The time has come. Dinner is almost on the table, the uncle with the “pavê” joke is ready, and inevitably, the soundtrack needs to match the mood. If you thought 2025 would be the year we’d get rid of repetitive classics, think again.
The reality of streaming this Christmas shows a curious scenario: a battle between million-dollar nostalgia and the new generation of pop trying (with great effort) to steal a piece of the panettone.
The Empire of Mariah Carey (and Her Bank Account)
There’s no way around it. Mariah Carey remains the official owner of the month of December. “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” released back in 1994, not only returned to the top of global charts but also broke new records on Spotify this year.
The track surpassed 2 billion streams and, according to market estimates, puts about R$ 16.5 million annually in the singer’s pocket from royalties alone. The diva’s “defrosting” is not a meme; it’s a foolproof business model.
The New Guard: Sabrina Carpenter and Ariana
But 2025 brought a breath of fresh air (or is it air conditioning?). Sabrina Carpenter is the name of the moment. With her Netflix special, A Nonsense Christmas, she managed to place tracks like “Santa Doesn’t Know You Like I Do” and high-profile collaborations with Chappell Roan. It’s the perfect choice for those who want a more “Gen Z” and less traditional vibe in the living room.
Who also remains firm as the “vice-queen” is Ariana Grande. Her “Santa Tell Me” has already become a modern classic, appearing in the Billboard Top 10 alongside legends like Brenda Lee and Bobby Helms.
And in Brazil?
Here, tradition speaks louder. Singer Simone and her “Então é Natal” continue to lead domestic playlists, proving that Brazilians love a classic (even if they complain about it online).
However, the national scene is changing: funk, sertanejo, and even piseiro versions of Christmas songs are climbing the charts, showing that the Brazilian dinner accepts everything, from raisins to 150 BPM beats.
If you’re the party DJ tonight, the tip is to mix: start with Sabrina Carpenter’s current pop to please the younger cousins, play Mariah when the food is served, and leave Simone for the sentimental moment of gift exchange.
