Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' has reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for its 19th week, tying the record for the longest-reigning chart-topper. Meanwhile, Wham!'s 'Last Christmas' has hit a new peak at No. 2 for the first time. This marks another strong holiday season for classic seasonal tracks on the chart dated December 13, 2025.
Chart Milestones
Mariah Carey's enduring holiday anthem 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' continues its dominance, securing the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 this week. This achievement brings its total weeks at No. 1 to 19, matching the record held by Lil Nas X's 'Old Town Road' featuring Billy Ray Cyrus and Shaboozey's 'A Bar Song (Tipsy)'. The song has topped the chart for at least one week each holiday season since 2019, highlighting its consistent seasonal appeal.
Just behind it, Wham!'s 'Last Christmas' has climbed to No. 2, marking its highest position ever on the Hot 100. Released over 40 years ago, the track has steadily improved its chart performance in recent holiday seasons, reaching this milestone in its fifth consecutive year of gains this decade.
Expert Perspectives
Billboard staffers shared insights on these developments. Katie Atkinson rated Carey's feat a perfect 10, noting how the singer reclaimed a record she first set nearly 30 years ago with 'One Sweet Day' alongside Boyz II Men. 'It's an unprecedented chart achievement,' Atkinson said. Jason Lipshutz called it a 9, emphasizing the song's role as the '800-pound gorilla' of holiday music.
On 'Last Christmas,' contributors praised its unique blend of pop craftsmanship and melancholy. Kyle Denis attributed its rise to its resonance with younger audiences seeking emotional depth in winter tunes, bolstered by George Michael's lasting legacy. Denise Warner highlighted its relatable theme of holiday heartbreak paired with '80s synths.
Future Outlook
Speculation abounds on whether 'Last Christmas' could overtake Carey's hit for No. 1. Some predict it might happen soon with targeted promotions, like remixes or media placements, especially around the song's 50th anniversary in 2034. Others see Carey's track maintaining its lead as the definitive holiday chart leader. Lower on the chart, tracks like Nat King Cole's 'The Christmas Song' have matched past peaks at No. 9, with potential to climb higher as the season progresses.