Holiday Songs That Keep the Beat for CPR
December 15, 2025By: Mary Jo Quintero, RN, PLN, CCRN, CPN
Categories: Safety and Injury Prevention
The holidays are full of music, joy and celebration, but did you know some of your favorite festive tunes can help save lives? When it comes to performing CPR, timing is everything. Whether you are a trained professional or a bystander, music can help keep rhythm to ensure compressions meet the beats per minute (BPM) required for effective CPR. This holiday season, you can save lives while spreading cheer by knowing the festive tunes that match the perfect CPR tempo.
Here’s a curated list of holiday songs that fall within the ideal BPM range!

Always Remember
This list should be used as a helpful guide to identify songs with the correct BPMs for CPR. It does NOT replace formal CPR training. To learn more about CPR trainings near you, visit the Red Cross.
Why It Matters
When emergencies happen, every second counts. Keeping the right rhythm during chest compressions can significantly improve survival rates. So, whether you’re at a holiday party or just enjoying seasonal tunes, remember: these songs aren’t just festive; they can help save lives.
Pro Tip: Create a CPR playlist with these tracks so you’re always prepared. It’s a great way to combine holiday spirit with lifesaving skills!