However, a few songs might not be the best choice to listen to while driving, as studies suggest they could pose some danger.
Luckily, Chris Rea’s ‘Driving Home for Christmas’ didn’t make the risky list, preserving its irony-free status.
Research by the South China University Of Technology indicates that a Christmas song’s beats per minute (BPM) could determine its level of danger.
Songs with a BPM over 120 are believed to have ‘psychological and cardiovascular effects’ that heighten the chances of risky driving, thereby increasing the likelihood of serious accidents.
With this research in mind, Insuranceopedia reviewed Christmas number 1 hits and their BPMs to understand which ones might not be safe to listen to on the road.
One classic from the 1970s clocks in at 129 BPM, placing it in the ‘dangerous’ category for driving Christmas songs.
Surprisingly, Judy Garland’s track, often associated with slow dances, has a BPM of 137.
A not-so-surprising entry at number 8 is ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday,’ a perfect Christmas party song with a BPM of 140.
This karaoke favorite, ideal for after a few too many eggnogs, boasts a BPM of 142.
This track has seen multiple versions over the years, including renditions by Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra, and Tori Kelly, and has a BPM of 143.
Before his tragic assassination, John Lennon, along with Yoko Ono, released ‘Happy Xmas (War Is Over)’ which maintains a BPM of 146. The 1970 hit has made several chart comebacks, reaching number 38 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2022.
The Jackson 5 makes another appearance in the top 10 of high BPM holiday songs with a Christmas classic at 147 BPM.
A favorite track for many, José Feliciano’s ‘Feliz Navidad’ ranks as the third most dangerous song to drive to, with a BPM of 149.
Mariah Carey’s iconic holiday song takes second place with a BPM of 150. However, it’s arguably the irresistible urge to sing along to ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ that poses more of a driving distraction than its BPM.
At the top of the list is a festive tune with a BPM of 172, making it significantly the most ‘dangerous’ Christmas song when driving.