20 Holiday Songs That Almost Weren't Released
Discover 20 beloved holiday songs that nearly never made it to our playlists, from last-minute decisions to accidental hits.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Holiday songs are essential to the festive season, but some of the most iconic tunes almost didn’t see the light of day. These songs teetered on the edge of obscurity before becoming seasonal staples, whether due to studio skepticism, artists’ self-doubt, or sheer coincidence. Here are 20 incredible stories behind the holiday hits we almost missed out on—and what made them worth the gamble.
1. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby
Franklin D. Roosevelt on Wikimedia Commons
Bing Crosby’s iconic classic was almost shelved because the record label thought it was “too sad” for the holidays. Written during World War II, its nostalgic tone worried executives. Today, it’s the best-selling single of all time, proving bittersweet hits just right.
2. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey
Filipe Vicente on Wikimedia Commons
Mariah Carey herself thought releasing a Christmas song would harm her pop star image. It took some persuasion—and a dash of holiday magic—to record this track. It’s a yearly chart-topper, ringing cash registers and sleigh bells.
3. “Last Christmas” by Wham!
Louise Palanker on Wikimedia Commons
George Michael hesitated to release this sentimental tune, fearing it wouldn’t resonate with audiences. Plus, competition from charity singles made it a risky move. Instead, it became a timeless holiday heartbreak anthem.
4. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid
Daniel Hazard on Wikimedia Commons
This charity song almost didn’t happen due to logistical nightmares in gathering artists. With schedules clashing and doubts over its reception, the project seemed doomed. But it raised millions for famine relief, proving good causes triumph over chaos.
5. “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms
Little Darlin’ on Wikimedia Commons
Bobby Helms didn’t think this song would fit his rockabilly image and resisted recording it. Once he did, it got a lukewarm release—but listeners fell in love. It’s now a staple of every holiday party playlist.
6. “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano
DJ Buck on Wikimedia Commons
Feliciano worried the blend of Spanish and English wouldn’t appeal widely. His producers were unsure about releasing such a “niche” holiday tune. Little did they know it would unite people across cultures every December.
7. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee
Decca Records on Wikimedia Commons
At just 13 years old, Brenda Lee almost didn’t record this holiday hit because producers doubted her age and experience. Her voice, however, proved ageless. It’s now synonymous with tree-trimming traditions everywhere.
8. “Santa Baby” by Eartha Kitt
Jyh-Lurn Chang on Wikimedia Commons
Some executives thought this sultry take on Christmas was “too risqué” for the season. Eartha Kitt’s charm, however, won them over. The song has since become a cheeky holiday favorite.
9. “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney
Jim Summaria on Wikimedia Commons
McCartney almost scrapped this tune because it was written in a single day and felt “too simple.” Critics may agree, but fans adore its charming simplicity. It’s now a holiday earworm you can’t escape.
10. “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” by John Lennon and Yoko Ono
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This protest anthem faced controversy and resistance from radio stations. Lennon’s team doubted its place in holiday music history. Instead, it became a powerful seasonal reminder of peace.
11. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Frank Loesser
Angulimala841 on Wikimedia Commons
Originally written as a private duet for parties, this tune rarely left the living room. Friends convinced Loesser to share it with the world, and it went on to win an Oscar and spark endless debates.
12. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives
Mike89 on Wikimedia Commons
Ives was initially reluctant to record a Christmas song, considering it a career gamble. The song’s warm reception proved his instincts wrong. Today, it’s impossible to imagine the holidays without his jolly voice.
13. “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole
William P. Gottlieb on Wikimedia Commons
Nat King Cole’s producers believed this tune was “too slow” to catch on. Cole insisted on recording it, knowing its magic. His hunch was correct—it’s now a fireside classic.
14. “Silver Bells” by Bing Crosby and Carol Richards
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The song was considered “too urban” and didn’t capture the traditional holiday feel. Its relatable charm eventually struck a chord with listeners. Now, it’s a snowy cityscape soundtrack.
15. “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” by Vaughn Monroe
Ortreat on Wikimedia Commons
This song almost didn’t make it because its lyrics never mentioned Christmas directly. However, its cozy winter vibes won fans over, proving that you don’t need tinsel to sparkle.
16. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” by Darlene Love
Wes Washington on Wikimedia Commons
This emotional tune was challenged by upbeat tracks on the same album. Producers almost removed it from the final lineup. Thankfully, Love’s powerhouse vocals carried it to holiday fame.
17. “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” by Bing Crosby
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Crosby’s team worried this wartime ballad would be “too heavy” for listeners. However, it was exactly what people needed during difficult times, and its heartfelt message continues to resonate.
18. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Judy Garland
Eric Carpenter on Wikimedia Commons
The original lyrics were so somber that Garland refused to sing them. After a rewrite, the song became a bittersweet masterpiece. Today, it’s a comforting seasonal hug in musical form.
19. “Carol of the Bells” by Mykola Leontovych
Boguslavmandzyuk on Wikimedia Commons
This Ukrainian composition nearly faded into obscurity after its debut. It took a choir director’s bold choice to revive it for the holidays. Now, its haunting melody rings out worldwide.
20. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams
NBC on Wikimedia Commons
Studio executives doubted this song’s appeal among younger audiences. Williams’ enthusiasm convinced them to give it a chance. It’s now one of the most festive anthems of the season.