Why Are So Many Artists Dropping Holiday Music?

Artists across pop, rock and Latin music are releasing new holiday songs and albums earlier and in greater variety this season. The trend gives listeners alternatives to familiar seasonal classics, with releases ranging from nostalgic and melancholic tracks to upbeat dance music.

Hilary Duff and Thrice frontman Dustin Kensrue put out holiday albums before Halloween, while Thalía added two tracks to an expanded edition of her 2024 album. Starbucks released its first global holiday album in more than a decade, featuring seven commissioned songs; Olivia Rodrigo issued her first holiday song, and Alanis Morissette released her first holiday album. Sufjan Stevens also returned to Christmas music with his first such song in 15 years.