Try this playlist full of Texas artists to get you in the Christmas spirit
Texas has never really done Christmas the traditional way.
Some years the state is freezing, some years it’s closer to shorts and T-shirt weather, and the music is just as unpredictable.
If you love soulful blues, gospel harmonies, swing infused country, or something a little silly to break up the holiday stress, Texas artists have covered just about every kind of Christmas feeling you can think of.
To celebrate that range, we put together a playlist that goes beyond the standard holiday rotation with 10 Christmas songs rooted in Texas music and Texas storytelling.
Here are the tracks worth adding to your playlist this season, if you haven’t already.
1. “Hot Texas Christmas Day” by Dale Watson
With temperatures expected to hit the upper 70s or even the 80s this Christmas, this one feels especially on point.
Dale Watson leans into the idea of a warm Texas holiday, singing about boots, straw hats, and streets from Austin to Pasadena instead of snow covered sidewalks.
It’s a fun reminder that Christmas can still feel festive even when the only thing falling is the temperature on your thermostat.
2. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson
Burleson’s own Kelly Clarkson delivered a modern Christmas staple with “Underneath the Tree,” a bright, joyful track from her album “Wrapped in Red.”
It’s upbeat, classic-sounding and shows up on holiday playlists every year for a reason. She even performed it to launch the NFL’s Christmas Gameday on Netflix this year, giving it another Texas-sized spotlight.
3. “Please Come Home for Christmas” by Charles Brown
Before the Eagles made this a national hit, Texas blues legend Charles Brown recorded the original.
Brown was born in Texas City and raised in Galveston, and his version carries that Gulf Coast cool that makes the heartbreak land a little deeper. It’s a staple for anyone who loves classic R&B during the holidays.
4. “Never Felt Like Christmas” by Lizzo
Lizzo may be a global superstar now, but she grew up in Houston, and that grounding shows in her more personal tracks.
This Christmas song is honest and relatable, leaning into the idea that not everyone gets excited about jingle bells or decorating trees. It’s a sweet and soulful story of finding holiday joy through love rather than tradition.
This song’s not on Spotify, so we included the YouTube link below.
5. “Swing on Down to Texas for Christmas” by Gary P. Nunn
Gary P. Nunn is one of the great pillars of Texas music. His Christmas track invites you to escape the cold and enjoy a warm Texas holiday, complete with Western swing and a nod to the state’s one of a kind spirit.
Jon Pardi’s more recent version helped revive it, but Nunn’s original is the blueprint.
6. “I’ll Make Everyday Christmas” by Joe Tex
Joe Tex gives Christmas a romantic spin with this one.
The whole song is a love letter, promising to make his woman feel cherished long after the holiday lights come down. His Southern soul roots show up in every verse, turning the track into warm, heartfelt comfort.
7. “Big Ol’ Texas Christmas” by Phil Vassar featuring Ray Benson
This one is pure Texas fun. Phil Vassar teams up with Asleep at the Wheel frontman Ray Benson for a lighthearted holiday tune filled with shoutouts to Texas towns and family food traditions.
Brisket, black-eyed peas, Grandpa snoring near the fireplace, kids watching Rudolph. It all comes together in a playful chorus that wishes everyone a big Texas Christmas.
8. “Christmas Means Love” by The Soul Stirrers
Formed in Trinity, Texas, The Soul Stirrers were pioneers of modern gospel and even launched Sam Cooke’s early career. Their Christmas song blends soulful harmonies with a message centered on compassion and joy.
It’s a beautiful choice if you want your playlist to include the spiritual side of the holiday with a strong Texas foundation.
9. “Santa Got Busted by the Border Patrol” by Kevin Fowler and Ray Benson
Only in Texas would someone write a Christmas song like this.
Amarillo-born Kevin Fowler teams up with Ray Benson again for a story about Santa getting into trouble on a wild trip near the border. The song keeps things light with plenty of humor and Western energy, making it a fun break from the serious stuff.
10. “Merry Christmas from the Family” by Robert Earl Keen
If your version of Christmas involves relatives yelling from the kitchen, last-minute store runs, folding chairs and a little bit of chaos, this one will hit home.
Robert Earl Keen captures the messy charm of a Texas family holiday better than anyone. It’s relatable and funny, and it has become a favorite across the state for that reason.
