It’s that time again! The trees are out; the ornaments are hanging; and best of all, Mariah Carey is defrosting! It seems as though Christmas songs can never go wrong, always putting you in a jolly mood, but why? The same songs are on repeat time and time again, yet we never seem to get tired of them. Let’s see what Arcadia High School’s (AHS) students’ favorite Christmas songs are and why, but first let’s talk about what makes Christmas songs so good.
To begin with, nostalgia plays a huge role in winning the hearts of music enthusiasts. The catchy tunes, paired with the feel-good factor of the Christmas atmosphere, make the songs timeless. There’s something about that Christmas spirit that you can almost feel in the air, and this definitely has made its way into the songs. On top of all these other factors, Christmas is tied to happy memories, fun with family and friends, and sentimental feelings. While listening to Christmas music, it is no surprise that these nostalgic memories insert themselves into the picture.
Another huge reason why people enjoy holiday music is because Christmas only comes once a year. While yes, technically you can celebrate Christmas every day, the huge celebrations are certainly not the norm. As the holly-jolly holiday only makes an appearance for a fraction of the year, of course it is going to feel special. Who would want to miss Christmas? Subsequently, this means that Christmas music only plays at this time. Pair that with upbeat tunes and even happier memories, and that is undoubtedly a recipe for success, as people can’t miss out on the annual celebration.
With all sorts of hit songs over the years, what are students’ favorite songs of the festive season?
“Definitely ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You,’” said sophomore Sean Lee. “It’s partly the song, but it’s also because I remember [the song] from when I was younger. It brings back memories so I’d have to say that.”
“If I had to choose, I would say ‘It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas,’” said sophomore Austin Lam. “I picture Christmas as snowy and festive, and since L.A. has no snow, it kind of paints a better image of what I envision Christmas as. I also remember that song from when I was younger so it kind of has a place in my heart.”
A common theme with these Christmas carols are tradition and a homey feeling.
“That’s honestly my favorite part of them,” said sophomore Steven Xie.
Xie mentioned how the songs would always calm him and remind of his childhood, fostering a sense of happiness. As a youth, he played “Joy to the World” on his trumpet.
“I really like ‘Joy to the World’ not just because of the catchy melody, but also because it means something to me symbolically. It sort of transports me to a simpler time when I was younger and didn’t have to worry about anything,” said Xie. “I guess I associate the song with happy memories, so that’s why I would say ‘Joy to the World.’”
Sophomore Christopher Chu also had a difficult time selecting his favorite Christmas song.
“I’d have to say ‘Ode to Joy,’ but it is very close. I used to play it when I was younger [on the cello], so I’d have to give it a slight edge over other songs,” Chu said. “I don’t want to take anything away from the other popular classical music Christmas songs; I think they’re all great.”
Clearly, AHS students associate their favorite Christmas songs with happy memories. It is evident that this plays a huge part in the selection of their favorite songs. As for the holiday season, music definitely plays a crucial role in the festivity and overall aura of the celebrations. So in summary, Christmas songs, while catchy, are much more than a song; they are a time machine to hearken to happier times.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH.COM.
