As December reaches its festive peak, the race for the UK’s coveted Christmas Number 1 single is heating up. The Christmas Number 1 is a uniquely British tradition, with fans rallying behind their favorite tracks to ensure they top the charts during the most wonderful time of the year. This year’s competition is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with a mix of nostalgia, new releases, and charitable causes vying for the title.
The Contenders
Wham! – “Last Christmas”
Wham!’s timeless classic “Last Christmas” remains a frontrunner this year. After finally claiming the Christmas Number 1 spot in 2023—nearly 40 years after its release—the song has cemented its place in holiday music history. Its enduring popularity, fueled by annual streams and a devoted fanbase, ensures it’s a strong contender once again.
Band Aid 40 – “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the original Band Aid charity single. To celebrate, a new version titled “Do They Know It’s Christmas? (40th Anniversary Edition)” has been released. Combining elements from past Band Aid iterations with contributions from today’s artists, the track has struck a chord with listeners. Its powerful message and charitable roots make it a sentimental favorite for the top spot.
Tom Grennan – “It Can’t Be Christmas”
British singer-songwriter Tom Grennan has entered the festive fray with his original track, “It Can’t Be Christmas.” Released as an Amazon Music Original, the song has quickly gained momentum, topping the Official Trending Chart and climbing the Official Singles Chart. Grennan’s energetic promotion and live performances have helped the song connect with a broad audience, making it a genuine contender.
Mariah Carey – “All I Want for Christmas Is You”
Mariah Carey’s iconic holiday anthem is a perennial favorite, and while it’s yet to secure the Christmas Number 1 spot in the UK, its ubiquity during the season makes it impossible to rule out. Streaming numbers for the song surge every December, giving it a reliable edge in the charts.
The Wild Cards
This year’s race wouldn’t be complete without some surprises. Emerging novelty acts, like the viral Yorkshire Pudding Boy, add a layer of unpredictability to the competition. Meanwhile, the legacy of late musicians, such as Liam Payne, has reignited interest in past hits, creating further intrigue in this year’s race.
What’s at Stake?
The Official Christmas Number 1 race begins on Friday, December 13, with sales and streams counted until midnight on Thursday, December 19. The winner will be announced on Friday, December 20, during BBC Radio 1’s Official Chart Show. The competition is open to all, and fan engagement—whether through streaming, purchasing, or social media campaigns—plays a critical role in determining the outcome.
A Holiday Tradition
The Christmas Number 1 is more than just a chart achievement; it’s a piece of cultural history that reflects the mood of the season. From sentimental ballads to novelty hits, the songs that claim the title become part of the soundtrack of Christmas for years to come.
This year’s contenders bring a mix of nostalgia, charity, and fresh creativity to the race, ensuring the competition will be as entertaining as ever. Whether it’s Wham!’s enduring charm, Band Aid’s charitable spirit, Tom Grennan’s modern twist, or the undeniable pull of Mariah Carey, one thing is clear: the Christmas Number 1 will be a festive treat for all.
Stay tuned and may the best song win!