Us Weekly's music editor, Ian Drew, talked to hit-making songwriter Christopher "Tricky" Stewart about what songs to play this season.
Christopher "Tricky" Stewart is the songwriter behind such smashes as Rihanna's "Umbrella," Beyonce Knowles' anthem "Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)" and Mariah Carey's "Touch My Body" gives Usmagazine.com his top 10 Christmas songs — plus a bonus track! — perfect for any party playlist.
"This Christmas," Donnie Hathaway
"In our household it was an iconic song by an iconic artist. Every time I hear it, it could be in July and I just get the sense of family and sharing. It's a timeless classic you can't touch."
"Santa Baby," Eartha Kitt
"This song oozes sex appeal and is alluring, but not vulgar. There have been many interpretations of this song, but no one can touch the original!"
"Someday at Christmas," Stevie Wonder
"One of my all-time favorites and one of the first Christmas songs with a social and political message that took a stand for peace. Although it was written with the Vietnam War in mind, the lyrics still ring true today."
"All I Want for Christmas," Mariah Carey
"Love her version of this song!"
"Baby It's Cold Outside," Ray Charles and Betty Carter
"The interaction between the two artists is seemless, funny and sexy. It puts you in the mood of wanting to be inside and snuggled up with your special someone."
"Merry Christmas All," Denise Montana & The SalSol Orchestra
"This is one of those songs that makes you happy. It puts you in a good mood."
"Little Drummer Boy," Whitney Houston
"Whitney is just an amazing artist, and her rendition of this song just fills you with love and the spirit of giving from your heart. Her vocals and presentation of this song is childhood innocence. And you have to love her daughter singing in the beginning. It's just a loving song."
"Last Christmas," Cascada
"Great upbeat version of the Wham song done by this multi-platinum dance act. Keeps you moving."
"I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus," The Jackson 5
There are so many great Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson Christmas songs but this is a Motown classic. This brings me back to my childhood, believing in Santa Claus, not being able to sleep, getting up early to rush and open gifts."
"O Holy Night," Christina Aguilera
"A talented woman who delivers a beautiful and moving version of this Christmas standard."
BONUS TRACK: "Christmas in Hollis," Run-DMC
"Hip-hop and Christmas! You've got to love this original song. It's now a classic all its own from these hip-hop legends!"
