Ella Fitzgerald Christmas Vinyl: A Jazz Holiday Classic

The sound of jazz fills the air, and the holiday season is upon us. What better way to get into the spirit than with the iconic Ella Fitzgerald Christmas vinyl? This timeless classic has been a staple of holiday playlists for decades, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of Ella's incredible voice and the magic of jazz.

There's something special about listening to Ella's smooth, sultry tones on vinyl, as if the crackle and warmth of the record add to the cozy atmosphere of the season. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or just a fan of holiday music, Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album is sure to become a treasured part of your holiday tradition.

The Making of a Holiday Classic

Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album was originally released in 1960, and it was one of the first holiday albums to feature a jazz vocalist. The album was produced by Norman Granz, who was also Ella's manager and the founder of Verve Records. Granz had a vision of creating a holiday album that would showcase Ella's incredible vocal range and interpretive skills, and he assembled a top-notch team of musicians to help bring the project to life.

The album features a mix of traditional holiday songs, including "Jingle Bells," "Sleigh Ride," and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," as well as some more obscure tunes, such as "Frosty the Snowman" and "Winter Wonderland." Ella's vocal performances are, as always, superb, and she brings a sense of joy and wonder to each song.

The Musician's Musicians

One of the key factors that sets Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album apart from other holiday records is the exceptional musicianship of the supporting cast. The album features a who's who of jazz greats, including pianist Lou Levy, guitarist Herb Ellis, bassist Joe Mondragon, and drummer Larry Bunker.

These musicians were all top-notch players who were well-versed in the jazz idiom, and they bring a level of sophistication and elegance to the album that elevates it beyond the typical holiday fare. Whether they're playing lush, orchestral arrangements or more stripped-down, intimate settings, the musicians on this album are always sensitive to Ella's vocals and provide the perfect support.

Ella's Vocal Magic

Ella Fitzgerald's vocal performances on this album are, as always, a marvel. She has a way of making each song her own, and her interpretations of these holiday classics are both imaginative and respectful of the original material.

One of the things that sets Ella apart from other vocalists is her incredible technical ability. She has a range that spans over two octaves, and she can move effortlessly from a soft, sultry whisper to a loud, exuberant shout. She's also a master of phrasing and dynamics, and she knows just when to push the emotional intensity of a song to make it really pop.

A Holiday Album for the Ages

Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album is a holiday classic that has stood the test of time. It's an album that can be enjoyed by jazz fans and non-jazz fans alike, and it's a great introduction to Ella's music for anyone who's new to her work.

The album has been re-released on several occasions over the years, and it's available on a variety of formats, including vinyl, CD, and digital download. Whether you're a fan of traditional holiday music or you're looking for something a little more adventurous, Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album is sure to become a treasured part of your holiday tradition.

Track Listing

The original 1960 release of Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album included the following tracks:

• "Jingle Bells"
• "Sleigh Ride"
• "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer"
• "Frosty the Snowman"
• "Winter Wonderland"
• "The Christmas Song"
• "White Christmas"
• "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
• "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?"

Later re-releases of the album have included additional tracks, such as "The Secret of Christmas" and "Misty Blue."

Legacy and Impact

Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album has had a lasting impact on the world of holiday music. It's an album that has influenced countless other artists, from jazz vocalists to pop singers, and it continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.

The album has also been recognized for its technical excellence, and it's been certified gold by the RIAA. It's a testament to Ella's enduring popularity and the timelessness of her music.

Collector's Edition

In recent years, there have been several collector's editions of Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album released on vinyl. These editions often feature deluxe packaging, including gatefold sleeves and extensive liner notes.

Some collector's editions also include bonus tracks or alternate takes, making them a must-have for serious Ella fans. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your vinyl collection, these editions are a great way to experience Ella's music in a whole new way.

A Holiday Tradition

Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album is a holiday tradition that's been enjoyed by generations of music lovers. It's an album that's sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season, and it's a great way to introduce your loved ones to the magic of Ella's music.

So why not make Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album a part of your holiday tradition this year? Whether you're a fan of jazz, holiday music, or just great singing, this album is sure to become a treasured part of your holiday playlist.

We invite you to share your thoughts on Ella Fitzgerald's Christmas album in the comments below. What's your favorite track from the album? Do you have a special holiday tradition that involves Ella's music? Let us know!