Science Reveals Top 25 Christmas Songs for a Stress-Free Drive

A leading music psychologist has harnessed science to compile the definitive collection of festive tunes, promising to guarantee smiles and ease the strain of Christmas travel. Dr Claire Renfrew dedicated hours to analysing songs against a specific scientific formula to create the 'World's Happiest Christmas Car Playlist by Fiat'.

The Science Behind the Festive Cheer

So, what exactly makes a Christmas song scientifically joyful? According to Dr Renfrew's research, the most uplifting festive tracks share several key characteristics. The formula dictates they should be in a major key, feature energetic vocals and instruments, maintain a tempo between 100 and 140 beats per minute, and include a simple, catchy chorus. These elements work together to stimulate dopamine release, effectively boosting mood and reducing stress.

Intriguingly, while a poll of 2,000 drivers found that 45% said Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' brought them the most joy, it did not top the scientific ranking. That honour goes to Brenda Lee's classic, 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree', which ticked every box of the formula most effectively.

The Ultimate 25-Track Playlist for Your Journey

The resulting playlist, freely available on Spotify, features 25 tracks rigorously ranked by their adherence to the happiness formula. Following Brenda Lee in the top five are José Feliciano's 'Feliz Navidad', Bobby Helms' 'Jingle Bell Rock', Michael Bublé's 'Holly Jolly Christmas', and Wizzard's 'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday'.

The research, commissioned by FIAT UK, comes alongside insights into the nation's festive travel habits. A poll conducted by OnePoll.com revealed that 54% of people driving home for Christmas consider it one of the best moments of the season. However, the joy is often tempered by stress, with 47% admitting it's the most stressful time to be on the roads.

Music as a Tool for Festive Well-being

Dr Renfrew emphasised the powerful psychological impact of the right music. "Christmas songs can have a surprisingly powerful positive impact on us psychologically," she said. "Not only do Christmas songs boost our moods, they reduce stress, evoke nostalgia, enhance social bonding, increase energy, trigger joyful anticipation, and improve emotional regulation."

Victoria Hatfield from FIAT UK, which launched the study after introducing its Grande Panda model in the UK, stated: "Happiness is part of our brand ethos and we believe that driving home for Christmas doesn't need to be stressful, but should be celebrated as the start of the festive period." She added that with the right playlist and plans, drivers can enjoy a "magical and stress-free drive home ahead of the big day."

The full, scientifically-ranked 'World's Happiest Christmas Car Playlist' is as follows: