Ah, Christmas! The season of joy, togetherness, and—let's not forget—fantastic, sometimes unashamedly cheesy, music. Every year, the UK Christmas charts feature a slew of festive hits, but not every beloved tune gets to snag that coveted number one spot. This listicle dives into the cherished Christmas songs that peaked at number two in the UK Christmas Day charts, alongside the tracks that kept them from the top. We think that some of the best Christmas songs ever, are found at that number two spot! So grab a cup of hot cocoa, cosy up by the fire, and let’s celebrate these nearly-there holiday classics, in no particular order!
1. Last Christmas by Wham! (1984)
- Kept off the top spot by: Do They Know It's Christmas? by Band Aid
Despite missing out on the number one spot first time around, Last Christmas has become a holiday staple and continues to resonate with listeners every year, even spawning the "last man standing" #Whamageddon game with the aim to make it as far into December as possible without hearing this George & Andrew classic.
Last Christmas finally reached the top spot in Christmas 2020
2. I Believe in Father Christmas by Greg Lake (1984)
- Kept off the top spot by: Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
A poignant holiday song that blends a sense of nostalgia with a critical reflection on the commercialisation of Christmas. The song's haunting melody, combined with its evocative lyrics, captures the bittersweet emotions often associated with the holiday season. Lake's powerful vocals convey a longing for the innocence and wonder of childhood Christmases, while also questioning the loss of genuine festive spirit in the modern world. The orchestral arrangement, featuring a memorable riff inspired by Prokofiev's "Lieutenant Kijé Suite," adds a timeless and majestic quality to the track, making it a thought-provoking staple of holiday music.
3. Fairytale of New York by The Pogues feat. Kirsty MacColl (1987)
- Kept off the top spot by: Always On My Mind by Pet Shop Boys
With its raw emotion and storytelling, framed against the usual sentimentality of many Christmas songs, it's often regarded as one of the greatest Christmas songs of all time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of love, regret, and redemption, while the iconic melody and heartfelt performances make it a timeless anthem that resonates with listeners year after year. Despite its melancholic undertones, "Fairytale of New York" remains a festive favourite, celebrated for its authenticity and emotional depth. Some lyrics have provoked some criticism and editing in later years, however one of the mainly heard criticisms of the song is that it can be considered "overplayed" - a testament to its popularity.
4 All I Want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey (1994)
- Kept off the top spot by: Stay Another Day by East 17
A modern holiday classic that has become synonymous with the festive season. With its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Mariah Carey's powerful vocals, the song captures the joy and excitement of Christmas. The lyrics express a heartfelt desire for love and companionship over material gifts, resonating with listeners who cherish the emotional connections of the holiday. The song's timeless appeal and infectious energy have made it a perennial favourite, topping charts and filling homes with holiday cheer year after year. Its enduring popularity cements it as a staple of Christmas playlists around the world.
20 years later, the song had a second crack at the chart in 2007 but could only peak at number 4 the second time around, and dropping to number 6 in the 2007 Christmas Day chart (another re-released favourite, Fairytale of New York came in at number 4 that year)
5. Christmas Time (Don’t Let the Bells End) by The Darkness (2003)
- Kept off the top spot by: Mad World by Michael Andrews feat. Gary Jules
This modern classic is known for its glam rock sound and catchy hooks echoing the 1970's era of Christmas Classics. The song features soaring vocals, catchy guitar riffs, and a playful blend of humour and nostalgia. Its lyrics capture the excitement and bittersweet moments of the holiday season, with a focus on the desire to keep the festive spirit alive. The track's energetic and theatrical sound, complete with sleigh bells and a children's choir, makes it a standout addition to any Christmas playlist. The Darkness delivers a unique and memorable holiday tune that celebrates the joy and whimsy of Christmas with a rock 'n' roll twist - together with more than a couple of double-entendres dropped in that are missed by many (we hope we haven't spoiled it for you now!)
Other Honourable Mentions
There are so many Christmas favourites that didn't make either of the top two chart spots, some of them are such staples of the festive party season it's hard to imagine how they didn't become Christmas chart-toppers!
Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney (1979)
- Christmas Chart Position: Number 7
- Christmas Number One: Another Brick in the Wall by Pink Floyd
Even though McCartney's song didn’t clinch the top spot, it remains one of the most recognizable holiday tunes. With its catchy synth melody and McCartney's warm vocals, the track evokes a sense of festive nostalgia and celebration. The lyrics convey a straightforward message of enjoying the company of loved ones and the magic of Christmastime. Its light-hearted and whimsical sound has made it a staple of holiday playlists, bringing a sense of warmth and merriment to listeners. McCartney's ability to blend pop sensibilities with holiday cheer ensures that "Wonderful Christmastime" remains a beloved classic, spreading joy and festive spirit year after year.
