10 Best Gospel Songs to Play on Christmas Day

Christmas Day deserves a soundtrack that celebrates the true reason for the season. While secular Christmas songs dominate radio and playlists, gospel music brings the focus back to Christ’s birth, filling homes with worship, joy, and spiritual celebration.

Nigerian gospel artists have blessed 2025 with incredible music that blends contemporary sounds with deep worship. From Afrobeats infused praise to powerful worship ballads, these songs create the perfect atmosphere for Christmas Day whether you’re hosting family, preparing meals, or simply reflecting on God’s goodness.

Here are the 10 best gospel songs to play on Christmas Day, presented in countdown format from 10 to 1.

10. Toluwanimee – “Ayo (Joy To The World)”

Starting our countdown is Toluwanimee’s modern take on Christmas worship. “Ayo (Joy To The World)” brings traditional Christmas themes to life with vibrant Afrobeats energy. The UK based gospel singer songwriter has created something special here, blending the familiar “Joy To The World” message with contemporary Nigerian sounds.

What makes this song perfect for Christmas morning is its energy. It’s the kind of track that gets children excited while adults appreciate the musical quality and worship message. The Afrobeats rhythm makes it impossible not to move, creating that celebratory atmosphere Christmas Day deserves.

Toluwanimee understands that worship doesn’t have to be slow to be meaningful. “Ayo” proves you can dance and worship simultaneously, celebrating Jesus’ birth with both reverence and joy. Play this while preparing Christmas breakfast or when family starts arriving. It sets a festive yet faith-filled tone.

9. Festizie ft. Chizie & Ajay – “Holiday”

Festizie brings fresh energy to Christmas music with “Holiday,” featuring Chizie and Ajay. This fast-rising gospel singer, songwriter, and performer understands how to blend celebration with spiritual meaning.

“Holiday” works beautifully on Christmas Day because it captures the dual nature of the season. Yes, it’s a holiday with family, food, and festivities. But the reason we’re celebrating is Jesus. The song manages both messages without feeling preachy or losing its festive appeal.

The collaboration with Chizie and Ajay adds layers to the track, creating harmonies and energy that make it engaging for listeners of all ages. It’s particularly good during meal times when you want background music that’s uplifting without demanding full attention.

For families with teenagers and young adults who might roll their eyes at older gospel styles, “Holiday” provides contemporary sound with solid spiritual content. It bridges generational preferences while keeping Christ central.

8. Gaise Baba – “We Outside”

Gaise Baba’s “We Outside” might seem like an unusual Christmas choice at first, but it perfectly captures the communal joy of the season. This song has hip hop energy and takes inspiration from 2000s Nigerian pop, creating something that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

The phrase “we outside” resonates with Nigerian Christmas culture where families come together, neighborhoods buzz with activity, and celebration spills into streets and compounds. It’s about community, visibility, and shared joy, all themes that align with Christmas gatherings.

What makes this track work for Christmas Day is its celebration of togetherness. The production incorporates traditional forms, giving it cultural depth while maintaining modern appeal. It’s the song that plays when family members arrive, when children run around excitedly, when the house fills with life and laughter.

Play “We Outside” during the afternoon when energy might be dipping. It revitalizes the atmosphere, getting people moving and reminding everyone why they traveled distances to be together. Community is central to both Nigerian culture and Christmas spirit, this song celebrates both.

7. Lawrence Oyor – “Favour”

Lawrence Oyor’s “Favour” shifts the playlist into worship territory. This powerful track focuses on God’s favor, a theme particularly meaningful as families reflect on the year ending and blessings received.

Oyor’s ministerial style brings depth to Christmas Day. While other songs on this list emphasize celebration, “Favour” creates space for gratitude and reflection. It’s the song that plays when family gathers before the meal, when prayers are offered, when thanksgiving fills hearts.

The production is rich without being overwhelming, allowing Oyor’s voice and message to shine. There’s something about acknowledging God’s favor on Christmas Day that feels especially appropriate. We’re celebrating the ultimate favor, God sending His son. Recognizing other favors flows naturally from that gratitude.

This song works beautifully during quieter moments. Early Christmas morning when only a few are awake. After the meal when stomachs are full and hearts are content. During evening reflection as the day winds down. “Favour” creates atmosphere for meaningful connection with God.

6. Moses Bliss ft. Neeja & SpotLite Nation – “E Dey Flow”

Moses Bliss continues his dominant run in Nigerian gospel music with “E Dey Flow,” featuring Neeja and SpotLite Nation. This collaboration also includes A-Jay Asika, Festizie, S.O.N Music, and Chizie, creating a powerful collective worship experience.

“E Dey Flow” translates roughly to “It’s flowing,” referencing blessings, anointing, and God’s goodness continuously pouring out. On Christmas Day, this message resonates deeply. Families experiencing God’s blessings together, traditions flowing from generation to generation, love and joy flowing through homes.

