10 Great Holiday Songs by LGBTQ+ Artists

Make the yuletide gay! To get into the festive spirit, we’ve compiled a playlist of great holiday songs by LGBTQ+ people. From some must-have classics that everybody knows, to some more niche entries that deserve more love, here are ten festive tunes to help count down the days.

Be sure to check out the complete playlist, with many more tracks, here!

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Last Christmas – Wham!

What else could we start with? One of the most renowned Christmas songs of all time, played to death on the radio every single year – but it just never gets old. George Michael yearns for a lost love in the classic 80s tune, which continues to reach the Top 10 in the UK charts every December.

two queens in a king sized bed – girl in red

A heartfelt and poignant song, this beautifully captures the essence of a relationship between two women who share a deep love and connection. The song delves into the challenges they face in a world that may not always understand or accept their love, but celebrates their resilience and the strength they find in each other. With heartfelt lyrics and a soul-stirring melody, this is a powerful anthem that honors the beauty and power of love, regardless of societal norms and expectations.

The Power of Love – Frankie Goes to Hollywood

Although not explicitly Christmassy in its lyrics, this rousing ballad topped the charts during the festive season of 1984 and has since become a staple song in the celebrations. Led by openly gay singer and writer Holly Johnson, the track remains one of the most hauntingly beautiful love songs ever written, easily earning its place on this list.

Holiday – Lil Nas X

It may be a step or two away from the typical Christmas content of warm fireplaces and frosty weather, but Lil Nas X’s contribution to the festive season is still worth a place on this list. Following both the success of his single Old Town Road and his coming out posts on social media, the song is about maintaining confidence in his ability to be successful. Featuring a number of interesting double entendres, it may not be one for the whole family, but it’s certainly one for our playlists.

Step into Christmas – Elton John

Pop icon Elton John brings us another classic sing-along with Step into Christmas. With his renowned vocals and signature 70s’ pop rock style, this is one to bring out every year to get the crowd excited. It fully embraces the Christmas spirit, inviting its listeners to discard any tentativeness and openly enjoy the holidays.

The Heartache Can Wait – Brandi Carlisle

Brandi Carlisle brings the emotion with her break-up track The Heartache Can Wait, which follows the collapse of a relationship around Christmastime. It doesn’t sound like the most cheerful track, but the outlook is positive – with Brandi making the most of enjoying Christmas and putting off any feelings of heartache to deal with after the festivities.

Hot Chocolate – Tyler the Creator

Curated as part of his soundtrack for the 2018 rendition of The Grinch, Tyler the Creator offered up a unique range of brand-new songs – with this track being a strong highlight. Combining the classic nostalgia of Charlie Brown Christmas piano tracks with a modern, groovy adaptation, this track lives up to its title as a warm mug of Hot Chocolate.

You're the Star (On My Christmas Tree) - RuPaul

With RuPaul's signature charm and energy, this song combines catchy melodies and empowering lyrics to create a heartwarming experience. It's a reminder of the special people in our lives who bring light and joy, illuminating our holiday season like a star atop a Christmas tree. Whether you're singing along to the infectious chorus or swaying to the infectious beat, this track is a delightful addition to any holiday playlist, spreading love and cheer to all who listen.

Blame It On Christmas – Shea Diamond

Written for Kristen Stewart’s queer festive rom-com Happiest Season, Blame It On Christmas saw an exciting collaboration between Shea Diamond and Bebe Rexha. Though it’s among the newest songs on this list, the track sounds like a vintage classic, with Shea’s warm vocals carrying through. Definitely one to play whilst decorating the tree!

White Christmas – Lady Gaga

Mother Monster gives her own unique spin on the best-selling single of all time – and it’s every bit as delightful as you would expect. As proven with her forage into swing with Tony Bennett, Gaga has jazz music in her soul, making this rendition of a wintery classic a firm favorite in our Christmas playlists.