Christmas music. It's a hit or miss. Some people absolutely love it while others feel their sanity slipping if they hear too much of it. I'm one of those people who actually enjoys the festive tunes so much that I admit to listening to a song or two when its the dead of summer in July. However, I'm sort of picky about what exactly I listen to. I usually prefer the older stuff to the more recent songs. I like the occasional Michael Buble, but I feel that usually when a modern music artist covers a classic, it sounds too overdone. It's just not the same. Here's a list of some of MY favorite holiday classics that make feel all warm and fuzzy inside:
1. All I Want for Christmas is You- Mariah Carey
I know. I know. This song always seems to be a staple for a basic girl's Christmas playlist, but it is still a classic nonetheless. Between Mariah's epic high notes and the suspenseful opening, my Christmas is not complete unless I hear this song at least once. (or a few times)
2. All I Want for Christmas is You- Vince Vance and the Valiants
This was a song released in the early 90's prior to when Mariah Carey debuted her hit song. This one was done by a little-known Country band, Vince Vance and the Valiants, where the only comparison that can be made between this and Carey's song is the title. This has a more pop-rock vibe with a hint of doo-wop. Plus, Lisa Layne's vocals are undeniably good.
3. Happy Xmas (War is Over)- John Lennon & Yoko Ono
An oldie but a goodie. This song takes me back to my earliest memories of Christmas, and I'd say its probably my favorite. Released in 1971, this holiday tune has a nostalgic feel despite Lennon's upbeat lyrics and the merriness of the Harlem Community Choir in the background. Everything about this song strays from the usual pop norm yet this tune is a Christmas standard, and it's definitely a good soundtrack to the emotional family group hugs on Christmas day when everyone has had a little too much wine.
4. Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree- Brenda Lee
In the early days of rock'n'roll in the 1950's, Brenda Lee took it upon herself to incorporate the popular new genre into a song that would become a staple for any Christmas playlist. There's no denying those sweet airy guitar licks and the amazing saxophone solo that follows. Play this and let the Christmas spirit ring!
5. Jingle Bell Rock- Bobby Helms/Brenda Lee
This holiday song was originally done by Bobby Helms and covered by Brenda Lee shortly after. Both versions are equally amazing and contain the soft essence of the early days of pop-rock. *cue Mean Girls dance*
6. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)- Darlene Love
A Mo-town classic apart of Phil Spector's "Wall of Sound" and a tradition on the David Letterman Show, this song brings all the emotions of being near that special one during this magical season. Darlene's passionate vocals combined with the strong instrumentation of the piano, drums, guitar and sax along with the chilling background vocalists make this a tune I find myself playing on repeat.
7. Celebrate Me Home- Kenny Loggins
Warm up the fireplace, turn down the lights and cuddle up to loved ones with this soft Christmas classic where Loggins sings of the joy of being home for the holidays. The piano will ease you into a state of relaxation as the snow falls outside your window as you sit there with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
8. Little Saint Nick- The Beach Boys
This fun pop song from The Beach Boys will lighten any mood and have you boppin' your head until your neck hurts.
9. Last Christmas- WHAM!
I admit this one is a little cheesy (c'mon this is George Michael were talking about), but still a great tune to put on blast especially if you had the misfortune of having your heart broken recently. Despite its upbeat nature, it'll put into words the feelings of a broken heart while managing to cheer you up in the process for 3 or so minutes.
10. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas- Frank Sinatra
Now, what kind of person would I be if I didn't include good ole' Frank Sinatra on the list? I think this one speaks for itself, but almost anybody I know from any generation can recognize this holiday classic no sweat. Make a cup of hot chocolate (or wine) and sit by a roaring fire with this one. It couldn't feel any more like Christmas.
Happy Holidays everyone!
