This holiday season is my favorite time of the year and if you are like me you may have even been listening before the Thanksgiving break. Because we are in full Christmas music swing, I thought it appropriate to give my 10 favorite holiday songs for you to enjoy.
1. “White Christmas,” Bing Crosby – 1942
It was hard to choose between this song and my second choice, but this wins with a slight edge. This song was released a year after the U.S. entered World War II and was a regular request throughout the rest of the war. Bing reprised the song in the 1954 musical “White Christmas.” Crosby is one of my favorite artists and his silky smooth voice really delivers in this classic.
2. “The Christmas Song,” Nat King Cole – 1946
Originally performed by Nat King Cole in 1946, the most popular and beloved version was recorded in 1961 “The Christmas Song” is a must in my musical rotation during the Christmas season. As soon as you hear the violins come in with the first note, you can settle in and prepare to sing along to one of the most beloved holiday songs of all time.
3. “Merry Christmas Darling,” The Carpenters – 1978
Karen Carpenter’s alto voice serenades you as she takes you on a journey wishing her darling a merry Christmas. It reminds me that after all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, we need to take the time to savor and enjoy the company of our friends and loved ones.
4. “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas,” Johnny Mathis – 1992
Every time I hear this song it reminds me of the scene in “Home Alone 2” where Kevin is heading out into the city of New York for the day. It makes me feel all happy inside.
5. “Angels We Have Heard on High,” Josh Groban with Brian McKnight – 2007
Josh Groban and Brian McKnight do a wonderful job combining the classic version of Groban’s voice with the more modern sound of McKnight’s. A close second to this version is Michael W Smith’s from his 1989 album “Christmas”.
6. “All Is Well,” Michael W. Smith featuring Carrie Underwood – 2014
I have to give my father-in-law credit with turning me onto this song. Michael W. Smith’s accompaniment along with the powerful vocals of Carrie Underwood will give you chills. It is a simply-worded song but very moving in its message about the birth of Christ.
7. “Christmas Time is Here,” – Vince Guaraldi Trio – 1965
Introduced during “A Charlie Brown Christmas” special that first aired in 1965, the soft melody throughout this song makes for some easy listening. If you have the time, check out the rest of the album. Guaraldi’s trio does a fantastic job of bringing jazz into the holiday season.
8. “Feliz Navidad,” Jose Feliciano – 1970
“Feliz Navidad” has become a staple throughout the holiday season and is enjoyed by millions all over the world.
9. “All I Want for Christmas,” Mariah Carey – 1994
Despite what she sounded like last year during her live performance, Mariah Carey’s original recording of “All I Want for Christmas” has now become a classic. Growing up with two sisters, this song was played a number of times during our Christmas celebrations, and I attribute this song being on this list to them.
10. “If Every Day Was Like Christmas,” Elvis Presley – 1957
It doesn’t get much smoother than Elvis’ this version of “If Every Day Was Like Christmas.” Starting off quiet and building to a big leading up to the chorus, this song is not one you hear to often, but it’s a nice little treat when you do.
