By Abigail Chai, Center Spread Editor

• Somewhere in my Memory
  • Produced and written by composer John Williams for the iconic 1990 Christmas movie Home Alone, “Somewhere in my Memory” has become a musical staple to the holiday season. A personal favorite of Mills social sciences teacher Mr. Lira, he credits his adoration for the songs due to William’s beautiful craftsmanship. Simply stating “It’s John William,” in explaining why he treasures the song so much, it’s clear that the composer’s artistry is nothing less than festive amidst the holiday season. 
• It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas
  • Originally written by Meredith Wilson in 1951, Michael Buble’s 2011 rendition of the song is arguably one of the most played festive beats in the many days leading up to Christmas. Buble’s soothing voice instills a special  sense of comfort to listeners, which senior Andrew Lim said reminds him of “being indoors, cozy away from the cold.” Buble, who has received much acclaim for his many covers of Christmas classics,  is undoubtedly now an iconic figure to the holiday music scene. 

• Santa Can’t You Hear Me
  • Released just three years ago, the 2021 holiday duet between pop stars Ariana Grande and Kelly Clarkson is a modern Christmas ballad that is now enjoyed by thousands of fans across the world. Recommended by senior Stephy Li, she particularly enjoys the joyful melody and aesthetic of the song. Drawing comparisons to the colorful Christmas lights that she states “ makes everything magical” during the dark winter nights, she credits the song for inciting that same warm feeling. 
• Mistletoe
  • Like many of Justin Bieber’s hit songs, his 2011 track “Mistletoe” is nothing short of catchy and fun. Junior Kaylin Lam who cites the song as being a festive favorite enthusiastically said she loves it “because it’s Justin Bieber!” After listening to the song yourself, you’ll likely find yourself calling it a new favorite as well! 
• Santa Doesn’t Know You Like I Do
  • Another recent holiday hit, Sabrina Carpenter’s 2023 Christmas single is one of my favorite songs to listen to throughout the winter. I love the upbeat melody paired with Carpenter’s gentle voice, making for both a catchy and heartfelt beat. While not yet nearly as iconic as other songs such as “Last Christmas” by Wham! or “All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey, I can surely see it slowly rising to that level of fame one day.