The race for the Christmas number one in 2020 is proving to be one of the most exciting in years, despite the challenging tone of the year. According to the Official Charts Company, the festive music season is shaping up to be the most competitive on record, with a surge in streaming of Christmas classics and a healthy slate of new releases.
Mariah Carey's perennial hit 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' is on course to reach number one for the first time in the UK, 26 years after its release. However, she faces stiff competition from Liam Gallagher's charity single 'All You're Dreaming Of', which is already a high new entry and could swoop in to claim the top spot. Other contenders include Justin Bieber's cover of 'Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree' and Jess Glynne's reimagining of 'This Christmas'.
The race also features a heartwarming entry from care home resident Margaret Mackie, who has joined the fray with her version of 'White Christmas'. The Official Charts spokesperson noted that the British public is turning to festive music for cheer, with streaming of Christmas classics up 45% year on year.
The official Christmas number one race begins on December 18, with physical releases like limited edition vinyl of Liam Gallagher's single adding to the excitement. The spokesperson concluded that December 2020 is shaping up to be the most festive Christmas season on record.
