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1990s Western Christmas songs: from blockbuster hits to hidden gems

Just seeing the way the cityscape changes every December and the sparkling decorations lining the shops somehow puts you in a buoyant mood, doesn’t it?

And what you can’t skip during this season, of course, is Christmas songs!

For those looking for Christmas music as BGM for a holiday party or for the car, this article introduces Western Christmas songs from the 1990s—a decade that produced many hit tracks.

Rather than covers of so-called standards, we’ve mainly gathered original Christmas songs, so it’s a must-see for anyone who wants to create a Christmas atmosphere that’s a little different from the usual!

1990s Western Christmas songs: from massive hits to hidden gems (61–70)

Christmas IsRun-D.M.C.

Run-DMC are indispensable when talking about ’90s hip-hop.

In 1992, they wrote “Christmas Is” for the movie How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

While built around a Christmas theme, the song delivers a message about having a kind heart.

It’s nice how it retains their signature sharp, punchy phrasing while still feeling heartwarming.

The contrast between the powerful rap and the child’s narration is also interesting and adds a compelling dynamic.

Song For A Winter’s NightSarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan – Song For A Winter’s Night (Audio)
Song For A Winter's NightSarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan, a singer-songwriter beloved around the world for her “healing” voice, covered and released “Song for a Winter’s Night” in 2002.

The original version of this song was released in 1967 by Gordon Lightfoot, a Canadian folk singer.

It’s a soothing piece, with a beautiful melody and the warm sound of folk music.

Christmas Wrapping (The Waitresses Cover)Spice Girls

Introducing “Christmas Wrapping” from the 1981 Christmas-themed compilation album A Christmas Record.

Originally released by The Waitresses in 1981, the song was later covered by the British girl group the Spice Girls in 1998.

The latter version is livelier and delivers a more festive, Christmas-like vibe.

It’s also recommended if you enjoy songs with harmonies.

ChristmastimeThe Smashing Pumpkins

Smashing Pumpkins – Christmas Time (1997)
ChristmastimeThe Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins are a band that epitomized the American rock scene of the 1990s.

Their song “Christmas Time” is included on the classic ’90s Christmas compilation album A Very Special Christmas 3.

It’s a ballad that portrays children on Christmas Day.

The lyrics tenderly sing about the heartwarming sight of kids opening their presents in delight.

Written from an adult’s perspective, the song also conveys the depth of parental love, which is part of its appeal.

Christmas in Jamaica feat. ShaggyToni Braxton

Toni Braxton – Christmas in Jamaica (feat. Shaggy) [Audio]
Christmas in Jamaica feat. ShaggyToni Braxton

For us, Christmas is a winter event, isn’t it? Spending Christmas amid snowy scenery is the standard, but what about in Jamaica? Toni Braxton’s 2001 release “Christmas in Jamaica” is a cool track about spending the holidays there.

It’s a collaboration with Shaggy, the DJ often hailed as the king of reggae.

The song paints a picture of Christmas spent leisurely on a boat, rocking gently on the waves.

This ChristmasUsher

Usher – This Christmas (Legendado)
This ChristmasUsher

“This Christmas” is a song released by R&B singer Usher on November 23, 1993.

Usher’s version is a cover; the original was released in 1971 by American soul legend Donny Hathaway.

It’s a classic Christmas song that has been covered by many famous musicians besides Usher.

Even after all this time, it remains beloved in various arrangements.

Save The Best For LastVanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams – Save The Best For Last
Save The Best For LastVanessa Williams

It’s a classic from 1992.

If you watch the music video, you can tell it was definitely made for Christmas, so of course it fits perfectly.

If this song plays during a winter date, it would be irresistible.

Overseas, you hear it quite often, but in Japan, I feel like it still isn’t played much around town.