Study Reveals the Christmas Songs Most Likely to Distract Drivers

Fast Beats, Festive Tunes — and a Holiday Driving Risk

Holiday music may set the mood for the season, but according to a new analysis, some Christmas favorites could be pulling drivers’ focus from the road. Bader Law reviewed 200 of Spotify’s top holiday tracks, comparing them to the ideal driving tempo — 50 to 80 beats per minute (BPM) — a range known to help listeners stay calm, alert, and in an “alpha state” that supports concentration. Many Christmas classics, however, clock in far above that threshold.

Ariana Grande Tops the List of Most Distracting Songs

The study identifies Ariana Grande’s high-tempo cover of “Last Christmas” as the most distracting holiday song for drivers, soaring at 205.95 BPM. Grande appears again at No. 7 with “Santa Tell Me,” another festive hit with a rapid tempo. Nat King Cole, Shakin’ Stevens, Andy Williams, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra also appear on the top-ten list, all featuring tracks that surpass 185 BPM — more than double the recommended focus range.

Why High-Tempo Songs Matter Behind the Wheel

Seth Bader, founder of Bader Law, emphasized the importance of driver awareness during the holidays, noting darker nights, increased alcohol-related incidents, and heavy travel. Fast-paced music can elevate heart rate, speed up reaction patterns, and unintentionally encourage riskier driving behaviors. When layered onto already-busy winter roads, the distraction potential grows.

Holiday Favorites Still Loved — But Better Played at Home

Even “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey — a seasonal staple — sits above the focus threshold at 150 BPM. While not in the top ten, it still exceeds the tempo associated with safe, steady driving.

The takeaway? Save the fast-tempo festive jams for decorating or baking cookies — and keep slower classics on your holiday road-trip playlist.