Step Into Christmas by Elton John (1973)
- Christmas Chart Position: Number 26
- Christmas Number One: Merry Xmas Everybody by Slade
It's hard to believe that this foot-stomping festive favourite didn't make the top 20 for its original release. A vibrant and energetic holiday anthem that invites listeners to embrace the festive spirit. With its upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and Elton John's signature piano-driven rock style, the song captures the excitement and joy of the Christmas season. The lyrics celebrate the warmth and togetherness of the holidays, encouraging everyone to join in the festivities. The track's lively and cheerful sound, combined with its nostalgic charm, makes it a perennial favourite during the yuletide season. "Step Into Christmas" continues to spread joy and holiday cheer, inviting listeners to celebrate the magic of Christmas with open hearts.
Happy Xmas (War Is Over) by John Lennon & Yoko Ono (1972)
- Chart Position: Number 4
- Christmas Number One: Long Haired Lover from Liverpool by Jimmy Osmond
This song intertwines Christmas cheer with a poignant social message that doubles as a powerful message for peace. The song combines a gentle, melodic arrangement with heartfelt lyrics that reflect on the state of the world and the desire for harmony. The song encourages listeners to reflect on the past year and embrace the possibility of a better future. Its timeless message of peace and unity, wrapped in the spirit of Christmas, has made it an enduring classic that resonates with audiences around the world, reminding us of the power of hope and collective action.
It also reached number 4 for a second time featuring the Harlem Community Choir following Lennon's death in 1980.
I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day by Wizzard (1973)
- Chart Position: Number 4
- Christmas Number One: Merry Xmas Everybody by Slade
This festive and exuberant holiday classic captures the joy and excitement of the Christmas season. With its upbeat tempo, rich instrumentation, and Roy Wood's distinctive vocals, the song creates a sense of celebration and nostalgia. The lyrics express a whimsical desire for the magic of Christmas to last all year round, resonating with anyone who cherishes the holiday spirit. The track's lively brass section, sleigh bells, and children's choir add to its festive charm, making it a perennial favourite that brings cheer and warmth to holiday gatherings. Its infectious energy and joyful message continue to make it a beloved staple of Christmas playlists.
Stop the Cavalry by Jona Lewie (1980)
- Chart Position: Number 3
- Christmas Number One: There's No-one Quite Like Grandma by the St Winifred's School Choir
The lyrics tell the story of a soldier wishing for an end to war so he can return to his loved ones, capturing a universal desire for peace and togetherness. Its blend of festive elements and thoughtful commentary has cemented "Stop the Cavalry" as a timeless classic that resonates with listeners during the holiday season.
The song's distinctive brass band arrangement and Lewie's understated vocals create a memorable and reflective tune. While not originally intended as a Christmas song, its themes of longing for peace and the mention of being home for Christmas have made it a seasonal favourite.
Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy by David Bowie & Bing Crosby (1982)
- Chart Position: Number 3
- Christmas Number One: Save Your Love by Renee and Renato
This duet combines the traditional Christmas carol "Little Drummer Boy" with the newly written "Peace on Earth" counterpoint, creating a beautiful and unexpected collaboration. Recorded for Crosby's 1977 television special, and released posthumously in 1982, the song showcases Bowie's smooth, contemporary voice alongside Crosby's classic, warm baritone. The juxtaposition of their voices and the melding of the two songs convey a powerful message of peace and goodwill. This unlikely pairing has become an enduring holiday favourite, celebrated for its timeless appeal and the touching harmony between two iconic artists from different musical eras.
Walking In The Air by Aled Jones (1985)
- Chart Position: Number 5
- Christmas Number One: Merry Christmas Everyone by Shakin' Stevens
Originally featured in the animated film "The Snowman," this hauntingly beautiful song captures the ethereal experience of a young boy flying through the night sky with a snowman. Aled Jones' angelic and pure vocals bring a sense of wonder and innocence to the piece, perfectly complementing the song's dreamy orchestration. The melody, composed by Howard Blake, evokes a sense of enchantment and nostalgia, making it a beloved classic that continues to captivate audiences. Its timeless charm and association with the enchanting story of "The Snowman" ensure that "Walking in the Air" remains a cherished part of Christmas traditions.
