Billboard Holiday 100 Chart

The Billboard Holiday 100 chart is a seasonal ranking that showcases the most popular holiday songs based on a combination of airplay, digital sales, and streaming data. Launched in 2013, it has quickly become a significant part of the holiday music landscape, reflecting both classic and contemporary hits.

Historical Context

Before the Holiday 100, Billboard had been tracking holiday music in various forms since the late 1950s. The first dedicated chart for Christmas music was introduced in 1958. Over the years, as music consumption evolved, so did the charts. The Holiday 100 was created to provide a comprehensive view of holiday music’s popularity, allowing older classics to compete alongside new releases.

Dominant Artists and Songs

Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is the most iconic song on the Holiday 100, having topped the chart for a staggering 58 weeks since its inception. This modern classic, released in 1994, has become synonymous with the holiday season, regularly dominating both the Holiday 100 and the Billboard Hot 100 during the festive period. Other notable artists who have made significant impacts on the chart include:

• Brenda Lee: Her timeless hit “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” has seen a resurgence, reaching the No. 1 spot in 2023 after decades of popularity.
• Bobby Helms: Known for “Jingle Bell Rock,” which remains a staple of holiday playlists.
• Pentatonix: This a cappella group has made a name for itself with multiple entries, including “Little Drummer Boy” and “Mary, Did You Know?”
• Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande: Both artists have contributed contemporary holiday tracks that have resonated with younger audiences, such as “Mistletoe” and “Santa Tell Me,” respectively.

The Impact of Streaming

The rise of streaming services has significantly influenced the Holiday 100. Since the incorporation of streaming data into the charting formula in 2012, holiday songs have enjoyed increased visibility and accessibility. Popular playlists on platforms like Spotify have propelled older classics back into the spotlight, allowing them to compete with newer tracks each holiday season.

The Billboard Holiday 100 chart not only reflects the changing landscape of holiday music but also highlights the enduring appeal of classic songs alongside contemporary favorites. As artists continue to release new holiday music, the chart will likely evolve, showcasing the diverse sounds that define the festive season.

Billboard Hot 100

The Billboard Holiday100 chart is updated weekly. View the chart.