The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with some classic Christmas tunes on vinyl? There's something special about listening to music on vinyl, and Christmas records are no exception. The warm, rich sound of vinyl brings a cozy ambiance to any holiday gathering. In this article, we'll explore seven essential Christmas vinyl records that every music lover should own.
1. Bing Crosby - White Christmas (1942)
Bing Crosby's White Christmas is a timeless classic that has been a staple of holiday playlists for generations. This iconic album features Crosby's smooth, baritone voice on 10 festive tracks, including the title song "White Christmas," which has sold over 50 million copies worldwide. The album's warm, nostalgic sound is perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
Why it's essential:
- Timeless classic that never goes out of style
- Features Bing Crosby's iconic vocals
- Perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere
2. Ella Fitzgerald - Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas (1960)
Ella Fitzgerald's Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas is a fun and upbeat holiday album that's sure to get you in the mood for celebration. Featuring Fitzgerald's virtuosic vocals and a swinging big band, this album is a holiday classic that's perfect for dancing and singing along.
Why it's essential:
- Fun and upbeat holiday album
- Features Ella Fitzgerald's virtuosic vocals
- Perfect for dancing and singing along
3. Frank Sinatra - A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra (1957)
Frank Sinatra's A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra is a classic holiday album that showcases Ol' Blue Eyes' smooth, velvety vocals. Featuring 10 festive tracks, including "Jingle Bells" and "Silent Night," this album is a must-have for any Sinatra fan.
Why it's essential:
- Classic holiday album from a legendary artist
- Features Frank Sinatra's smooth, velvety vocals
- Perfect for creating a sophisticated holiday atmosphere
4. Nat King Cole - The Christmas Song (1946)
Nat King Cole's The Christmas Song is a beautiful and intimate holiday album that features Cole's smooth, baritone vocals. This album is a must-have for any fan of classic holiday music, and its warm, nostalgic sound is perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
Why it's essential:
- Beautiful and intimate holiday album
- Features Nat King Cole's smooth, baritone vocals
- Perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere
5. Vince Guaraldi Trio - A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
The Vince Guaraldi Trio's A Charlie Brown Christmas is a beloved holiday album that features the iconic music from the classic animated special. This album is a must-have for any fan of jazz and holiday music, and its nostalgic sound is perfect for creating a fun and festive holiday atmosphere.
Why it's essential:
- Beloved holiday album from a classic animated special
- Features the iconic music of the Vince Guaraldi Trio
- Perfect for creating a fun and festive holiday atmosphere
6. Andy Williams - The Andy Williams Christmas Album (1963)
Andy Williams' The Andy Williams Christmas Album is a classic holiday album that features Williams' smooth, easy-listening vocals. This album is a must-have for any fan of classic holiday music, and its warm, nostalgic sound is perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
Why it's essential:
- Classic holiday album from a legendary artist
- Features Andy Williams' smooth, easy-listening vocals
- Perfect for creating a cozy holiday atmosphere
7. Phil Spector - A Christmas Gift for You (1963)
Phil Spector's A Christmas Gift for You is a classic holiday album that features Spector's iconic "Wall of Sound" production. This album is a must-have for any fan of classic holiday music, and its nostalgic sound is perfect for creating a fun and festive holiday atmosphere.
Why it's essential:
- Classic holiday album from a legendary producer
- Features Phil Spector's iconic "Wall of Sound" production
- Perfect for creating a fun and festive holiday atmosphere
These seven essential Christmas vinyl records are a must-have for any music lover's holiday collection. Whether you're a fan of classic crooners, jazz, or rock 'n' roll, there's something on this list for everyone. So why not spin some holiday tunes on your turntable and get into the festive spirit?
We'd love to hear from you! What's your favorite Christmas album? Do you have a special holiday tradition that involves music? Let us know in the comments below!
What is the best way to play Christmas vinyl records?
+The best way to play Christmas vinyl records is on a high-quality turntable with a good pair of speakers. You can also consider using a record player with a built-in speaker or a portable record player for a more convenient listening experience.
How do I care for my Christmas vinyl records?
+To care for your Christmas vinyl records, make sure to handle them by the edges, avoid touching the surface, and store them in a cool, dry place. You should also clean your records regularly using a soft cloth and a record cleaning solution.
Can I play Christmas vinyl records on a CD player?
+No, you cannot play Christmas vinyl records on a CD player. Vinyl records are designed to be played on a turntable, and CD players are designed to play CDs. If you want to listen to your Christmas vinyl records digitally, you can consider ripping them to a digital format using a record player with a built-in USB port or a digital audio converter.