Top 10 Sentimental Classic Christmas Songs

There are classic Christmas songs of all sorts - cheerful, joyous, sacred or secular. But there are some Christmas classics that affect us more deeply - sentimental songs that remind us of Christmases past, and fill us with nostalgia. Here is a list of sentimental Christmas classics that can bring a tear to your eye or a lump to your throat.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #10 - Do They Know It's Christmas - Band Aid

This song, written by Sir Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, became an instant classic on its release back in November 1984. Its message of sharing and thinking of others during the holidays (a message shared in its lyrics and in the artists who freely gave their time and talent for a worthy cause) give it a special place in many hearts.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #9 - O Holy Night - Johnny Mathis

This popular Christmas carol was originally written in French and has been recorded by dozens of artists, including Enrique Caruso and Mariah Carey. The sweeping music and lyrics about the birth of Christ make it a sentimental favorite of many at Christmastime.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #8 - O Tannenbaum - Vince Guaraldi Trio

Those of us who grew up with A Charlie Brown Christmas can't consider the season complete until we've heard some of Vince Guaraldi's excellent piano work. This rendition of a classic Christmas song is a marvelous reminder of Christmases past.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #7 - I'll be Home for Christmas - Barbra Streisand

This song, about missing loved ones and dreaming of making it home for Christmas is a sentimental favorite of many. Ms. Streisand's version is one of the most heartfelt.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #6 - White Christmas - Bing Crosby

Perhaps the best known of all Christmas classics, White Christmas never fails to bring back memories of childhood Christmases - even for those who grew up without snow.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #5 - Happy Xmas/War is Over - John Lennon and the Plastic Ono Band

Originally a response to the war in Viet Nam, Lennon's song has become a Christmas classic and has been re-recorded by many artists. Its simple yet heartfelt lyrics which call for an end to war make it a sentimental favorite of many.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #4 - Do You Hear What I Hear - Perry Como

Although this Christmas classic has been recorded by many artists, Perry Como's version is the one that sends shivers down my back. The majestic arrangement paired with Como's homespun phrasing makes a perfect accompaniment to the lyrics message of a king born in a simple manger.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #3 - The Little Drummer Boy - Harry Simeone Choir

This is another song that has been covered by a myriad of artists, but this chorale version is probably the best loved. It's a beautiful Christmas song that reminds us that the best gifts come from the heart.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #2 - The Christmas Song - Nat King Cole

Originally written by Mel Torme, the version sung by Nat King Cole is probably the best known. With lyrics about the simple Christmas pleasures of roasting chestnuts and hanging stockings by the fire, this song encompasses everything we love about the holidays.

Sentimental Classic Christmas Song #1 - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - Judy Garland

Who can listen to Judy Garland sing this gorgeous Christmas classic without shedding a tear? Her voice is heartbreakingly beautiful as she sings these lyrics that remind us that even though we may have troubles, we need to look for joy in family and friends at Christmastime.