I don’t care what anyone says – as soon as there is a chill in the air, it’s Christmas season. Although it may be extreme, I start listening to Christmas music in October because why would I deny myself holiday cheer? So, here are some of my favorite albums to get into the holiday spirit!
“Christmas Portrait” (1978) by Carpenters
This is the best Christmas album of all time, and I will stand by that. Karen Carpenter – you will always be famous to me. Her voice is so angelic and emotionally resonant, and this album is perfectly nostalgic and fun. I love the orchestral songs, and the background harmonies are actually so wonderful. You can never go wrong with this album.
Best songs
“Merry Christmas, Darling”
“Christmas Waltz”
“(There’s No Place Like) Home For The Holidays”
“Brand New Year” (2000) by SHeDAISY
Okay- I am not a big country music fan, but this album is so nostalgic to me. It is the perfect encapsulation of 90’s female country with many unreal original songs. SHeDAISY even wrote a New Year’s song. Hello? This album reaches a level of creativity that is so delightful. I can admit that some of the songs are a bit out of the box, but you really just have to be open to the experience. This album is perfect when you want to sing, dance, and be merry.
Best songs
“Brand New Year (My Revolution)”
“Santa’s Got A Brand New Bag”
“Jingle Bells”
“Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas” (1960) by Ella Fitzgerald
This album is a jazz Christmas classic, and Ella Fitzgerald has such a smooth and beautiful voice. I really love Ella and her band’s musicianship, and there are always little things you can notice when you listen to her music. There are some alternate takes at the end of the album that are really fun. This is a perfect listen for a chilly winter night, a dinner party, or when you’re just feeling the jazzy vibe.
Best songs
“Sleigh Ride”
“Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”
“Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!”
“So Much Wine” (2022) by Phoebe Bridgers
This isn’t an album, it’s an EP, but it had to be included. I love an unexpected take on classic songs, and Phoebe Bridgers does that so well. Honestly, I listen to this EP year-round, but it’s perfect when you’re in a pensive, sad girl Christmas mood.
Best songs
“So Much Wine”
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”
“7 O’Clock News / Silent Night”
“The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album” (1964) by The Beach Boys
This is a great, feel-good Christmas album. I also love any boy band, and their harmonies are amazing. This album is perfect for having a chill night in with your friends, snuggling up with some hot cocoa and cookies.
Best songs
“Little Saint Nick”
“Merry Christmas, Baby”
“White Christmas”
“Merry Christmas” (1994) by Mariah Carey
It’s time!! Mariah Carey is undeniably the queen of Christmas. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” must be the most iconic Christmas song of all time, and this album stands for itself. Specifically in the early Christmas season, this album is perfect for getting you in the Christmas spirit.
Best songs
“All I Want for Christmas Is You”
“Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”
“Joy to the World”
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965) by Vince Guaraldi Trio
The Charlie Brown Christmas special is a must-watch every year, and the music will always be iconic. Despite your views on Christmas and Christmas music, I feel like everyone can agree that this album is great. I love listening to this album when I want a more low-key or instrumental Christmas vibe, and it is great as background music while you’re studying!
Best songs
“Skating”
“Greensleeves”
“Christmas Time Is Here”