Break from tradition with your not-so average holiday playlist

We've all grown up with it, and those of us who've worked in retail, restaurants and other jobs have had to endure it on an insufferable level, almost to the point of madness.

The question of whether you love or hate traditional Christmas music is often discussed around the holidays, with many people falling into the latter category. It's not that they are bad songs, per se, we've just heard them ad nauseum for as long as we can remember.

That's why each year I try to find a list of holiday-themed songs that break from the typical "Deck the Halls" or "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," while trying to dispel the myth that there is "no such thing as a good Christmas song."

1. The Kinks - "Father Christmas"

The Kinks were arguably the band that deserves to be ranked alongside The Beatles and Rolling Stones, in my opinion. They had so many great songs and albums and their take on Christmas is no different.

Although "Father Christmas" might have that upbeat rock n' roll tempo and hook, it's a very adult message about social commentary, speaking to the impracticality of toys and what would be best for Christmas is getting a job to support the family.

2. Clarence Carter - "Back Door Santa"

This one might be a little risky, but man does the 1968 soul classic from Carter sound great when you hear it. It's no wonder it's been covered by so many people over the years, or that Run DMC used the horn riff on their song "Christmas in Hollis."

"Back Door Santa" sounds like a song I would probably put on rotation throughout the year just because it feels so good when you hear it. The subject matter and innuendo might be a little risqué, or not have much to do with Christmas, but man, it's just a really good song.

3. Mike Rowe & John Rich - "Santa's Got a Dirty Job"

Having become the No. 1 selling track on iTunes recently, the new hit by "Dirty Jobs" host Mike Rowe and John Rich, also featuring The Oak Ridge Boys, isn't necessarily obscure, but definitely the newest of the bunch.

When you hear it, you can see why it's exploded as a modern-day classic, because it's simple, catchy and full of humor. Proceeds from the song's sales will also benefit Folds of Honor, an organization that provides scholarships to military families, and the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, which promotes trades and apprenticeships.

4. Squirrel Nut Zippers - "Hot Christmas"

If you like a little swingin' jazz in your playlist, look no further than Squirrel Nut Zippers' "Hot Christmas."

This song kicks off immediately with the horns, the jazz guitar and just jams the whole way through. Seriously, you'll have to fight the urge not to get up and dance when it comes on.

If you like what you hear, pick up the album "Christmas Caravan." In fact, just go ahead and do that. Every track is a winner.

5. Brian Setzer Orchestra - "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus"

Brian Setzer was the guy who broke my disdain for Christmas music and since has become an annual favorite. I'd be remiss not to include him on this list.

Truthfully, there isn't just one song to choose, but "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus" captures the holiday mood, while also bringin a big band sound with a slick guitar solo and catchy singalong chorus. You can't go wrong with Setzer and holiday music.

Jay Powell is a reporter for The Daily Herald. Contact him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @JayPowellCDH.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Break from tradition with your not-so average holiday playlist