The track has infectious energy that builds throughout. It’s perfect for creating peak moments during your Christmas gathering. When you want everyone singing along, when you need energy lifted, when celebration reaches its height, “E Dey Flow” delivers.

Moses Bliss has become synonymous with contemporary Nigerian gospel excellence. His collaborations consistently elevate everyone involved, and this track demonstrates why he’s one of the most respected names in the genre. Christmas Day deserves this level of musical and spiritual quality.

5. Lawrence Oyor & Samuel Folabi – “Wait”

This collaboration between Lawrence Oyor and Samuel Folabi creates something powerfully searing. “Wait” draws from ministerial elements like chants and speaking in tongues, reflecting the vibrant Pentecostal church culture many Nigerian Christians know intimately.

The song is built on the biblical promise from Isaiah 40:31, “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.” On Christmas Day, this message speaks to everyone at different life stages. Those waiting for breakthrough, those waiting for answered prayers, those trusting God’s timing.

What makes “Wait” special is its musical depth. The production includes rock influenced drums and winding notes that drive the message deeper into listeners’ hearts. It’s not just a song you hear, it’s a song you experience.

Play “Wait” during worship moments on Christmas Day. When family gathers to pray together. When testimonies are shared about how God came through this year. When faith is strengthened through collective spiritual reflection. The song ministers in ways that simple celebration cannot.

The collaboration between Oyor and Folabi brings together two powerful voices in Nigerian gospel. Their combined ministerial gifting creates an atmosphere where worship transcends entertainment and becomes genuine spiritual encounter.

4. Mercy Chinwo – “My Lover (Live)”

Mercy Chinwo’s “My Lover (Live)” brings passionate worship to Christmas Day. This live recording captures the energy and intimacy of Mercy’s worship style, making listeners feel like they’re part of the service rather than just hearing a studio track.

Mercy Chinwo has become one of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel artists because her worship feels genuine. There’s no performance veneer, just pure expression of love for God. “My Lover” exemplifies this authenticity, creating space for personal worship even in group settings.

The live element adds spontaneity and rawness that studio recordings sometimes lack. You hear the crowd, the organic flow of worship, the moments where spirit leads rather than script. On Christmas Day, this authenticity elevates worship beyond routine into genuine encounter.

This song works perfectly during family worship times. When gathered around the tree, when sharing testimonies, when gratitude overflows. “My Lover” gives language to love for God that Christmas celebrates, acknowledging Jesus as beloved savior, friend, and king.

Mercy’s vocal ability means the song soars musically while remaining spiritually grounded. It’s impressive without being showy, powerful without overwhelming the message. Christmas Day worship needs this balance.

3. Moses Bliss & Theophilus Sunday – “Hallowed Be Thy Name”

Moses Bliss returns to our countdown, this time collaborating with Theophilus Sunday on “Hallowed Be Thy Name.” These two exceptionally gifted gospel singers, songwriters, and performers create something transcendent together.

The title references the Lord’s Prayer, immediately connecting to familiar liturgy while bringing fresh musical interpretation. On Christmas Day, praying “Hallowed be Thy name” carries extra weight. We’re honoring the name Jesus, Emmanuel, God with us, the name that changed human history.

The song’s production is rich and layered, befitting the weighty subject matter. Both Moses Bliss and Theophilus Sunday bring their A game vocally, creating harmonies and call-response patterns that engage listeners actively in worship.

Play “Hallowed Be Thy Name” during significant moments. Opening Christmas Day worship. Before the main meal. During evening devotion. Whenever you want to shift atmosphere from celebration into reverence, from joy into awe, this song delivers.

The collaboration shows what’s possible when anointed artists combine gifts for God’s glory. Neither competes for spotlight, both serve the song and message. That humility and unity models the Christmas spirit of harmony and peace.

2. Gause Baba – “No Turning Back II”

Gause Baba’s “No Turning Back II” became a 2025 TikTok smash and cultural phenomenon. The crowd vocals on its chorus gave life to the concept that devotion to God is too rewarding to abandon. By adapting youth language and social media culture, the message spread rapidly across platforms and demographics.

What makes this song perfect for Christmas Day is its declaration of commitment. Christmas celebrates God’s commitment to humanity through Jesus. “No Turning Back II” responds with human commitment back to God. It’s call and response, divine love and human dedication meeting in worship.

The drums are lively enough to coerce movement from anyone. It’s impossible to stay still when this track plays. On Christmas Day, when families need energy, when children want to dance, when joy needs physical expression, “No Turning Back II” provides the perfect soundtrack.

The song’s viral success means multiple generations recognize it. Grandparents might have heard it at church. Parents know it from social media. Children learned it from TikTok videos. That shared recognition creates unity across age gaps, making it ideal for family gatherings where everyone can participate.

Beyond its catchiness, the spiritual substance remains solid. Declaring “no turning back” after experiencing God’s goodness resonates deeply. On Christmas, remembering the gift of Jesus makes turning back unthinkable. This song gives voice to that conviction.

