#United States #New York #ASCAP #Holiday Songs #Kelly Clarkson

ASCAP Unveils Top Holiday Songs of 2024

As the festive season approaches, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has released its eagerly awaited list of the top holiday songs for 2024. This year, both new hits and timeless classics are celebrated, bringing joy to music lovers everywhere.

For the second consecutive year, Kelly Clarkson's heartwarming track "Underneath the Tree", co-written with renowned hitmaker Greg Kurstin, claims the number one spot on the ASCAP New Classic Holiday Songs chart. This song, which has become a staple during the holiday season since its release in 2013, captures the spirit of family and celebration.

Joining Clarkson on the New Classic Holiday Songs chart are luminaries like Katy Perry. Her charming "Cozy Little Christmas" and Justin Bieber's beloved "Mistletoe", both of which continue to resonate well with listeners, further solidify their places in seasonal playlists. Notably, Laufey's enchanting "Christmas Magic", fresh for 2024, has charmed its way into the hearts of many, adding a touch of modern flair to the traditional holiday soundscape.

Additionally, ASCAP's Top 25 Holiday Songs chart highlights traditional favorites. Topping this list is the classic "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Broadway composer Meredith Willson, which emphasizes the nostalgic feel of the season. Another timeless favorite, "All I Want for Christmas Is You" by Mariah Carey, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, demonstrating its enduring appeal by landing at a notable #8.

These rankings not only showcase new talent but also honor legendary figures in holiday music. Johnny Marks, a prolific songwriter from the mid-20th century, has solidified his legacy with multiple songs in the Top 25, including "A Holly Jolly Christmas", "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer", and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree". The enduring popularity of these titles speaks to Marks' exceptional ability to capture the essence of the holidays, as many contemporary artists cover his work.

The ASCAP charts reflect both innovation and nostalgia, striking a balance that appeals to diverse audiences. The top 10 New Classic Holiday Songs for 2024 include:

1. "Underneath the Tree" by Kelly Clarkson and Greg Kurstin (2013)
2. "Santa Tell Me" by Savan Kotecha and Ilya Salmanzadeh (2013)
3. "Snowman" by Greg Kurstin and Sia (2017)
4. "Mistletoe" by Justin Bieber and Adam Messinger (2011)
5. "Like It's Christmas" by Gian Stone (2019)
6. "Cozy Little Christmas" by Ferras Alqaisi, Katy Perry, and Greg Wells (2018)
7. "Santa, Can't You Hear Me" by Kelly Clarkson (2021)
8. "Believe" by Glen Ballard (2004)
9. "Christmas Magic" by Laufey (2024)
10. "Oh Santa!" by Mariah Carey and Jermaine Dupri (2010)

Meanwhile, the Top 25 ASCAP Holiday Songs of 2024 includes beloved classics such as:
1. "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Meredith Willson (1951)
2. "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson and Mitchell Parish (1948)
3. "Jingle Bell Rock" by Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe (1958)
4. "A Holly Jolly Christmas" by Johnny Marks (1962)
5. "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" by Johnny Marks (1958)
...and many more timeless tunes.

With this release, ASCAP not only provides a soundtrack for the holidays but also continues to advocate for the rights of songwriters and composers, ensuring they receive the credit and compensation they deserve for their contributions to the music industry and our cultural landscape.

For those eager to discover these festive hits, be sure to check out the full lists on ASCAP’s official sites and enjoy the music that makes the holiday season truly special!