Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree: Heavy on the Rock.
Sick of the same, tired holiday music blasting through the supermarket speakers or your mom’s Alexa while she’s getting the ham ready for Christmas dinner? This playlist is sure to push Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman into the pit, blending alt-rock, pop-punk, and emo takes on the season.
From Taylor Momsen reclaiming her legendary Cindy Lou Who moment with The Pretty Reckless to My Chemical Romance’s rock opera spin on a Mariah Carey classic, these 10 tracks are sure to spread a little extra cheer, and eyeliner, on Christmas.
“All I Want for Christmas is You” by My Chemical Romance
It’s tiiiiiiiime! My Chemical Romance takes the quintessential Christmas song and transforms it into a full-blown emotional emergency, because of course they do. Festive longing becomes urgent emo angst, leaving you to wonder if Christmas might actually end you this year.
“Happy Holidays, You Bastard” by blink-182
Not exactly one for the family gathering… this one’s best saved for your own sleigh. Fast, abrasive, and proudly inappropriate, blink-182 delivers peak pop-punk chaos that is sure to send grandpa and grandma into utter shock. Play this holiday hit with caution.
“Where Are You Christmas?” by The Pretty Reckless
Taylor Momsen revisits the role that defined her childhood, and no, I’m not talking about Jenny Humphrey in Gossip Girl. Momsen trades the sweetness of Cindy Lou Who for a heavy, gritty cinematic rock anthem.
“Santa Stole My Girlfriend” by The Maine
If you’ve ever felt a bubbling, deeply personal grudge against Santa Claus, this one’s for you. He kissed your mom and your girlfriend? Unforgivable. Santa is cancelled. #SantaClausIsOverParty, get it trending.
“Last Christmas” by Poppy
Poppy takes the sugar cookie nostalgia of the Wham! classic and throws it into the freezer, coating it in icy, industrial beats. Heartbreak is reimagined as a robotic holiday nightmare. Are we dancing or questioning humanity? ¿Por qué no los dos?
“Christmas Saves The Year” by Twenty One Pilots
Sometimes, just making it through the season is the real Christmas miracle. Twenty One Pilots deliver a quieter, more reflective holiday track that trades tinsel and tradition for connection and resilience. It’s less ugly sweaters and more about taking a deep exhale.
“Xmas Time of the Year” by Green Day
Another take that’s a little less tongue-in-cheek: Green Day keeps it simple, loud, and in-your-face, serving up a pure punk spin on holiday cheer. Brash, unapologetic, and full of energy – this is Christmas the Green Day way.
“Jingle Bell Rock” by MisterWives
Talk about a one-horse slay. MisterWives catapults this classic into the 21st century, turning “Jingle Bell Rock” into a sparkling sing-along that practically forces you to dance… even if you’re still trapped in your matching holiday pajamas. Come on, they aren’t THAT bad.
“Just Like Christmas” by Silversun Pickups
Hazy guitars, shimmering melodies, and frosty winter textures give this track the perfect December nostalgia. Stare out the window at falling snow and reminisce on every magical, chaotic, or downright awkward Christmas from your past.
“Groovy Xmas” by The Linda Lindas
One last reminder that Christmas isn’t completely terrible. The cat attacking the water bowl under the tree, grandma smearing lipstick on your cheek – okay, maybe there are a few genuinely wholesome moments. This short, scrappy holiday jam wraps things up on a high note.
Unless, of course, the playlist starts over again. Then…good luck. Happy Holidays from Off The Record!
