The countdown to 2025’s Christmas number one is heating up, with iconic hits from Wham! and Mariah Carey battling fresh contenders for the coveted top spot.
A Festive Chart Tradition
Securing the Christmas number one has become a treasured British music tradition. While other countries track holiday hits, the UK’s festive chart race remains unmatched in cultural significance.
Kylie leads three-way race for Christmas number one. “It’s been an unbelievable year, so that would be the cherry on top.” Her festive single XMAS is currently 7,000 units ahead of the nearest competitor, Wham’s Last Christmas – which has topped the charts for the last two years.
Wham’s Last Christmas is the current number one single; and it’s huge streaming numbers could allow the band to hold on to the top spot.
Fairytale is the third best-selling single of the week thanks to a limited-edition zoetrope vinyl, which was released on Friday.
The song has famously achieved every position in the Top 20 except for number one; and strong streaming numbers could help it leapfrog the competition.
Less than 10,000 “sales” separate the top five.
How Is the Christmas Number One Decided?
The UK’s Official Top 40 chart is compiled by the Official Charts Company. Sales and streams are counted weekly from 12:01 am Friday to 12:00 am Thursday. Every Friday afternoon, BBC Radio 1 reveals the Top 40 countdown, while the full Top 100 chart goes live on OfficialCharts.com at 5:45 pm.
When Will the Winner Be Announced?
The official Christmas number one for 2025 will be revealed on Friday, December 20. Who will reign supreme this year — a timeless classic or a new festive favorite? Stay tuned!
Every Christmas Number One Since 1952: A Festive Journey from Mr. Blobby to LadBaby
The festive season brings a unique charm, and one of its most cherished traditions in the UK is the annual battle for the coveted Christmas number one spot on the music charts. This title not only represents exceptional sales but also a symbolic storyline that captures the spirit of the holiday season. Since 1952, when the first official Christmas number one was recorded, the list has included everything from heartwarming ballads to cheeky novelty songs. In this article, we’ll take you through every Christmas number one hit since 1952, shining a spotlight on the evolution of this beloved tradition, the artists who made their mark, and the cultural shifts that influenced the music scene.
The Beginning: 1952 – 1969
1952 – “Here In My Heart” by Al Martino
The journey begins with Al Martino’s “Here In My Heart,” a classic ballad that set a precedent for the emotional depth often found in Christmas songs. This romantic number topped the charts in a post-war Britain, ushering in a new era of music that mingled heartfelt sentiments with holiday cheer.
1953 – “Answer Me” by Frankie Laine
Following Al Martino, Frankie Laine’s “Answer Me” topped the charts. Laine’s powerful vocals added a layer of urgency and passion to the season’s music, solidifying the Christmas number one’s place in British culture.
1954 – “Let’s Have Another Party” by Winifred Atwell
Winifred Atwell brought a jovial spirit with “Let’s Have Another Party.” This lively tune foreshadowed the novelty songs that would later dominate the holiday charts, as it captured the festive spirit of celebration and cheer.
1955 – “Christmas Alphabet” by Dickie Valentine
As the 1950s continued, Dickie Valentine’s “Christmas Alphabet” introduced a fun, childlike charm with its playful lyrics, reminding listeners of the joys of innocence that the season brings.
1956 – “Just Walkin’ in the Rain” by Johnnie Ray
Johnnie Ray’s emotional ballad brought depth to the Christmas soundtrack, showcasing the range of sentiments that could be expressed through music.
1957 – “Mary’s Boy Child” by Harry Belafonte
Harry Belafonte’s “Mary’s Boy Child” was a significant entry into the Christmas canon, merging the sacred and the celebratory. The song’s rich melodies and storytelling evoked a deeper understanding of the holiday’s roots.
1958 – “It’s Only Make Believe” by Conway Twitty
With Conway Twitty’s “It’s Only Make Believe,” we see a softening of heartstrings with a slightly melancholic tone, a reminder that Christmas can evoke a mix of feelings.
1959 – “What Do You Want to Make Those Eyes at Me For?” by Emile Ford and The Checkmates
The breezy charm of Emile Ford’s number reminded listeners that the Christmas spirit isn’t just about solemn reverence but also joyous flirtation and connection.
