The Best Classic Christmas Music Albums You Need to Own
The magic of Christmas music is a timeless tradition that brings joy to people of all ages. As the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves surrounded by the familiar sounds and classics that have been passed down through generations. Among the many wonderful Christmas albums out there, some truly stand the test of time, becoming an integral part of our festive experiences.
From Bing Crosby’s smooth crooning to Ella Fitzgerald’s jazzy swing, and from Nat King Cole’s soothing piano to Michael Bublé’s modern flair, Christmas music has evolved over the years but retained its core essence. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane to revisit some of the most iconic and beloved classic Christmas music albums that have become an integral part of our holiday traditions.
We’ll explore the best classic Christmas music albums that have been delighting listeners for decades, featuring timeless tracks, memorable performances, and endearing storytelling. Whether you’re a nostalgic fan or just discovering these gems, this article will guide you through some of the most iconic and essential Christmas music releases that every holiday collection should own.
Top-Rated Christmas Albums of Yesteryear
For those who cherish the nostalgic charm of traditional Christmas music, there are several classic albums that have stood the test of time. Among these timeless treasures is Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” (1942), an album that perfectly encapsulates the warmth and coziness of a bygone era.
Bing Crosby’s soothing baritone voice and the lush orchestral arrangements create a serene atmosphere, making this album a staple in many holiday collections. Another iconic release from the 1940s is Ella Fitzgerald’s “Ella Wishes Christmas” (1960), which offers an enchanting blend of jazz and festive cheer. The album features Ella’s scintillating vocals, accompanied by swinging instrumental arrangements that add to its enduring appeal.
The 1950s saw the release of several Christmas albums that have become beloved classics. One such gem is Perry Como’s “Merry Christmas” (1953), which boasts a delightful mix of traditional and modern songs, all rendered with Perry’s signature warmth and charisma. Another standout from this era is Frank Sinatra’s “Christmas Songs by Frank Sinatra” (1957), an album that showcases Ol’ Blue Eyes’ smooth vocals and sophisticated style.
The 1960s also saw the emergence of some truly iconic Christmas albums. Andy Williams’ “The Andy Williams Christmas Album” (1963) is a heartwarming collection that features the crooner’s velvety voice and a range of festive favorites, from classic carols to modern pop tunes. Another holiday treasure from this era is Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” (1960), which boasts a sublime blend of jazz and classical music.
Lastly, no discussion of classic Christmas albums would be complete without mentioning the inimitable Vince Guaraldi Trio’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965). This timeless album has become synonymous with the holiday season, thanks to its unique blend of jazz and whimsical charm. The music is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, making it a true masterpiece that continues to delight audiences to this day.
Timeless Holiday Classics that Never Fade
The Best Classic Christmas Music Albums You Need to Own
As the holiday season approaches, many of us turn to our favorite Christmas music albums for inspiration and nostalgia. Among these timeless classics are a few that have stood the test of time, continuing to delight audiences with their enchanting melodies and festive spirit. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic and enduring classic Christmas music albums of all time.
One such treasure is Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” (1942), featuring timeless renditions of holiday staples like “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bells,” and, of course, the title track. This album has been a staple in many American households for generations, with Crosby’s smooth vocals effortlessly transporting listeners to a bygone era. With its elegant arrangements and masterful delivery, this album is an absolute must-have for any Christmas music collection.
Another all-time favorite is Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” (1960), which showcases the legendary singer’s signature style on classic tracks like “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” and “O Holy Night.” With its lush orchestration and Cole’s velvety vocals, this album exudes a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for cozy holiday gatherings. Don’t miss his soulful take on “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” – it’s simply divine.
Frank Sinatra’s “A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra” (1957) is another vintage gem that’s sure to get your holiday party started. This album features Ol’ Blue Eyes delivering spirited performances of festive favorites like “Jingle Bells,” “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” and “The Christmas Blues.” With its swinging rhythms, sophisticated arrangements, and Sinatra’s signature smoothness, this record is an absolute treasure for jazz aficionados and holiday enthusiasts alike.
For a more nostalgic take on the season, consider Perry Como’s “Merry Christmas” (1953), which captures the simple joys of Christmastime with warm renditions of beloved carols like “Silent Night,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” and “Deck the Halls.” With its quaint arrangements and Como’s endearing vocals, this album feels like a stroll down memory lane – a reminder of the innocence and magic that defines the holiday season. Be sure to savor his heartfelt take on “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” – it’s a true classic.
Lastly, no discussion of classic Christmas music albums would be complete without mentioning Ella Fitzgerald’s “Ella Wishes Christmas Joy” (1960), which showcases the legendary songbird’s inimitable style on festive tracks like “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” and “Jingle Bells.” With its lively arrangements, virtuosic vocals, and infectious enthusiasm, this album embodies the joyous spirit of the holiday season – a perfect choice for those seeking a spirited, swinging take on Christmas classics.
Legendary Artists Bring Christmas Cheer
The best classic Christmas music albums are those that have stood the test of time, transporting listeners to a bygone era of joy and festivity. Among these timeless treasures is Bing Crosby’s “Merry Christmas” (1942), a seminal work that set the standard for all subsequent holiday albums.
Another benchmark of excellence is Frank Sinatra’s “Christmas Songs by Frank Sinatra” (1957), which captures the smooth, velvety tone and effortless charm that defined Ol’ Blue Eyes. This album features some of Sinatra’s most beloved Yuletide tunes, including “Jingle Bells,” “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!”, and a memorable rendition of “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)”.
