Big Band Christmas Albums For A Swinging Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with some classic Big Band Christmas albums? The sounds of swing, jazz, and big band music are the perfect accompaniment to a festive holiday season. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best Big Band Christmas albums that are sure to get you swinging into the holiday spirit.

From the nostalgic sounds of Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra to the modern-day big bands, we'll explore the world of Big Band Christmas music and highlight some of the most iconic and swinging albums that will make your holiday season merry and bright.

The Golden Age of Big Band Christmas Music

The 1940s and 1950s are often referred to as the Golden Age of Big Band music. This was the era when iconic vocalists like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin dominated the airwaves with their smooth, velvety voices and charming stage presence. Their Christmas albums are still widely popular today, and for good reason. These albums capture the magic and nostalgia of the holiday season like no other.

Bing Crosby's "Merry Christmas" (1942) is one of the most iconic Christmas albums of all time. Featuring Crosby's smooth vocals and the lush sounds of the John Scott Trotter Orchestra, this album is a masterclass in holiday music. From the classic "White Christmas" to the swinging "Jingle Bells," this album is a must-listen for any holiday music fan.

Frank Sinatra's "A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra" (1957) is another standout album from the Golden Age of Big Band music. Featuring Sinatra's signature smooth vocals and the lush arrangements of the Nelson Riddle Orchestra, this album is a swinging holiday classic. From the upbeat "Jingle Bells" to the nostalgic "I'll Be Home for Christmas," this album is a holiday treat.

The Big Band Christmas Sound

So what makes Big Band Christmas music so special? For starters, it's the combination of lush orchestral arrangements, swinging rhythms, and smooth vocals that create a unique and festive sound. Big Band Christmas music is all about capturing the magic and nostalgia of the holiday season, and the best albums do just that.

The key to a great Big Band Christmas album is a combination of factors. First, you need a talented vocalist who can bring the lyrics to life. Second, you need a top-notch orchestra that can provide the lush arrangements and swinging rhythms. Finally, you need a selection of holiday songs that are both classic and timeless.

When these factors come together, the result is a Big Band Christmas album that is truly special. From the opening notes of the first song, you'll be transported to a bygone era of holiday magic and nostalgia.

Modern-Day Big Band Christmas Albums

While the Golden Age of Big Band music may be behind us, there are still plenty of modern-day big bands and vocalists who are carrying on the tradition of Big Band Christmas music. One of the most notable is Harry Connick Jr., who has released several Big Band Christmas albums over the years.

Connick's "When My Heart Finds Christmas" (1993) is a standout album that features his smooth vocals and the lush arrangements of his big band. From the swinging "Sleigh Ride" to the nostalgic "Winter Wonderland," this album is a modern-day Big Band Christmas classic.

Another modern-day big band that is worth checking out is the Brian Setzer Orchestra. Their "Boogie Woogie Christmas" (2002) album is a high-energy holiday romp that features Setzer's signature guitar playing and the swinging rhythms of his orchestra. From the upbeat "Jingle Bells" to the nostalgic "Winter Wonderland," this album is a holiday treat.

More Big Band Christmas Albums to Check Out

If you're looking for more Big Band Christmas albums to add to your holiday playlist, here are a few more recommendations:

• Dean Martin's "A Winter Romance" (1959)
• Ella Fitzgerald's "Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas" (1960)
• Louis Armstrong's "Louis Armstrong and His Friends" (1970)
• The Andrews Sisters' "Christmas with the Andrews Sisters" (1995)
• The Count Basie Orchestra's "A Swingin' Christmas" (1995)

These albums are all classics in their own right, and are sure to provide the perfect soundtrack for your holiday season.

The Benefits of Big Band Christmas Music

So why should you listen to Big Band Christmas music? For starters, it's a great way to get into the holiday spirit. There's something about the combination of lush orchestral arrangements, swinging rhythms, and smooth vocals that just puts you in the mood for the holidays.

But Big Band Christmas music also has a number of other benefits. For one, it's a great way to relax and unwind during the holiday season. The smooth sounds and nostalgic lyrics can be very soothing, and can help to calm your nerves and reduce stress.

Big Band Christmas music is also a great way to connect with the past. Many of the classic Big Band Christmas albums were recorded decades ago, and listening to them can be a fun and nostalgic way to connect with the music of the past.

Finally, Big Band Christmas music is a great way to create new holiday traditions. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for some music to play while you decorate the tree, Big Band Christmas music is the perfect choice.

How to Get Started with Big Band Christmas Music

If you're new to Big Band Christmas music, getting started can be as simple as searching for some of the classic albums mentioned in this article. You can find many of these albums on streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music, or you can purchase them on CD or vinyl.

Another great way to get started is to check out some of the modern-day big bands and vocalists who are carrying on the tradition of Big Band Christmas music. Artists like Harry Connick Jr. and Brian Setzer are great examples of musicians who are keeping the spirit of Big Band Christmas music alive.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment and try out some new Big Band Christmas albums. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy the sounds of a bygone era!

Conclusion: Big Band Christmas Music is the Perfect Holiday Soundtrack

In conclusion, Big Band Christmas music is the perfect soundtrack for the holiday season. With its lush orchestral arrangements, swinging rhythms, and smooth vocals, it's a sound that's sure to get you in the mood for the holidays.

Whether you're a fan of the classic Big Band Christmas albums or the modern-day big bands and vocalists who are carrying on the tradition, there's something for everyone in the world of Big Band Christmas music.

So why not give Big Band Christmas music a try this holiday season? With its nostalgic sound and timeless appeal, it's the perfect way to create new holiday traditions and connect with the music of the past.