The Vale of The Beatles: 1960 – 1969
1960 – “I Love You” by Cliff Richard and The Shadows
Cliff Richard and The Shadows dominated the early 60s with “I Love You,” marking a significant turn toward pop culture and rock sounds that would take the industry by storm.
1961 – “Moon River” by Danny Williams
Danny Williams offered a haunting rendition of “Moon River,” which stitched together dreams and nostalgia—a favorite during the cold festive nights.
1962 – “Return to Sender” by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s “Return to Sender” wrapped the King’s charm into Christmas, serving as a bridge between conventional holiday themes and a modern pop narrative.
1963 – “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles
With teenage culture mushrooming, The Beatles burst onto the scene with “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” representing the shift in music toward beat and pop sensibilities.
1964 – “I Feel Fine” by The Beatles
The Beatles continued their streak, and “I Feel Fine” encapsulated the vivacity of the 60s youthful spirit, aligning perfectly with the festive cheer.
1965 – “Day Tripper / We Can Work It Out” by The Beatles
The dual A-side single further showcased the transformative landscape of music where artistry and rebellion collided, with fans eagerly snatching up the latest tunes during the holiday shopping frenzy.
1966 – “Green Green Grass of Home” by Tom Jones
Tom Jones’s emotive rendition of “Green Green Grass of Home” struck a chord, framing a narrative of longing that resonated with those missing home during the holiday season.
1967 – “Hello, Goodbye” by The Beatles
Again, The Beatles returned with another hit that defined counterculture, serving as the backdrop to an evolving holiday celebration among the youth.
1968 – “Lily the Pink” by The Scaffold
A fun novelty track from The Scaffold— “Lily the Pink”— encapsulated the joyous silliness of the season while also hinting at sociopolitical undertones that characterized the era.
1969 – “Two Little Boys” by Rolf Harris
Rolf Harris brought a sense of nostalgia with his storytelling style in “Two Little Boys,” adding emotional weight to the charts.
The 70s: A Diverse Array of Styles
1970 – “I Hear You Knocking” by Dave Edmunds
Dave Edmunds’s rock-infused number showcased how Christmas brought varied genres together, appealing to a wider spectrum of music lovers.
1971 – “Ernie (The Fastest Milkman In The West)” by Benny Hill
Benny Hill delighted listeners with “Ernie,” a quirky tale that secured its place as a novelty hit, revealing how humor and heartwarming stories could coexist.
1972 – “Long Haired Lover From Liverpool” by Jimmy Osmond
Jimmy Osmond, the youngest of the Osmonds, charmed audiences with “Long Haired Lover From Liverpool,” indicating a trend towards family-friendly entertainment during the holidays.
1973 – “Merry Xmas Everybody” by Slade
With “Merry Xmas Everybody,” Slade defined the party anthem atmosphere that encapsulated the 1970s Christmas spirit. The song drew people together, heralding the era of festive gatherings.
1974 – “Lonely This Christmas” by Mud
Mud’s poignant reflection on loneliness during the festive period struck a chord with many—a reminder that not everyone felt the joyous celebrations.
1975 – “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” was a groundbreaking piece of music that embodied dramatic structure and creativity, redefining rock and roll even during the holiday season.
1976 – “When a Child Is Born (Soleado)” by Johnny Mathis
The glimmering spirituality of Johnny Mathis’s track offered a serene touch to the holiday music landscape, grounding the period’s songs in deeper meanings.
1977 – “Mull of Kintyre / Girls’ School” by Wings
Paul McCartney’s entry, “Mull of Kintyre,” not only won hearts but served as a reminder of the rural beauty and nostalgia associated with Christmas.
1978 – “Mary’s Boy Child / Oh My Lord” by Boney M
This medley by Boney M brought combined warmth and spirituality, reinforcing the importance of traditional themes during the season amidst a backdrop of disco flair.
1979 – “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2” by Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd’s edgy classic carved out an entirely different space for holiday music, illustrating that the season could encompass themes of revolution and change.
The 80s: The Glittering Golden Age of Christmas Music
1980 – “There’s No One Quite Like Grandma” by St Winifred’s School Choir
In a move towards community-centric music, the St Winifred’s School Choir generated a nostalgic hit that further united listeners under the traditions of home and family.
1981 – “Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League
The Human League’s synth-pop hit “Don’t You Want Me?” became a staple, showing how 80s culture embraced technology while maintaining catchy melodies.
