Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with some classic Christmas tunes? Oldies but goodies, these festive favorites are sure to put a smile on your face and a twinkle in your eye. From crooners to divas, and from rockabilly to doo-wop, we've got the top 10 Christmas oldies to get you in the mood for a holly jolly Christmas.
Christmas music has a way of evoking memories of yesteryear, transporting us back to a time when life was simpler, and the world seemed a bit more magical. Whether you're decorating the tree, baking cookies, or just plain ol' singing along, these Christmas oldies are the perfect accompaniment to your holiday festivities. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle in by the fire, and let's take a trip down memory lane with the top 10 Christmas oldies to get you in the mood.
The Evolution of Christmas Music
From traditional carols to modern pop hits, Christmas music has undergone a significant transformation over the years. The early days of Christmas music were marked by sacred hymns and classical compositions, with the likes of Handel's "Messiah" and Bach's "Christmas Oratorio" being staples of the season. As the 20th century dawned, popular music began to play a more prominent role in Christmas celebrations, with crooners like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra leading the charge.
The 1950s and '60s saw the rise of rock 'n' roll and its influence on Christmas music, with artists like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and The Beach Boys contributing to the holiday canon. The 1970s and '80s brought about a more contemporary sound, with disco, funk, and new wave flavors being added to the mix. Today, Christmas music encompasses a wide range of styles and genres, from hip-hop to electronic, and everything in between.
Classic Christmas Crooners
Some of the most iconic Christmas recordings come from the golden age of crooners. These smooth-voiced gentlemen brought a sense of sophistication and elegance to the holiday season, with their interpretations of Christmas classics becoming synonymous with the era.
- Bing Crosby - "White Christmas" (1942)
- Frank Sinatra - "Jingle Bells" (1948)
- Dean Martin - "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (1959)
These timeless recordings have been passed down through generations, with their warm, velvety tones and effortless charm continuing to captivate audiences to this day.
The Top 10 Christmas Oldies to Get You in the Mood
And now, without further ado, here are the top 10 Christmas oldies to get you in the mood for a holly jolly Christmas:
- "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" by Brenda Lee (1958) - This upbeat rockabilly tune is a Christmas classic that never gets old.
- "Jingle Bell Rock" by Bobby Helms (1957) - This catchy, country-tinged Christmas song is sure to get you moving and grooving.
- "Winter Wonderland" by Dean Martin (1966) - Dino's smooth vocals bring a touch of elegance to this festive favorite.
- "Frosty the Snowman" by Gene Autry (1950) - This fun, retro tune is perfect for kids of all ages.
- "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" by The Jackson 5 (1970) - The brothers Jackson bring their signature sound to this Christmas classic.
- "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)" by Nat King Cole (1946) - This timeless ballad is a staple of the holiday season.
- "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas" by Gayla Peevey (1953) - This fun, quirky tune is a holiday novelty that never gets old.
- "Blue Christmas" by Elvis Presley (1957) - The King's soulful vocals bring a touch of melancholy to this Christmas classic.
- "Do They Know It's Christmas?" by Band Aid (1984) - This charity single brought together some of the biggest names in music for a very special cause.
- "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Judy Garland (1944) - This beautiful, melancholic ballad is a Christmas classic that never fails to move.
Getting into the Holiday Spirit
These Christmas oldies are sure to get you in the mood for a holly jolly holiday season. Whether you're decorating the tree, baking cookies, or just plain ol' singing along, these festive favorites are the perfect accompaniment to your holiday festivities.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle in by the fire, and let the sounds of Christmas past transport you to a world of holiday cheer. With these top 10 Christmas oldies to get you in the mood, you'll be singing "Jingle Bells" in no time!
What are some other classic Christmas songs?
+Some other classic Christmas songs include "Silent Night," "Deck the Halls," and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."
Who is the best Christmas singer of all time?
+While opinions may vary, Bing Crosby is often considered one of the greatest Christmas singers of all time, with his iconic rendition of "White Christmas" being a holiday staple.
What is the most popular Christmas song of all time?
+According to various sources, including the Guinness Book of World Records, "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby is the best-selling single of all time, with estimated sales of over 50 million copies worldwide.