Sia’s “Snowman” Surpasses Mariah Carey’s Christmas Classic on Spotify

The holiday music landscape has shifted dramatically with Sia’s song “Snowman” claiming the top spot on Spotify’s list of most-streamed seasonal tracks this December. This marks a significant change, as it dethrones the long-standing favorite, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” by Mariah Carey, which had dominated the charts for nearly three decades.

According to data from Spotify, Mariah Carey’s iconic hit had been the most popular Christmas song on the platform since its release in 1994. However, Sia’s “Snowman,” originally released in 2017 on her album “Everyday Is Christmas,” has gained traction over the years and has now become the most-streamed holiday tune this season.

Sia’s Rise to the Top

“Snowman” is a piano-driven pop ballad that has gradually captured the hearts of listeners, particularly in recent years. Sia, whose full name is Sia Kate Isobelle Furler, began her music career in the 1990s as a member of the band Crisp. She gained international fame in 2014 with her hit “Chandelier.” Beyond her solo success, Sia has also made her mark as a songwriter, penning hits for artists like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Katy Perry.

Throughout her career, Sia has received nine Grammy nominations and has won several other music awards, solidifying her status in the industry. Her ability to resonate with audiences through emotive storytelling and relatable themes has contributed to the growing popularity of “Snowman.”

While Sia celebrates her newfound success, Mariah Carey retains the title of the most-streamed Christmas song of all time. As of December 2023, Carey’s classic remains at the second position on the streaming list. Also making waves this season, “Last Christmas” by Wham! ranks third, followed by Dean Martin’s “Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” in fourth place, and Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” at fifth.

The Impact of Streaming on Holiday Music

The rise of streaming platforms like Spotify has significantly transformed how holiday music is consumed. Songs that may not have received as much attention in previous years can now find new life as listeners seek fresh sounds during the festive season. This evolution has allowed artists like Sia to break through and gain recognition in a genre often dominated by classics.

The competition among Christmas songs is fierce, and the continued popularity of traditional favorites demonstrates the enduring appeal of holiday music. As the music industry evolves, it will be interesting to see how new artists and songs navigate this landscape in the years to come.

For now, Sia’s “Snowman” stands as a testament to the ever-changing nature of music popularity, reminding listeners that even the most cherished classics can be challenged by new and innovative works.