Christmas music is an integral part of the holiday season, evoking feelings of nostalgia, joy, and warmth. From classic crooners to modern-day pop stars, many talented artists have released Christmas albums that have become staples of the season. Here, we'll explore the best Christmas albums of all time, ranking them based on their impact, popularity, and enduring appeal.
The tradition of Christmas music dates back centuries, with carols and hymns being sung in churches and homes during the holiday season. However, the modern concept of a Christmas album as we know it today began to take shape in the mid-20th century. Artists like Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra released Christmas albums that set the standard for future generations.
Ranking the Best Christmas Albums of All Time
From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, we'll count down the top Christmas albums of all time. Whether you're a fan of traditional carols, jazz standards, or contemporary pop, there's something on this list for everyone.
25. Celine Dion - These Are Special Times (1998)
Celine Dion's Christmas album is a beautiful blend of traditional and modern songs, showcasing her incredible vocal range and emotional delivery. Standout tracks include "O Holy Night" and "The Christmas Song."
The Classics
24. Ella Fitzgerald - Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas (1960)
Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album is a jazz masterpiece, featuring her iconic vocal style and impressive scat singing. Tracks like "Sleigh Ride" and "Winter Wonderland" are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
23. Frank Sinatra - A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra (1957)
Ol' Blue Eyes brings his signature style to the holiday season with this classic Christmas album. Featuring timeless tracks like "Jingle Bells" and "White Christmas," this album is a must-listen for any Sinatra fan.
Modern Favorites
22. Mariah Carey - Merry Christmas (1994)
Mariah Carey's Christmas album is a modern classic, featuring her iconic hit "All I Want for Christmas Is You." This album is a fun and festive blend of original songs and traditional carols.
21. Michael Bublé - Christmas (2011)
Michael Bublé's Christmas album is a contemporary take on the holiday season, featuring his smooth vocals and jazzy arrangements. Tracks like "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" are sure to get you in the mood.
The Country Connection
20. Dolly Parton - Home for Christmas (1990)
Dolly Parton's Christmas album is a country classic, featuring her iconic vocals and heartfelt songwriting. Tracks like "Hard Candy Christmas" and "Christmas Without You" are sure to tug at your heartstrings.
19. Willie Nelson - Pretty Paper (1979)
Willie Nelson's Christmas album is a country music staple, featuring his unique vocals and poignant songwriting. Tracks like "Pretty Paper" and "White Christmas" are sure to become holiday favorites.
The Top 10
10. Nat King Cole - The Christmas Song (1946)
Nat King Cole's Christmas album is a timeless classic, featuring his smooth vocals and elegant arrangements. Tracks like "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)" and "Silent Night" are sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
9. Bing Crosby - White Christmas (1942)
Bing Crosby's Christmas album is a holiday classic, featuring his iconic vocals and timeless songs. Tracks like "White Christmas" and "Jingle Bells" are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
8. Andy Williams - The Andy Williams Christmas Album (1963)
Andy Williams' Christmas album is a beautifully crafted collection of holiday songs, featuring his smooth vocals and elegant arrangements. Tracks like "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" and "Winter Wonderland" are sure to become holiday favorites.
7. Dean Martin - A Winter Romance (1959)
Dean Martin's Christmas album is a fun and festive collection of holiday songs, featuring his smooth vocals and playful style. Tracks like "A Marshmallow World" and "I'll Be Home for Christmas" are sure to get you in the mood.
6. Tony Bennett - Snowfall: The Tony Bennett Christmas Album (1968)
Tony Bennett's Christmas album is a beautifully crafted collection of holiday songs, featuring his iconic vocals and elegant arrangements. Tracks like "Winter Wonderland" and "I'll Be Home for Christmas" are sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
5. Josh Groban - Noël (2007)
Josh Groban's Christmas album is a modern classic, featuring his powerful vocals and beautifully crafted arrangements. Tracks like "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" and "Believe" are sure to become holiday favorites.
4. Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Christmas Eve and Other Stories (1996)
Trans-Siberian Orchestra's Christmas album is a beautifully crafted collection of holiday songs, featuring their iconic arrangements and powerful vocals. Tracks like "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" and "A Mad Russian's Christmas" are sure to evoke feelings of wonder and magic.
3. Vince Guaraldi Trio - A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Vince Guaraldi Trio's Christmas album is a timeless classic, featuring their iconic jazz arrangements and poignant songwriting. Tracks like "Linus and Lucy" and "Christmas Time Is Here" are sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
2. Elvis Presley - Elvis' Christmas Album (1957)
Elvis Presley's Christmas album is a rock 'n' roll classic, featuring his iconic vocals and fun arrangements. Tracks like "Santa Claus Is Back in Town" and "Blue Christmas" are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
1. Bing Crosby - Merry Christmas (1942)
Bing Crosby's Christmas album is a holiday classic, featuring his iconic vocals and timeless songs. Tracks like "White Christmas" and "Silent Night" are sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, making this album the best Christmas album of all time.
There you have it - the best Christmas albums of all time, ranked and ready to get you in the holiday spirit. Whether you're a fan of classic crooners, modern pop stars, or country music staples, there's something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, put on your favorite Christmas album, and let the festive fun begin!
What is the most popular Christmas album of all time?
+According to various sources, including the Guinness Book of World Records, Bing Crosby's "Merry Christmas" album is the best-selling Christmas album of all time, with estimated sales of over 50 million copies worldwide.
What is the most popular Christmas song of all time?
+According to various sources, including Billboard and the Guinness Book of World Records, "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby is the best-selling Christmas song of all time, with estimated sales of over 50 million copies worldwide.
What is the most popular Christmas album of the modern era?
+According to various sources, including Billboard and the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), Mariah Carey's "Merry Christmas" album is the best-selling Christmas album of the modern era, with estimated sales of over 15 million copies worldwide.