1. Esther Oji – “Merry Christmas”

Taking the top spot is Esther Oji’s “Merry Christmas,” a song specifically created to celebrate Jesus’ birth with joy, worship, and seasonal cheer. Released in 2025 under EeZee Global, this track captures everything Christmas Day should sound like.

Esther Oji’s vocal purity shines throughout the song. Her voice carries warmth and authenticity that makes the celebration feel genuine rather than commercial. The production blends contemporary gospel tones with festive elements like bells, soft percussion, and uplifting harmonies that instantly create Christmas atmosphere.

What elevates “Merry Christmas” above other holiday gospel songs is how it keeps Christ at the center while fully embracing seasonal joy. Too many Christmas songs lean entirely spiritual or entirely festive. Esther balances both perfectly, celebrating the holiday while worshiping the holy child whose birth we commemorate.

The lyrics remind listeners that Christmas transcends decorations and gifts. It’s a divine reminder of God’s gift to humanity. That message, delivered through Esther’s anointed voice and excellent production, makes this song the essential Christmas Day track.

Play “Merry Christmas” first thing Christmas morning. Let it be what your family wakes up to, what fills your home as presents are opened, what sets the tone for the entire day. The joy is infectious, the worship is genuine, and the Christmas spirit flows naturally.

For church celebrations, family gatherings, or quiet moments of personal reflection, this track works beautifully. It’s the rare Christmas song that sounds perfect at 6am and equally perfect at 10pm, that works for children and adults, that serves as background music or focal worship.

Esther Oji has given Nigerian Christians and gospel lovers worldwide a gift with this song. It’s destined to become a Christmas classic that families return to year after year, a track that defines what Christmas Day should sound like when Christ remains central to celebration.

Creating Your Christmas Day Playlist

These 10 songs provide a solid foundation for Christmas Day music, but customize your playlist to your family’s taste and worship style. Mix upbeat celebration with reflective worship. Include songs everyone knows alongside fresh tracks that introduce new sounds.

Consider the flow of your day when arranging songs. Start Christmas morning with joyful, energetic tracks like “Merry Christmas” and “Ayo (Joy To The World).” During meal preparation, let “Holiday” and “E Dey Flow” keep energy high. Before the main meal, shift to worship with “Hallowed Be Thy Name” or “Wait.”

After eating, when family is relaxed and content, play “My Lover” or “Favour” to create space for gratitude. As evening approaches and energy rises again with children playing, bring back “No Turning Back II” and “We Outside.”

Don’t feel obligated to play only Christmas-specific songs. Any gospel song celebrating God’s goodness, love, and salvation fits Christmas Day perfectly. Jesus is the reason for every song of praise, not just December songs.

Why Gospel Music Matters on Christmas

Christmas has become increasingly commercialized, with secular songs about snow, Santa, and shopping dominating playlists. While these songs are fun, they can’t capture Christmas’s spiritual core.

Gospel music brings focus back to Jesus. It reminds families why they’re gathering, what they’re celebrating, who deserves thanks. In homes where faith matters, gospel music on Christmas Day isn’t optional, it’s essential.

These songs also create atmosphere that secular music cannot. There’s power in worship music, spiritual authority that shifts environments and draws God’s presence. On the day celebrating Jesus’ birth, inviting His presence through worship music honors Him appropriately.

For children, consistent exposure to gospel music on Christmas teaches them the holiday’s true meaning. When Christmas always sounds like worship, not just jingle bells, they associate celebration with Christ naturally. That foundation influences their faith long term.

Support These Artists

Every artist on this list deserves support. Stream their music on Spotify, Apple Music, Audiomack, and other platforms. Buy their songs. Share their content on social media. Attend their concerts when possible.

Nigerian gospel artists often lack the financial backing secular artists receive. They rely heavily on support from believers who appreciate their ministry through music. Your streams, purchases, and sharing directly enable them to continue creating quality gospel music.

Consider these artists as ministers, not just entertainers. They’re serving God through music, bringing worship into homes and churches, creating soundtracks for spiritual encounters. Supporting them is supporting gospel ministry.

Make Christmas Day Worshipful

Use this playlist intentionally. Don’t just let music play in the background. Create moments where family pauses to truly worship together, singing along, raising hands, expressing gratitude.

Let these songs facilitate testimonies. After “Favour” plays, share how God showed favor this year. Following “Wait,” discuss prayers answered and those still trusting God’s timing. Allow “No Turning Back II” to prompt declarations of continued faith commitment.

Music is powerful. The right songs at the right moments can transform ordinary Christmas gatherings into spiritual experiences families remember forever. These 10 tracks provide that potential.

This Christmas Day, let gospel music fill your home. Let worship be your family’s soundtrack. Let celebration of Jesus’ birth sound exactly like what it should be: joyful, heartfelt, and completely focused on the King whose coming changed everything.