Every year ahead of the Christmas season, the top spots on global music charts are dominated by carols from “legendary pop singers,” a trend that has persisted. Even global pop icons like Taylor Swift ...

"The Wassail Bowl," printed in The Illustrated London News on Dec. 22, 1860. Going door to door and offering a song or performance in exchange for a drink or money is a centuries-old English custom.

Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra sing during the taping of "The Dean Martin Variety Show" circa 1967 in Hollywood, California. The list spans decades, beginning with 19th-century carols and leading into ...