5 Punk Christmas songs you have probably never heard
The most wonderful time of the year? Most people who shop retail anytime between Thanksgiving and Christmas will undoubtedly be bombarded by Michael Bublé, Mariah Carey and Pentatonix as these seasonal artists emerge from hibernation to dominate the airwaves. This year, listeners can break through the status quo with five punk rock Christmas songs.
December 22, 2020
“I Won’t Be Home for Christmas” – Blink-182
For those who have grown weary of the same Christmas tunes, consider this cult classic. Originally recorded in 2001, this pop punk masterpiece will give you a break from the overplayed carols and bring something completely new to your playlist. The song tells a humorous story of a man who is at his wits end with the holiday season and decides to take his frustration out on some unsuspecting Christmas carolers singing on his doorstep. Because of this, he celebrates the remainder of the night in a jail cell with his new inmate acquaintances.
“Yule Shoot Your Eye Out” – Fall Out Boy
Who says punk can’t be played acoustic? If you aren’t into screaming guitars or aggressive drumming, this song may be a great and festive option just in time for the holiday season. Complete with whining vocals and somber lyrics to stay true to the punk genre, this Fall Out Boy hit will surely have you reaching for both the mulled wine and a box of tissues. Patrick Stump, lead vocalist for the group, will undoubtedly make you feel nostalgic as his sappy lines remind you of adolescent heartache and teenage angst, all while sleigh bells delicately chime in the background.
“I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” – Bowling For Soup
For those who enjoy the traditional song but are looking for an alternative version, look no further than Bowling For Soup. Don’t let the silly band name fool you, these guys have been in the punk scene since 1994. Though this track does not deviate from the original lyrics, the band ditched the pianos and orchestra and instead turned their amps up to 11 to record this cover. If a punk Christmas rendition still is not sufficient, fret not. This version features an ear splitting guitar solo by ’80s rocker and virtuoso Paul Gilbert. Punk meets metal meets Christmas. Need I say more?
“12 Days of Pop-Punk Christmas” – Jarrod Alonge
Another classic, this time with a twist. Jarrod Alonge, YouTube comedian, managed to pull off a rendition of this well known Christmas song that keeps the original’s spirit and adds a contemporary punk flair. Instead of counting down monotonous gifts such as French hens, maids a-milking and lords a-leaping, this version substitutes those for what pop punk kids really desire: skinny khakis, peace teas, anchor tattoos and five large pizzas. With its heavy licks and catchy lyrics, this version has the potential to make even your grandmother start wearing Vans and snapback hats.
“Angels We Have Heard on High” – Relient K
At the top of our list we have the famous Christian rockers with their rendition of this traditional hymn. Though the song has been enhanced with distorted guitars and a faster tempo, this version may act as the perfect getaway song in order to transition into the genre. The band stays true to the lyrics and original melody and does not go overboard in their interpretation. You will not hear any obnoxious guitar solos or whiny vocals. Instead you will experience the Nativity story in a way you have never heard before. Surely this cover will inspire you to put up your tree and decorate your front yard with twinkling lights, snowmen cutouts and plenty of plastic reindeer.