As the year-end approaches, many workplaces fill with festive music intended to lift spirits and celebrate the holiday season. However, new research highlights that not all holiday songs have the same effect on employee productivity. The tempo of these songs, measured in beats per minute (BPM), can either support focus or increase stress, impacting how well employees complete their tasks during a busy time.
Data shows that Google searches for “Christmas playlist 2025” surged by 550% in a single week, indicating a growing interest in holiday music at work. Yet, according to a study by TopResume, some popular fast-tempo holiday songs may actually hinder concentration and raise stress levels. Songs with a BPM higher than 150 tend to disrupt deep work by making task switching harder and increasing cognitive load.
For example, Ariana Grande’s version of “Last Christmas” has a BPM of 206, which is more than three times the recommended tempo for focused work. Other energetic tracks such as Bing Crosby’s “Mele Kalikimaka,” Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” and Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” also fall into this high-tempo category and are linked with decreased productivity.
Conversely, slower-tempo classics from the mid-20th century appear to help maintain concentration while still providing a festive atmosphere. Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” with its calming 67 BPM, is an example of a song that fits within the ideal range of 60–80 BPM for supporting cognitive focus. Other artists like Nat King Cole, Whitney Houston, Vince Guaraldi Trio, and Ella Fitzgerald are noted for their soothing rhythms that help employees stay productive without sacrificing holiday cheer.
Given the pressures employees face at the end of the year—including tighter deadlines, personal commitments, and shorter daylight hours—employers are encouraged to be mindful about their office music choices. Strategies such as scheduling periods for quiet work without music or using instrumental holiday playlists can reduce distractions while maintaining a pleasant environment.
Additionally, providing noise-canceling headphones for employees who prefer silence can further support well-being and productivity during this demanding season. Human resources and benefits leaders can use these simple adjustments to balance holiday spirit with work demands effectively.
Amanda Augustine, a career expert at TopResume, emphasizes that small changes in office soundtracks can make a significant difference. Creating curated playlists with appropriate tempos or designating specific times for festive music helps keep employees focused and less stressed as they navigate year-end responsibilities.
In summary, while songs about work and holiday tunes are common in offices during December, their impact on productivity varies widely based on tempo. Employers who understand these effects can create a healthier workplace atmosphere that supports both morale and efficiency during one of the busiest times of the year.
