Top 10 Christmas Rock Songs

I don't know about you, but I get sick of Christmas music pretty early in the season. It's not that I'm lacking in Christmas cheer, it's just that the family-friendly old fashioned carols just aren't my style. In my opinion, some of the best Christmas songs aren't the same ones you'll hear your church choir singing. So here's my list of top 10 Christmas songs-- rock Christmas songs. Because who says you have to put away your leather jacket and eyeliner for the holiday season?

10. Twisted Sister, "Heavy Metal Christmas"

Forget turtle doves, leaping lords and partridges-- in this heavy metal version of "The 12 Days of Christmas," Dee Snider and the other members of Twisted Sister tell you what rockers really want for Christmas: "4 quarts of Jack, 3 studded belts, 2 pairs of spandex pants and a tattoo of Ozzy!" Twisted Sister actually has a whole album of rock Christmas music, proving that Christmas music doesn't have to be boring and traditional.

9. Ramones, "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)"

The holidays can be stressful. All those expectations, family pressures, too much eggnog...Joey Ramone wants to remind you to enjoy the holiday and not take your anger out on your closest friends and family.

8. My Chemical Romance, "All I Want for Christmas Is You"

The beginning of this song doesn't exactly showcase Gerard Way's vocal talents, but once the drums and guitars kick in, this is great rock Christmas music. And when you think about it, the lyrics of this cover song really do lend themselves to an Emo audience.

7. Winger, "Happy Christmas (War is Over)"

This rock Christmas song was originally recorded by John Lennon and Yoko Ono in the early 70s and has been covered by at least a dozen other artists. Personally, I like the Winger version. The power ballad style makes me think of my year in epic terms. It's Christmas time, what have I done?

6. New Found Glory, "Ex Miss"

This sounds like your typical New Found Glory song, except for the traditional-sounding Christmas music that's skillfully woven into the beginning, end and chorus.

5. Death Cab for Cutie, "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)"

This nice little indie rock Christmas song is fitting for anyone who is hoping for a special someone to arrive home in time for the holidays.

4. Sugarcult, "Santa Claus is Coming to Town"

Quite simply, this is a rock Christmas song that sticks faithfully to the lyrics and intention of the original 1930s version, but gives it a musical spin that makes it tolerable to listen to.

3. The Killers, "Don't Shoot Me, Santa"

Have you been a clean livin' boy, or have you been killing just for fun? Because Santa isn't always such a nice guy...sometimes he's a grungy disturbed man with a shovel and a bullet in his...what? The video is worth watching just for the terrible Christmas sweaters and the maracas.

2. The Darkness, "Christmas Time (Don't Let the Bells End)"

Maybe I'm a sucker for awesomely bad and over-the-top music, but The Darkness just makes me happy. This original and fun rock Christmas song is definitely going on my Christmas play list.

1. Trans-Siberian Orchestra, "Carol of the Bells"

Trans-Siberian Orchestra is just as much about the pyrotechnics and flashy guitars as any other rock band, and their rocking rendition of Carol of the Bells is not only one of the best rock Christmas songs, it's one of the best Christmas songs for any Christmas playlist.

Did your favorite rock Christmas songs make the list? If not, leave a comment with your own top 10 Christmas songs.