The 1960s saw the emergence of new holiday classics, none more iconic than Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Album” (1963). Featuring a mix of traditional carols (“Silent Night,” “Joy to the World”) and modern songs (“The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot”), this album showcases Cole’s soothing baritone voice and impeccable phrasing. His take on “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is particularly noteworthy, blending gentle swing rhythms with poignant emotional depth.
For many, the epitome of Christmas music is Ella Fitzgerald’s “Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas” (1960). This album offers an exuberant, effervescent blend of jazz and holiday cheer, as the First Lady of Song brings her characteristic virtuosity to beloved standards like “Sleigh Ride,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Winter Wonderland.” Her voice soars with unbridled joy on these tracks, conjuring images of snowflakes dancing in the air.
Another gem from the same era is Andy Williams’ “The Andy Williams Christmas Album” (1963), a heartwarming collection that distills the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season. Featuring Williams’ signature warm, inviting delivery, this album includes timeless favorites like “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and a poignant rendition of “The Little Drummer Boy.” Each track is imbued with a sense of authenticity, as if Williams himself were sitting in your living room, sharing tales of Christmases past.
Lastly, no discussion of classic holiday albums would be complete without mention of Perry Como’s “Merry Christmas” (1953), an enchanting work that embodies the festive spirit of the season. With its warm, gentle glow and delightful blend of traditional carols (“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”) and modern songs (“Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”), this album will leave listeners feeling cozy and content.
Essential Listening for a Festive Season
Christmas music albums have been a staple of holiday seasons for decades, providing a soundtrack to festive gatherings, family traditions, and cozy winter nights. Among the countless offerings, some classic Christmas music albums stand out for their timeless charm, musicality, and emotional resonance.
The Vince Guaraldi Trio’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965) is a masterclass in understated elegance. This iconic album has been woven into the fabric of holiday culture, its jazz-infused renditions of Christmas standards like “Linus and Lucy” and “Christmas Time Is Here” evoking memories of bygone eras.
Bing Crosby’s “Merry Christmas” (1952) is another milestone in Christmas music history. Featuring a smooth, velvety voice and timeless arrangements, this collection includes the iconic duet with David Whitfield on “The Bells of St. Mary’s,” which has become an anthem for many.
For those who crave a more vintage, nostalgia-tinged experience, Ella Fitzgerald’s “Ella Wishes Christmas” (1960) and Frank Sinatra’s “A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra” (1957) are must-listen albums. Ella’s lush vocals and swinging arrangements bring an air of sophistication to traditional carols, while Ol’ Blue Eyes’ warm baritone and jazz-influenced takes on holiday classics create a cozy atmosphere.
The Beach Boys’ “A Christmas Album” (1964) is often overlooked in favor of more well-known seasonal offerings. However, this album’s harmonies are nothing short of sublime, as the band delivers gentle, sun-kissed renditions of Christmas staples like “Little Saint Nick” and a hauntingly beautiful “We Three Kings.”
Lastly, Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Album” (1961) is a breathtaking collection that embodies the spirit of classic Hollywood holiday charm. Featuring the smooth baritone vocals of Nat King Cole, this album offers an intimate, sophisticated take on beloved carols and Christmas standards.
The Most Iconic Christmas Album Covers of All
The Most Iconic Christmas Album Covers of All
Christmas albums have been around for decades, but some of them stand out from the rest due to their iconic covers. One such album is “Elvis’ Christmas Album” released in 1957, featuring a striking image of Elvis Presley himself wearing a Santa hat and holding a guitar. This image has become synonymous with holiday cheer and has been parodied countless times.
Another classic album cover that comes to mind is the one for “A Charlie Brown Christmas” by the Vince Guaraldi Trio in 1965. The simple yet elegant design features a picture of Linus from the Peanuts comic strip holding his security blanket, which adds a touch of warmth and nostalgia to the overall aesthetic. This album’s cover has been widely imitated but never replicated.
For fans of jazz, “A Jazzy Christmas” by Count Basie & His Orchestra is an absolute must-listen. The album’s cover features a beautiful illustration of the iconic jazz musician himself, which perfectly captures his style and charisma. Released in 1961, this album has stood the test of time and remains one of the best jazz albums for the holiday season.
“Merry Christmas” by Mariah Carey is another album that boasts an unforgettable cover. Featuring a stunning image of Mariah herself surrounded by snowflakes and festive lights, the design exudes elegance and sophistication. This album was released in 1994 and remains one of the best-selling Christmas albums of all time.
Lastly, “A Very Special Christmas” by various artists is an iconic compilation that features some of the most talented musicians of our time performing holiday classics. The cover art, featuring a stunning image of snow-covered trees and sparkling lights, perfectly captures the magic of the season. This album has become a staple in many households during the holiday season.
As we conclude our journey through the best classic Christmas music albums of all time, it’s clear that these timeless records have stood the test of time, bringing joy and festive cheer to generations of music lovers. From Bing Crosby’s velvety vocals on “White Christmas” to Ella Fitzgerald’s swinging renditions of holiday classics, these albums have captured the essence of the season in a way that continues to captivate us today.
The albums featured in this article are more than just collections of songs – they’re a window into a bygone era, a time when music was a shared experience and the joy of Christmas was something to be savored and celebrated. Whether you’re a nostalgic fan of classic crooners or a modern-day enthusiast of holiday tunes, these albums are sure to bring a smile to your face and a touch of magic to your holiday season.
So, as we get ready to deck the halls and jingle our bells, remember that the best Christmas music is timeless – it’s not just about the year it was released or the latest trends in holiday music. It’s about creating memories, fostering traditions, and spreading love and cheer to those around us. So go ahead, dig out your favorite classic Christmas album (or download one of these incredible records), put on a pair of cozy slippers, and let the festive spirit wash over you – your family, friends, and loved ones will thank you!