Music Around The Globe
December 12, 2025
Designed by Nareh Nersisian
It’s officially the end of the year, which means three things: Love Actually and The Holiday are being rewatched for the 100th time, Mulled Wine and Bailey’s Hot Chocolates are back in action, and Mariah Carey has fully defrosted. While I’m never one to deny Miss Mariah her #1, I couldn’t help but wonder–am I missing out on glorious Christmas music from around the world?
I love the holiday season and the coziness it brings, after all, there needs to be something to look forward to during these darker months. Christmas music is one aspect that we all can enjoy - even if you, like me, don’t celebrate Christmas. The world is rich with traditions and cultures, so what better opportunity to learn more about each other, than the season of merriment and joy?
Having said that, here is a list of Christmas songs from around the world, some of which you’ve probably never heard of before:
This Beninese version of “O Holy Night,” performed by five-time Grammy Award-winning artist Angélique Kidjo, is an absolute delight and brings a breath of fresh air to this classic Christmas carol.
Of course I couldn’t compile a list of beautiful Christmas music and not include Mariah Carey in it at all! It is my pleasure to introduce my favourite MC Christmas song, an underrated love ballad which features a myriad of iconic riffs, runs, and a healthy dose of heartbreak.
If there is one thing one can always rely on Brazil to bring, it’s good vibes and a rhythm you can swing your hips to. Lucky for us, this is also present in this beautiful Christmas song by Samba giant Martinho da Vila. Grab your loved ones and two-step to this tropical feel-good song wishing for Santa Claus to bring peace to our hearts and tact when it comes to dealing with lovers (what a thoughtful wish).
Now, many more traditional carols are immensely popular in Germany, such as Stille Nacht and O Tannenbaum, but do you know what else this country is known for? Techno music! This remix specifically uses a song from “3 Haselnüsse für Aschenbrödel,” which is a cult classic Christmas movie and is guaranteed to be watched by millions of Germans during the festive period.
South Africa is known for its beautiful gospels and choir arrangements and this performance by gospel group Joyous Celebration is no exception! Check out this group of angelic voices.
This Latin classic is beloved by Argentinians and Spanish speakers beyond. The late Luis Aguilé was best known for his melancholic Christmas hit, which has since also been covered by Lucero and Verónica Castro.
It is safe to say that K-Pop has reached new levels of world domination and is widely listened to by fans from all over, giving a generous selection of seasonal music. Dear Santa by the girl group Girls’ Generation is a special one, as in a bid to support music education for underprivileged children in Asia, the group donated a part of the album’s sales profits to ‘SMile for U’, an ongoing campaign between UNICEF and SM Entertainment!
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