‘Tis the season for holiday cheer, but for some, the joy of Christmas is dulled by the absence of a loved one.
Whether they are far away serving in the military, have passed away, or are simply unable to be with us this holiday season, the pain of missing someone can be especially poignant during the holidays.
For those feeling the pangs of longing this Christmas, here are 7 songs that capture the feeling of missing someone during the most wonderful time of the year.
7 Best Christmas Songs about Missing Someone
1. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson
“Forget the gifts and material possessions – all you really need for a magical Christmas is love and companionship, and that’s exactly what Kelly Clarkson’s hit song “Underneath the Tree” is all about.
Released as the lead single for her 2013 Christmas album Wrapped in Red, “Underneath the Tree” captures the anguish of missing someone special during the holidays. However, Clarkson finds solace in remembering that even in their absence, they are still a part of this joyous season.
2. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” by U2
Originally recorded by Darlene Love and released as a single in 1963, “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” has been covered by countless artists over the years. U2’s version on their 1998 album, A Very Special Christmas 2, is particularly powerful.
The Irish rockers pay homage to the original while bringing in their signature sound, creating a gripping ode to missing someone dearly during the holidays.
3. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid
The classic charity single by Band Aid is a tear-jerker every year, but it can be especially poignant when thinking of those not present at holiday gatherings.
Originally released in 1984, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the need to look after one another during difficult times. As Band Aid sings: “There’s a world outside your window, and it’s a world of dread and fear.”
And while the song is primarily about those suffering in Africa, it can also be a powerful call to action for those wanting to reach out and help bring cheer and hope during the season of giving.
4. “I’ll Be Missing You Come Christmas (A Letter To Santa)” by New Kids On The Block
One song that really captures the feeling of missing someone during Christmas is New Kids on the Block’s “I’ll Be Missing You Come Christmas (A Letter To Santa).” Released in 1994, this heartfelt holiday ballad serves as a plea to Santa Claus to bring a loved one home for Christmas.
Featuring soaring vocals and a soulful chorus, “I’ll Be Missing You Come Christmas (A Letter To Santa)” is sure to bring tears to your eyes as you grapple with the pain of missing someone during the holidays.
5. “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” by Mariah Carey
Another tune that tackles the topic of missing someone at Christmas is this classic by Mariah Carey. While the song is often associated with the excitement and joy of the holiday season, its lyrics also touch on the feelings of loneliness and longing for a loved one.
And with its catchy chorus, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” has become a holiday staple and one that can help you express your heartache of being apart from someone during the holidays.
6. Let It Snow by Boyz II Men
Heralded as one of the greatest Christmas albums ever, Boyz II Men’s A Holiday Collection is full of gems and “Let it Snow” is certainly one of them.
In it the group sings about being stuck inside on a snowy day, feeling the chill of the weather outside and longing for the warmth and comfort of a loved one.
It’s a wistful tune that captures the feeling of missing someone even when surrounded by family and friends during the holidays.
7. “Santa Tell Me” by Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s song “Santa Tell Me” is a heartfelt plea to Santa Claus asking for his assurance that the person she is developing feelings for won’t leave over the Christmas holidays.
Ariana expresses the fear of investing her all in someone who may not be there to share it with her when the holiday season arrives.
And while the song is not explicitly about missing someone, it speaks to the universal feeling of uncertainty and longing for a loved one during Christmas.
Wrapping Up
As we come to the end of this list of the seven best Christmas songs about missing someone, we are once again reminded of the timeless power of music to capture and express our deepest emotions.
These songs may be all about missing someone, but they are also full of hope and the promise of better days to come.
No matter how far apart we may be from the ones we love, these songs remind us that the bonds of love and friendship can never be broken and that one day we will be reunited with those we miss.
Until then, let us hold on to the memories of those we love and the music that brings us together, and let us find comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone in our feelings of loss and longing. Merry Christmas to all, and may your holiday season be filled with love and joy.
