Christmas is coming, and what better way to celebrate than with some music to get you in the spirit? While the classics are always a treat, there’s something special about finding new music that brings the story of Jesus to life in a new way.
This year, we’ve rounded up some brand new and truly inspiring religious Christmas songs that capture the warmth, wonder, and joy of the season. Here’s a look at eight new Christmas tunes from 2024 that will make perfect additions to your holiday playlist—whether you’re setting up the Nativity scene, hosting a family gathering, or just soaking up the beauty of Christmas!
1. Silent Night – Dan + Shay
A beautiful acapella, this rendition from the country duo is a versatile option for a variety of Christmas activities.
2. Emmanuel – Miel San Marcos
This canción de Navidad is guaranteed to boost your mood with its inspirational sound and powerful words.
3. Silent Night (Rewrapped) – for KING + COUNTRY
By now, for KING + COUNTRY has released enough Christmas tracks to practically make them the unofficial soundtrack of the season. Just kidding—but seriously, take some time to dive into their Advent and Christmas collection, all crafted with their signature cinematic style.
4. Go Tell It– Sunday Service Choir
The Sunday Service Choir’s rendition of Go Tell It brings a fresh, gospel-driven energy to this classic Christmas song. Their powerful harmonies and uplifting style make it impossible not to feel the joy of the season. If you’re looking for a track that captures the spirit of celebration, this one is a must-listen!
5. Do You Hear What I Hear? (LIVE) – for KING & COUNTRY
for KING & COUNTRY’s live performance of Do You Hear What I Hear? is a dynamic, emotionally charged take on this beloved classic. Again, their sweeping orchestration brings new life to the song.
6. Angels [Glory To God] – Phil Wickham
Phil Wickham’s Angels [Glory To God] combines his uplifting, contemporary worship style with a sweeping, celebratory sound, capturing the awe and wonder of Christ’s birth in a way that feels both modern and timeless. The worship artist has a new Christmas album, so make sure to check that out!
7. O Holy Night – Jennifer Hudson
Get ready to be blown away by Jennifer Hudson’s O Holy Night! We all love a classic, and this may be a new one, as it is reminiscent of other powerhouse versions by artists like Celine Dion and Josh Groban.
8. Joy to the World – Kirk Franklin
16-time Grammy winner gospel artist Kirk Franklin delivers this rendition of one of Joy to the World. This soulful track is perfect for any gathering, effortlessly setting the right mood in just about any setting.
9. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen – The Milk Carton Kids
The Milk Carton Kids’ album Christmas in A Minor Key is a must-listen this season. It’s best described as soulful folk collection featuring traditional Christian Christmas songs, reimagined with their signature harmonies and acoustic arrangements.
10. What Christmas Really Is – Thrive Worship
Thrive Worship’s What Christmas Really Is feels like a warm embrace of the true meaning of the season, combining heartfelt worship with timeless Christmas themes to remind us what this time of year is really all about.
11. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear – Sixpence None the Richer
Sixpence None the Richer’s It Came Upon a Midnight Clear is a heartfelt indie-pop song that reimagines the classic Christian Christmas carol with their signature ethereal sound. A great track to play on a chilly day indoors.
Additional Resources
We’ve got even more song recommendations for you this holiday season – check out our list of Advent songs.
Look out for other Advent and Christmas-themed posts and guides throughout the holiday season on our blog!
For even more great Catholic resources, check out our podcast, which features talks from our SEEK conference, and our YouTube channel for videos and more!
Sign up for SEEK25 next January in Washington, D.C., and Salt Lake City; registration is now open!