I have always loved Christmas. The lights, the nostalgia, the snow (when I’m home in Michigan), and most of all, the music. While Michael Bublé and Mariah Carey definitely have a time and place, a classic, jazzy Christmas makes the cold days warmer. If you are looking to revamp your holiday playlist into a softer, more classic version of itself, here are a couple of songs I am currently in love with.
christmas magic – laufey
Laufey didn’t just stop at great jazz pop; she has also released some fantastic Christmas covers and originals. Out of all her Christmas songs, this one is a personal favorite. Beautiful strings, bells, and a touch of brass make this an enjoyable Christmas song that feels like it could be performed in a jazz club. As Laufey’s least-played Christmas song, I urge you to give it a little love this season.
O Tannenbaum – Vince Guaraldi Trio
Christmas is never complete without a viewing of A Charlie Brown Christmas, and this song brings out all the memories associated with it. This instrumental is the perfect piece to play while decorating the tree, having a nice dinner, or opening presents. It adds a warm feeling without being overly on-the-nose as a Christmas song, making it an essential for any holiday playlist.
I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm – Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong
This cover, performed by jazz stars Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, captures the feeling of being surrounded by the people you love during the holiday season. While not specifically a Christmas song, it brings cheer through its upbeat tempo and talented vocals. If you are in love this holiday season, this one is definitely worth a listen.
Winter Wonderland – Darlene Love
While there are many covers of “Winter Wonderland,” this version by Darlene Love is one of the best. I can’t speak for anyone else, but this song makes me feel like I’m shopping for Christmas gifts and outfits in a beautifully decorated department store in the 1980s. Even if that isn’t your experience, it is still a gorgeous cover with classic Christmas vocals.
blue christmas – dean martin
While the most popular version of this song comes from Elvis Presley, I’ve grown especially fond of Dean Martin’s cover. I love the softer feel of his version compared to Elvis’s sharper delivery. The gentle background vocals blend beautifully with the orchestra and complement Dean Martin’s voice. He performs this song wonderfully, as well as the rest of the Christmas covers on this album.
white christmas – frank sinatra
Would you really have a classic jazz Christmas playlist without a little Frank Sinatra? This is yet another popular Christmas song with countless covers, but Frank Sinatra does it like no other. The vocals and percussion are very gentle, making this an especially calming rendition of “White Christmas.” I love the intro with the church bells and the swell of the string instruments. This version makes it feel like you’re experiencing a magical winter, even if a white Christmas is unlikely where you live.
Overall, I hope the addition of these songs makes your holiday season a little more cheerful. Whether you’re baking cookies, decorating the tree, going ice skating, or hosting a fancy dinner, these songs are sure to make your home feel special this season. Happy holiday season to all who celebrate!