1982 – “Save Your Love” by Renée and Renato
This romantic duet captured a charming simplicity that felt like a warm hug during the colder winter months.
1983 – “Only You” by The Flying Pickets
The a cappella rendition of “Only You” reminded listeners of the artistry in vocal arrangements and the magic of simple harmonies during Christmas.
1984 – “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid
A watershed moment, Band Aid banded together top British artists to raise awareness about famine in Ethiopia, immortalizing “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” as a powerful anthem of compassion and unity.
1985 – “Merry Christmas Everyone” by Shakin’ Stevens
Shakin’ Stevens presented a retro vibe with “Merry Christmas Everyone,” an upbeat classic that encapsulated the party spirit that characterized the Christmas season.
1986 – “Reet Petite” by Jackie Wilson
Jackie Wilson’s deep soul was a listenable treat, showcasing the power of classic rhythm and blues during winter festivities.
1987 – “Always on My Mind” by Pet Shop Boys
This heartfelt ballad from Pet Shop Boys offered a touching perspective on love—perfectly aligning with the season of giving and gratitude.
1988 – “Mistletoe and Wine” by Cliff Richard
Cliff Richard made his mark again with “Mistletoe and Wine,” tying together warmth and romance as perfect sentiments for holiday gatherings.
1989 – “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid II
In 1989, the second installment of Band Aid revitalized the original, reminding us of the spirit of community and the continued importance of giving during the holiday season.
1990 – “Saviour’s Day” by Cliff Richard
Cliff Richard continued his Christmas legacy with “Saviour’s Day,” embodying the blend of spirituality and celebration that fans appreciated.
1991 – “Bohemian Rhapsody / These Are the Days of Our Lives” by Queen
The re-release of “Bohemian Rhapsody” alongside “These Are the Days of Our Lives” encapsulated both nostalgia and the timeless nature of Queen’s music.
1992 – “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s powerful rendition pushed boundaries in emotional storytelling, reminding us of the joy—and heartbreak—that can come during the season.
The 90s to the 2000s: A Shift in Trends
1993 – “Mr Blobby” by Mr Blobby
In 1993, Mr Blobby stormed the charts with a silly novelty hit, demonstrating how humor and light-heartedness could be a theme at Christmas.
1994 – “Stay Another Day” by East 17
East 17’s blend of pop and R&B with “Stay Another Day” added emotional depth, featuring themes of longing and companionship during a time when feelings are magnified.
1995 – “Earth Song” by Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Earth Song” resonated deeply during the holidays, reflecting a call for compassion and reminding listeners of the global connections we share.
1996 – “2 Become 1” by Spice Girls
The Spice Girls’ “2 Become 1” showcased love and partnership, solidifying their role in creating anthems for friendship and unity during the season.
1997 – “Too Much” by Spice Girls
The Spice Girls churned out another hit, filled with catchy hooks and girl power themes, embodying the festive vibes of the late 90s.
1998 – “Goodbye” by Spice Girls
As a tribute to the end of an era, “Goodbye” touched the hearts of fans, intertwining themes of love, loss, and remembrance—a fitting sentiment for the season.
1999 – “I Have a Dream / Seasons in the Sun” by Westlife
Westlife’s heartfelt combination brought together the notions of hope and joy—two timeless messages that resonate even more during this festive period.
2000 – “Can We Fix It?” by Bob the Builder
Bob the Builder appealed to families, emphasizing unity and problem-solving, reflective of themes synonymous with Christmas spirit.
2001 – “Somethin’ Stupid” by Robbie Williams and Nicole Kidman
Robbie Williams and Nicole Kidman’s duet showed how a classic croon can elevate seasonal sentiments, bridging old and contemporary styles.
The 2000s to Present: The New Wave of Festive Hits
2002 – “Sound of the Underground” by Girls Aloud
Girls Aloud’s debut hit demonstrated a new wave of pop that mixed influences and trends, showing how young artists are continuing to shape the musical landscape.
2003 – “Mad World” by Michael Andrews and Gary Jules
The haunting “Mad World” offered an emotional contrast to typical holiday celebrations, invoking deeper reflections about life and existence during the season.
2004 – “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid 20
Another iteration of the Band Aid classic proved poignant, reminding people that Christmas is also a time for compassion and outreach to those in need.
