20 Christmas Songs That Were Banned
Explore the fascinating stories behind 20 banned Christmas songs, proving that even holiday cheer isn't free from controversy.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 6 min read
Christmas songs are meant to spread joy, but some have faced bans due to surprising reasons like political disputes, cultural misunderstandings, or questionable lyrics. From innocent jingles to modern pop tracks, these tunes stirred enough controversy to find themselves off the airwaves or under strict scrutiny. This list dives into the stories of 20 banned Christmas songs, offering a mix of wit and heartfelt reflections on the unexpected clashes between holiday spirit and societal norms.
1. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” – Dean Martin
0m9Ep on Wikimedia Commons
Dean Martin’s smooth rendition of this classic duet faced bans for its suggestive lyrics, which critics claimed didn’t align with modern consent norms. Some saw it as flirtatious and playful, while others found it unsettling. The controversy reignited debates about art versus evolving cultural values.
2. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” – Band-Aid
Allan Patrick on Wikimedia Commons
Performed by a supergroup of British and Irish artists, this charity anthem was banned in certain regions for its patronizing lyrics about Africa. Critics argued the song oversimplified complex issues. Despite its bans, it remains a Christmas staple for its charitable impact.
3. “Fairytale of New York” – The Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl
Duloup on Wikimedia Commons
This raw and emotional duet was banned for using offensive slurs. Though beloved, some radio stations replaced the words to avoid offending listeners. Fans, however, argue that it captures the grittiness of a real Christmas experience.
4. “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” – Elmo & Patsy
PamWendell on Wikimedia Commons
Radio stations banned this humorous song about a holiday mishap because it was too dark and disrespectful. Critics felt it undermined the season’s warmth and cheer. Nonetheless, its quirky appeal keeps it alive in festive playlists.
5. “White Christmas” – Bing Crosby
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While adored in the West, this timeless classic faced bans in certain Middle Eastern countries for promoting Western holiday traditions. Its nostalgic lyrics were viewed as culturally irrelevant in those regions. Globally, it remains one of the best-selling songs of all time.
6. “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” – Nat King Cole
General Artists Corporation on Wikimedia Commons
In some countries, Nat King Cole’s warm rendition was temporarily banned during WWII because it was considered overly American. Its themes of family and heart were seen as cultural propaganda. However, it later regained its status as a beloved global classic.
7. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” – Jimmy Boyd
MGM on WIkimedia Commons
At just 13 years old, Jimmy Boyd’s recording was banned by some religious groups because it was too suggestive. Many felt it implied inappropriate behavior. Eventually, the playful misunderstanding was appreciated, and the ban was lifted.
8. “All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth” – Spike Jones and His City Slickers
Calliopejen1 on Wikimedia Commons
Spike Jones’ novelty tune was banned in schools for allegedly mocking children with missing teeth. Parents feared it and encouraged teasing. Over time, its whimsical charm won back listeners.
9. “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” – John Lennon and Yoko Ono
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This anti-war anthem was banned in several countries during wartime for its pacifist message. Governments saw it as a threat to morale. Over the years, it has become an enduring call for peace during the holidays.
10. “Santa Baby” – Eartha Kitt
Allan Warren on Wikimedia Commons
Eartha Kitt’s sultry performance faced backlash for being too risqué and materialistic. Some stations refused to play it, claiming it clashed with traditional holiday values. Despite this, it remains a festive favorite for many.
11. “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” – Vaughn Monroe
William P. Gottlieb on Wikimedia Commons
This jazzy winter tune was banned in some areas for promoting secular imagery over religious themes. Critics claimed it distracted from the spiritual meaning of Christmas. However, its timeless appeal continues to enchant listeners.
12. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” – Perry Como
NBC Television on Wikimedia Commons
Perry Como’s iconic version was banned in certain shopping malls for contributing to holiday fatigue. It was banned from some retail playlists in 2019 because its lyrics mention guns. Ironically, it remains a quintessential holiday song.
13. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” – Gene Autry
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Gene Autry’s cheerful recording was criticized and banned in some schools for promoting themes of bullying, racism, and homophobia. Others praised its message of overcoming adversity. Despite initial pushback, Rudolph became a beloved holiday icon.
14. “Jingle Bells” – James Pierpont
Mathias Reding on Pexels
While performed by countless artists, its original ties to minstrel shows led to bans in certain schools. Debates about its historical context overshadowed its cheerful melody. Today, it’s a ubiquitous symbol of festive joy.
15. “Blue Christmas” – Elvis Presley
Rossano aka Bud Care on Wikimedia Commons
Elvis’ melancholic rendition was banned at some events because it was “too sad” during the holidays. Organizers felt it clashed with the season’s upbeat vibe. Yet, fans adore its heartfelt portrayal of holiday loneliness.
16. “Frosty the Snowman” – Gene Autry
Joseph Kane on Wikimedia Commons
Gene Autry’s second appearance on this list comes with this cheerful tune banned for being too secular. Some religious groups felt it overshadowed Christmas traditions. Over time, Frosty’s friendly charm melted most critics’ objections.
17. “Last Christmas” – Wham!
Louise Palanker on Wikimedia Commons
This Wham! pop hit was banned in specific spaces for being overly romantic. Critics claimed it overshadowed themes of family and spirituality. Fans, however, embrace it to capture the bittersweet emotions of the season.
18. “Deck the Halls” – Various Artists
Colin Smith on Wikimedia Commons
This timeless carol was banned for its line, “Don we now our gay apparel?” which some audiences misinterpreted. Efforts to censor it sparked debates about evolving language meanings, but its festive spirit ultimately endured.
19. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” – Brenda Lee
Peter Denton on Wikimedia Commons
Brenda Lee’s upbeat classic was banned in formal settings because it was “too rowdy.” Critics believed it encouraged wild behavior. Fans, however, see it as a joyful anthem for holiday gatherings.
20. “Silent Night” – Various Artists
Simon Mannweiler on Wikimedia Commons
This serene hymn was banned in politically tense regions because it was “too religious.” Authorities feared it could escalate conflicts. Despite this, Silent Night remains a universal symbol of peace and hope.