Indie Grooves for Xmas Moves: Indie Xmas Playlist

So, what does a song need to get you into Xmas moves? Or, better yet, what does a song need to be included in an indie Xmas playlist? Well, to start, it needs to mention “Santa Claus,” “snow,” and, obviously, “Xmas” at some point. Any other element after that has changed throughout the years. We might feel it’s more like that time of the year if we walk into a coffee shop and hear Sarah Mclachlan’s angelic voice rather than a sleigh bell sound.

Since we each experience this time of year differently, very much like music, we’ve put together a playlist that will surely cover every festive taste. Get ready for Indiemono’s Indie Xmas Playlist 2023.

Indie Xmas Playlist 2023

From iconic song covers to indie original talent, we’ve handpicked 5 songs that’ll help set that Xmas mood to a family get-together, an 8-hour drive back home, or an 8-hour bath to recharge batteries! Hey, it’s your moment to sleigh.

“Santa Baby” by Wolf Alice

First up, we chose “Santa Baby” as that iconic Christmas song cover that was written by Joan Javits and Philip Springer and originally recorded by Eartha Kitt. The lyrics we’ve all come to learn, and possibly subconsciously, are by Tony Springer:

Santa baby, just slip a Sable under the tree for me

Been an awful good girl

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

Santa baby, a ’54 convertible too, light blue

I’ll wait up for you, dear

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

The song has since become a holiday classic and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Wolf Alice. This semi-provocative tone that the original has turned into something even cheekier with this British rock band formed in London in 2010. Although you can hear most of the band’s vocals in their songs, this time Ellie Rowsell is the protagonist of this alternative rock, folk, and grunge remake.

“White Christmas” by caravan

“White Christmas” is a classic Christmas song written by Irving Berlin. The most famous and enduring version of the song is the one recorded by Bing Crosby. Crosby’s rendition was first released in 1942 and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. While this Xmas classic song has been covered by many artists since some believe that Bing Crosby’s version is the holiday song. Until caravan.

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas

Just like the ones I used to know

Where the treetops glisten and children listen

To hear sleigh bells in the snow

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas

With every Christmas card I write

“May your days be merry and bright

And may all your Christmases be white

This talented indie singer-songwriter adds a multilingual twist to the song near the end. We’re lucky to continue seeing his growth as an artist and cannot wait for what he has to offer in 2024.

“Driving Home For Christmas” by Alice Jemima

“Driving Home for Christmas” was written and originally recorded by British singer-songwriter Chris Rea who released it in 1986. And, yes, it’s that other Xmas classic that has only been covered by the very brave, such as Alice Jemima:

I’m driving home for Christmas

Oh, I can’t wait to see those faces

I’m driving home for Christmas, yea

Well I’m moving down that line

And it’s been so long

But I will be there

I sing this song

To pass the time away

Driving in my car

Driving home for Christmas

Also a British singer-songwriter, but she is better known for her indie pop and electronic sound. She has gained wide attention for her soothing vocals and dreamy soundscapes and, after listening to this version, you’ll always want her to drive you home.

“Don’t Be Alone (This Christmas)” by Sweet Baboo

Ok, so, you’ll hear sleigh bells on this one, but it’s not your usual or traditional Xmas jingle. “Don’t Be Alone (This Christmas)” is a new approach to this festive season by Sweet Baboo, whose real name is Stephen Black. This Welsh musician is known for his indie-pop and folk-influenced music. As a songwriter, he is known for his versatility in crafting songs that range from upbeat and playful to more introspective and contemplative.

What’s more his lyrics often explore themes of love, relationships, and everyday life, and he has a knack for infusing his songs with a sense of humor and charm, as you’ve probably noticed already:

Over slate rooftops and sheer north cliff face drops

Seven deadly seas, won’t keep him away

If it was me then I would be scared

Up there all alone and fifty thousand feet in the air

And with so far to go does he feel all alone

This indie talent has already released several albums showcasing his eclectic sound. If you like what you hear, you can check out some of his most well-known albums, I’m a Dancer / Songs About Sleepin’ (2010), Ships (2013), and Wild Imagination (2017), and his most recent release The Wreckedge (2023).

“Christmas Lullaby” by Shy Nature

Shy Nature is a British indie pop band that formed in 2013 and was soon recognized for its infectious and melodic sound. They gained attention with their debut single “Deadly Sin” (2014) and they have continued to release upbeat and lively music in the indie pop scene with catchy hooks and jangly guitars. So, a Xmas jingle was due!

Cold is the night

Soft is the slumber

The world is dreaming

Holy the night

A heavy sun rises

She’s dreaming of things

Where somewhere it’s snowing

And the rest of us singing

This song is more in line with that soothing atmosphere that only vocals like William Taylor’s can create.

We hope to continue showcasing indie music in our playlists as a new year filled with promising and groundbreaking talent.

Merry Xmas!