2005 – “That’s My Goal” by Shayne Ward
Shayne Ward’s motivational anthem embraced aspirations during a season focused on hope, further encouraging listeners to look ahead.
2006 – “A Moment Like This” by Leona Lewis
Leona Lewis captured the essence of dreams coming true, reinforcing the message that Christmas is indeed a time for miracles.
2007 – “When You Believe” by Leon Jackson
The uplifting “When You Believe” reminded us of the strength found in faith and connection, powerful messages during the holiday season.
2008 – “Hallelujah” by Alexandra Burke
Alexandra Burke’s rendition of “Hallelujah” reignited the cultural significance of the song, linking love, loss, and hope, which resonated remarkably during the festive season.
2009 – “Killing in the Name” by Rage Against the Machine
In a surprising twist, Rage Against the Machine’s timely protest anthem showed that music for Christmas could also come from a place of rebellion, emphasizing the need for change.
2010 – “When We Collide” by Matt Cardle
Matt Cardle presented a sweet pop ballad reflecting love’s challenges and triumphs, tying in beautifully with the holiday spirit.
2011 – “Wherever You Are” by Military Wives with Gareth Malone
This touching tribute from military wives illustrated the heartwarming stories behind the season, reminding everyone of the importance of togetherness.
2012 – “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” by The Justice Collective
A powerful song of community and support, this rendition emphasized the significance of helping one another during tough times.
2013 – “Skyscraper” by Sam Bailey
Sam Bailey’s powerful performance demonstrated that strength could be found within, providing a backdrop of empowerment during a season of reflection.
2014 – “Something I Need” by Ben Haenow
In “Something I Need,” Ben Haenow reminded us that amidst everything we desire, love and connection are paramount, perfectly fitting the spirit of the holidays.
2015 – “A Bridge Over You” by The Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Choir
This poignant cover resonated with many, delivering a powerful message of gratitude and hope, especially during trying times.
2016 – “Rockabye” by Clean Bandit
Clean Bandit’s cultural blend emphasized modern beats and themes, sounding a call of strength and resilience in the face of challenges.
2017 – “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran’s sweet ballad “Perfect” became a quintessential love song that honored commitment, blending beautifully into the essence of holiday romance.
2018 – “We Built This City” by LadBaby
LadBaby made their remarkable entry into the Christmas number one celebration with a humorous take on a classic rock anthem, giving the festive music scene a cheeky twist.
2019 – “I Love Sausage Rolls” by LadBaby
LadBaby returned with a lighthearted number that enchanted listeners, proving that humor has a strong place in the spirit of Christmas.
2020 – “Don’t Stop Me Eatin’” by LadBaby
In the thick of the pandemic, “Don’t Stop Me Eatin’” resonated with food lovers everywhere, embodying a lighthearted celebration amidst challenging times.
2021 – “Sausage Rolls for Everyone” by LadBaby featuring Ed Sheeran and Elton John
When LadBaby collaborated with two of the biggest music icons, they brought together legendary talent, adding another layer of humor and joy to the festive season.
2022 – “Food Aid” by LadBaby
Continuing to emphasize lightheartedness, “Food Aid” managed to blend social commentary with holiday festivities, showcasing how music and charity could intertwine beautifully.
2023 – “Last Christmas” by Wham!
In 2023, the iconic classic “Last Christmas” made its mark as a timeless favorite that juxtaposed holiday cheer with themes of love and loss, echoing the emotional depth present in so many Christmas tunes.
2024 – “Last Christmas” by Wham!
A second year in a row! Forty years after it was held off the No 1 spot by Band Aid, Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ was again the UK Christmas No 1 for the second year running in 2024.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Christmas Number One Hits
The journey through Christmas number one hits reveals a fascinating evolution influenced by shifting cultural landscapes, societal values, and musical styles. From the sentimental ballads of the 1950s to the cheeky humor of LadBaby in recent years, each entry on this list has contributed to a lingering legacy that continues to unify and entertain listeners each holiday season.
As we anticipate future entries to this revered list, one thing remains constant: the Christmas number one will always carry a blend of joy, nostalgia, and reflection that resonates across generations. So grab some eggnog and your favorite festive tunes, because this ongoing celebration of music embodies the vibrant spirit of the holidays!
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