Do classic holiday songs (like “Last Christmas”) matter more than new releases at Christmas time?

Wham!’s “Last Christmas” returned to number one in December 2025 for its fifth time topping the UK Singles Chart.

The 1984 hit has become a holiday staple and was the Christmas number one in 2023 and 2024.

This year, however, it slipped to number two as Kylie Minogue’s new festive track “XMAS” claimed the top spot.

The result reflects the ongoing popularity of classic Christmas songs, which often outperform new releases due to nostalgia, tradition, and repeat seasonal plays.

At the same time, fresh holiday music continues to break through.

The chart battle highlights how older hits still resonate deeply with listeners, even as new songs aim to define the season for a new generation.