In the 1950s and 1960s, popular music was rapidly changing. A new sound emerged that united youth and frustrated older generations.
This, of course, was rock 'n' roll. As the genre grew, rock 'n' roll stars began to record their own versions of Christmas standards as well as introduced some new tracks.
These innovative songs would become classics. Here are some of the most iconic Christmas rock songs of a bygone era.
Eight best Christmas classic rock songs
8. "Little St. Nick" - The Beach Boys
In the early 1960s, the California surf sound was becoming a major trend in rock 'n' roll. Perhaps the most iconic artist of this style was The Beach Boys. Between 1963 and 1964, they recorded a Christmas album composed of standards as well as a couple originals. "Little St. Nick", one of their contributions, became a major hit. A catchy, pop rock song, it's still beloved by the young and old today.
7. "Run Rudolph Run" - Chuck Berry
Let's give credit where's it due. Chuck Berry was one of the most important founding fathers of rock 'n' roll. He was responsible for songs such as "Johnny B. Goode," which interestingly was the only rock song featured on the Voyager Golden Record, sent into space to preserve the sounds of the Earth and human life. In 1958, Berry released "Run Rudolph Run," a rock 'n' roll Christmas standard. Definitely one of the best classic rock 'n' roll has to offer.
6. "Blue Christmas" - Elvis Presley
I'm a die-hard Elvis fan and he's contributed a lot to the Christmas canon. That's why you'll see three of his songs on this list. With this being said, they can't all be the top three. That'd be biased. As iconic as "Blue Christmas" is, it's my least favorite of the mentioned songs. It's a great song, and I do enjoy listening to it every year; I just feel there are lesser-known songs that deserve more. Don't get me wrong, "Blue Christmas" is the epitome of the Christmas rock 'n' roll sound.
5. "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" - Bruce Springsteen
Yes, "Santa Claus is Comin' To Town" is a standard and the Boss only covered it. However, his version is absolutely amazing!! My favorite rendition of it for sure. Springsteen adds his magic to the legendary song, with the talents of Clarence Clemons and other E Street Band members. You can feel the waves of the Jersey Shore listening to "Santa Claus is Comin' To Town" and it takes you to a different place and time. My Christmas playlist will always include this one. Can't do the season without it.
4. "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" - Brenda Lee
In the 1950s, Brenda Lee was a young country and pop prodigy. She had many hits during her early career, but, for many, she will always be remembered for "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree." Released in 1958, she was only 13. This timeless song is always played year after year and has reached many generations. It's catchy, her vocals are top-notch, especially for a kid, and it's pure fun.
3. "Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)" - Elvis Presley
Time to reveal the 2nd Elvis song! "Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)" is essential Elvis and rock 'n' roll Christmas. It's a prime example of how rock and holiday music mixed. Probably not a favorite of Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby fans, it certainly became a hit for American kids and teenagers. I love listening to it every year. It's upbeat and very much an early Elvis song. How can you go wrong?
2. "Santa Claus is Back in Town" - Elvis Presley
Back to back, yes, I know. Another original from Elvis's 1957 Christmas album, "Santa Claus is Back in Town" is a banger. Akin to songs like "All Shook Up" and "Don't Be Cruel," it's pure rock. Just about Santa and the season. Elvis's rebellious personality shines and this is one song parents probably hated. It was time for a change in the country, where individualism thrives, and tradition takes a back seat. Elvis and other rock 'n' roll pioneers helped shape a cultural shift that gave the youth a powerful voice. This is perhaps one of the most rock 'n' roll songs ever and it happens to be a Christmas tune.
1. "Jingle Bell Rock" - Bobby Helms
Similar to Brenda Lee, Bobby Helms became a star in country music. Also like Lee, he is best known for a Christmas rock 'n' roll classic. His iconic "Jingle Bell Rock" was released in 1957 and has been covered by dozens of artists since (including Lee). One of the most popular Christmas songs of all time, Helms created an incredible legacy for himself. This song is quintessential 1950s, rock 'n' roll, and Christmas all at the same time. It's only fitting that it's number one. Sorry, Elvis!