The first recorded Christmas song was written in the 16th century by a British priest named John Mason Neale. The song, "The First Noel," was based on an old English folk tune and is still widely sung today. Other popular Christmas songs such as "O Holy Night" and "Silent Night" were also written in the 19th century. Over the years, Christmas music has become a beloved part of the holiday season, with countless songs and carols being composed and performed each year.