10 Essential Christmas Records On Vinyl

Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by listening to some classic Christmas tunes on vinyl? There's something special about hearing Bing Crosby's smooth voice crooning "White Christmas" or Ella Fitzgerald's jazzy rendition of "Sleigh Ride" on a warm, crackling record. If you're looking to build your Christmas vinyl collection, here are 10 essential records to get you started.

1. Bing Crosby - White Christmas (1942)

Bing Crosby's iconic voice is synonymous with Christmas, and his album "White Christmas" is a must-have for any holiday collection. Featuring classic songs like "White Christmas," "Jingle Bells," and "Silent Night," this record is a timeless treasure that will get you in the mood for hot cocoa and festive cheer.

Why It's Essential:

• Bing Crosby's warm, baritone voice is the epitome of Christmas nostalgia
• Features some of the most iconic Christmas songs of all time
• A great introduction to classic Christmas music for new vinyl collectors

2. Ella Fitzgerald - Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas (1960)

Ella Fitzgerald's "Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas" is a jazzy, upbeat take on traditional Christmas classics. With her signature scat singing and impeccable phrasing, Ella brings a fresh spin to songs like "Sleigh Ride" and "Winter Wonderland."

Why It's Essential:

• Ella's unique vocal style adds a fun, swinging twist to classic Christmas songs
• Features impressive instrumental arrangements and solos
• A great choice for jazz fans looking for a festive record

3. Nat King Cole - The Christmas Song (1946)

Nat King Cole's smooth, velvety voice is the perfect accompaniment to a cozy Christmas evening. His album "The Christmas Song" features beautiful renditions of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)" and "O Holy Night."

Why It's Essential:

• Nat King Cole's voice is quintessential Christmas magic
• Features some of the most beautiful, soothing Christmas songs ever recorded
• A great choice for those looking for a relaxing holiday record

4. Vince Guaraldi Trio - A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

The Vince Guaraldi Trio's "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is a beloved holiday classic that's been delighting audiences for generations. With its beautiful piano arrangements and nostalgic charm, this record is a must-have for any Peanuts fan.

Why It's Essential:

• Features iconic, jazzy arrangements of Christmas classics
• A timeless, nostalgic record that's perfect for families
• A great introduction to jazz for younger listeners

5. Frank Sinatra - A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra (1957)

Frank Sinatra's "A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra" is a fun, upbeat take on traditional Christmas songs. With Ol' Blue Eyes' signature swagger and charm, this record is a great choice for those looking for a festive, retro vibe.

Why It's Essential:

• Features Frank Sinatra's iconic, smooth vocals
• A fun, retro take on classic Christmas songs
• A great choice for fans of traditional pop music

6. The Beach Boys - The Beach Boys' Christmas Album (1964)

The Beach Boys' "The Beach Boys' Christmas Album" is a fun, catchy take on traditional Christmas songs. With their signature harmonies and surf rock sound, this record is a great choice for those looking for a festive, upbeat vibe.

Why It's Essential:

• Features The Beach Boys' iconic harmonies and surf rock sound
• A fun, catchy take on classic Christmas songs
• A great choice for fans of 60s pop music

7. Phil Spector - A Christmas Gift for You (1963)

Phil Spector's "A Christmas Gift for You" is a classic holiday record that features some of the most iconic Christmas songs of all time. With its lush, wall-of-sound arrangements and nostalgic charm, this record is a must-have for any holiday collection.

Why It's Essential:

• Features iconic, lush arrangements of Christmas classics
• A timeless, nostalgic record that's perfect for families
• A great introduction to 60s pop music for younger listeners

8. Dean Martin - A Winter Romance (1959)

Dean Martin's "A Winter Romance" is a smooth, sophisticated take on traditional Christmas songs. With his signature velvety voice and lush arrangements, this record is a great choice for those looking for a relaxing holiday record.

Why It's Essential:

• Features Dean Martin's iconic, smooth vocals
• A smooth, sophisticated take on classic Christmas songs
• A great choice for fans of traditional pop music

9. Andy Williams - The Andy Williams Christmas Album (1963)

Andy Williams' "The Andy Williams Christmas Album" is a classic holiday record that features some of the most iconic Christmas songs of all time. With its lush, orchestral arrangements and nostalgic charm, this record is a must-have for any holiday collection.

Why It's Essential:

• Features iconic, lush arrangements of Christmas classics
• A timeless, nostalgic record that's perfect for families
• A great introduction to traditional pop music for younger listeners

10. Mariah Carey - Merry Christmas (1994)

Mariah Carey's "Merry Christmas" is a modern holiday classic that features some of the most iconic Christmas songs of the 90s. With its upbeat, festive arrangements and Mariah's signature whistle register, this record is a great choice for those looking for a fun, contemporary holiday record.

Why It's Essential:

• Features Mariah Carey's iconic, whistle register vocals
• A fun, upbeat take on classic Christmas songs
• A great choice for fans of 90s pop music

If you're looking to get into the holiday spirit with some classic Christmas tunes on vinyl, these 10 essential records are a great place to start. From Bing Crosby to Mariah Carey, these albums are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle in by the fire, and spin some of these festive records to get you in the mood for Christmas!