Elvis Christmas Album Review And Tracklist

The King of Rock 'n' Roll's festive album is a holiday classic. Released in 1957, Elvis' Christmas Album is a timeless collection of Christmas songs that showcase Elvis Presley's unique vocal style and versatility. The album has been a staple of holiday playlists for decades and continues to be a favorite among fans of all ages.

Elvis' Christmas Album was a major commercial success upon its release, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart and becoming one of the best-selling Christmas albums of all time. The album's success can be attributed to Elvis' ability to put his own spin on classic Christmas songs, making them sound fresh and exciting. From the opening notes of "Santa Claus Is Back in Town," it's clear that this is not your average Christmas album.

Tracklist

The original 1957 release of Elvis' Christmas Album featured the following tracks:

1. "Santa Claus Is Back in Town"
2. "White Christmas"
3. "Here Comes Santa Claus"
4. "I'll Be Home for Christmas"
5. "Blue Christmas"
6. "Santa Bring My Baby Back to Me"
7. "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem"
8. "Silent Night"
9. "Peace in the Valley"
10. "I Believe"
11. "Take My Hand, Precious Lord"
12. "It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)"

In 1970, the album was re-released with additional tracks, including "If I Get Home on Christmas Day," "Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees," and "Mama Liked the Roses." These bonus tracks were recorded in 1971 and feature a more contemporary sound.

Standout Tracks

While every track on Elvis' Christmas Album is a holiday classic, some stand out as particularly memorable. "Blue Christmas" is a hauntingly beautiful rendition of the 1940s standard, with Elvis' emotive vocals bringing new depth to the song. "Santa Claus Is Back in Town" is a fun, upbeat track that showcases Elvis' rockabilly roots. "Silent Night" is a stunning a cappella performance that highlights Elvis' vocal range and control.

Recording and Production

Elvis' Christmas Album was recorded in September 1957 at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. The sessions were produced by Steve Sholes, who worked with Elvis on many of his early recordings. The album features a mix of established musicians, including guitarist Scotty Moore and drummer D.J. Fontana, as well as newcomers like pianist Dudley Brooks.

The recording process was relatively quick, with most tracks completed in just a few takes. Elvis was known for his perfectionism, but he was also a seasoned professional who could deliver high-quality performances with ease.

Legacy and Impact

Elvis' Christmas Album has had a lasting impact on popular music. The album's success helped establish Christmas music as a major genre, paving the way for future holiday releases from artists like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Mariah Carey.

The album has also been certified 13x Platinum by the RIAA, making it one of the best-selling Christmas albums of all time. In 2012, the album was added to the Grammy Hall of Fame, a testament to its enduring influence on popular music.

Criticisms and Controversies

Despite its massive success, Elvis' Christmas Album has not been without its criticisms. Some have argued that the album's production is too slick, with overly prominent use of orchestral arrangements and backing vocals.

Others have criticized the album's lack of original material, with most tracks being covers of established Christmas standards. However, this criticism overlooks the fact that Elvis' unique vocal style and interpretive skills bring a fresh perspective to even the most familiar songs.

Conclusion

Elvis' Christmas Album is a holiday classic that continues to delight audiences of all ages. With its unique blend of rockabilly, gospel, and traditional Christmas music, the album is a testament to Elvis' innovative spirit and enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime Elvis fan or just looking for some festive tunes to get you in the holiday mood, Elvis' Christmas Album is an essential listen.

We invite you to share your favorite Elvis Christmas songs and memories with us in the comments below. Have you listened to Elvis' Christmas Album? What's your favorite track? Let's get the conversation started!

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