25 festive pop songs perfect for your holiday playlist

“Mistletoe” – Justin Bieber

If you’re going for full pop domination, you need to at least dip your toes in the Christmas waters once. It was Justin Bieber’s turn in 2011 when he released his Christmas album Under the Mistletoe, featuring the single “Mistletoe.” The album was an all-star affair, featuring artists like Mariah Carey (duh), Usher, Boyz II Men, and The Band Perry.

Focusing on the album’s lead single, “Mistletoe” was an original track co-written by Bieber that had a pop-R&B sound, featuring some reggae-esque elements which many people compared to Jason Mraz. Bieber is singing to his “shawty” about wanting to spend the holidays spreading cheer with her. It hits all the Christmas song points, with references to “the most beautiful time of the year,” chestnuts roasting, Santa Claus and his reindeer, and of course, the mistletoe.

Bieber was only 16 at the time, so the song still has that wholesome teen vibe, much like Britney’s “My Only Wish (This Year).” The holidays are a time of nostalgia, and this song will definitely bring back memories of your younger days, enjoying the holiday season with your high school bae or your best friends. You immediately get that Christmas feeling, but it could also work as a regular song, which is important when you’re putting out an original Christmas track.