10 Christmas Songs That Are Actually Good
4. Bobby Helms - Jingle Bell Rocks
"What song?" *Listens* "Oh, that one!"
Considered by many to be the first mainstream rock 'n' roll Christmas song, Helms' 1957 rockabilly effort may not by the first song that pops into people's heads during Santa's sack race but it is just as iconic as its modern-day equivalents.
The unmistakable riff by legendary guitarist Hank Garland and the relaxing, toe-tapping beat was released just two days before Christmas and was still able to peak at No. 6 on the pop chart, re-entering the charts both times it was released in 1958 and 1960. Much like many on this list, Helms was enjoying a spell of good fortune prior to the release of this holiday jingle with Fraulein and My Special Angel both hitting the No. 1 spot on the US Country charts.
Helms' classic has stood the test of time, still receiving significant airplay around December as well as coverage with the like of Michael Bublé, Rascal Flatts, Billy Idol and, err.. Aly & AJ... all covering the song.