B-Sides: Christmas Favorites
“Just Because” - Baek Ayeon feat. JB of GOT7
My absolute favorite Christmas song is this delightful original piece by Baek Ayeon. “Just Because” has elements of traditional carols on top of a smoother, warm R&B track, bringing together a perfect balance of old and new. Not to mention the song features the pleasant vocals of GOT7’s leader JB, who complements Baek Ayeon perfectly. The harmonization of each of their voices paints a homey picture fit for the holidays. This song is my go-to for the season, hands down!
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” - Wendy, Moon Jungjae, and Lee Nile
SM Station came through on their first season with this lovely cover of the traditional Christmas carol. Wendy’s vocals fit so well with the jazz piano melody that I get goosebumps every time I listen to this song, no matter how many times I’ve heard it. Adding modern twists to the classics can sometimes be tricky, but the lovely rearrangement of a bright and cheery verse to the usually soft song is perfect with the first traditional verse.
“Christmas Day” - EXO
A legendary performance among EXO-Ls, EXO’s B-side “Christmas Day” contrasts the melancholy title release “Miracles in December.” The choreography became famous from the use of suspenders, making the song feel a little more sensual than it would have been just by itself. Much warmer than its counterpart, “Christmas Day” gives off a homey feeling everyone desires during the cold months, adding to the joy of the holiday season.
“Confession Song” - GOT7
Potentially one of the most heartwarming releases ever, GOT7’s “Confession Song” is something that I always find constantly on repeat during the holiday season. The concept embodies the magical and lovely atmosphere that often surrounds the holidays, with the music video shot in a school and actual confessions taking place for the filming. It’s impossible to not feel a childish-like sense of wonder and happiness with this song—a feeling we don’t experience enough of throughout the year.
“Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” - TVXQ
This one is a throwback classic from the original quintet TVXQ. The group performed a special acapella version of the classic carol “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” giving a nice vocal twist on a holiday favorite. The song is also performed in English, so you can easily get away with sneaking this one on the holiday playlist during family gatherings. As an acapella version, this special also shows off the vocal prowess of the group.