Holiday Music That Hurts Focus

Holiday music can boost morale at work—but according to new research, it can also quietly destroy productivity. A recent analysis by TopResume found that the tempo of Christmas songs plays a major role in whether employees stay focused or get completely derailed during the workday.

Why Beats Per Minute Matter at Work

The key metric is BPM, or beats per minute. Research shows that songs with a BPM above 150 increase cognitive load, elevate stress responses, and make it harder to concentrate or switch tasks. In contrast, music in the 60–80 BPM range supports steady focus and sustained productivity—especially during deep work.

Using data from Spotify, TopResume analyzed the most popular Christmas songs and ranked them by tempo to identify which tracks are most likely to sabotage office concentration.

The Most Distracting Christmas Songs

At the top of the distraction list is Ariana Grande’s “Last Christmas,” clocking in at a staggering 206 BPM—more than triple the recommended tempo for focus. Close behind are festive favorites like “Mele Kalikimaka” by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters, “Merry Christmas Everyone” by Shakin’ Stevens, and Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” all pushing past 200 BPM.

High-energy tracks from Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Eagles, and Céline Dion also made the list, proving that even beloved classics can overwhelm the brain during busy work hours.

The Best Christmas Songs for Productivity

On the flip side, slower classics shine. Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” ranks as the most productivity-friendly Christmas song at just 67 BPM. Nat King Cole, Whitney Houston, Vince Guaraldi Trio, and Ella Fitzgerald also dominate the focus-friendly list with smooth, steady-tempo tracks that keep the holiday spirit alive without overwhelming employees.

The takeaway? A thoughtful holiday playlist can keep offices both merry and productive.