Fairytale of New York named as the UK’s favourite Christmas song

People in the UK are most likely to pop the tunes on as soundtrack for chores, with over half (53%) playing Christmas music when wrapping gifts, followed by doing home tasks (48%) and when cooking (45%).  

Many also like to get a playlist going when they drive (39%) and when opening presents on the big day (35%). 

However, it seems that Christmas music isn’t the chosen genre when people are looking for motivational music when exercising, with only 10% of respondents saying they enjoy having a festive soundtrack as they hit the gym. 

So, why do we love Christmas music so much? Music therapist, Marianne Rizkallah, explains:

“Christmas music takes us to a place that’s not just happier but more carefree. There are lots of ceremonies and individual or family traditions at Christmas, which Christmas music is often a big part of (Carols from Kings, Christmas parties), emphasising togetherness and good times with loved ones. 

“If we have good associations of the Christmas season then Christmas music can act as a helpful psychological cue to get us into the festive spirit. Music’s effect on our limbic system (which deals with our emotions) means that, if our associations are good, we are prompted to feel warmer, more relaxed, and lighter in mood, which is always good in the darker and colder months. 

“The building blocks of a festive hit are percussion, sleigh bells, “ding dong” bell effects, and hand chimes to create the shimmering snowfall effect that you hear in many of the most notable Christmas songs. Many are light and upbeat in nature and (most of the time) an overwhelm of jolly, positive lyrics is noticeable.”