In What’s on my Christmas mix-tape (oops I mean playlist), I spoke of my love for Christmas music. I listen to it in my car, while I work, basically anywhere I can. The playlist I shared in my previous post was a collection of contemporary favourite songs that I love to sing along to. Today, I’ve got my top 7 list of all-time great Christmas albums.
I’ve been collecting Christmas albums most of my life. At one time, I’d add a new album to my collection pretty much every year. When I go through them, though, there are a few old favourites that I always listen to. It’s a bit like decluttering your closet. You realize there are things you love and wear all the time, and others that you wonder why you even own.
When the time comes to declutter my album collection, these are the all-time great Christmas albums I’ll be keeping.
Once Upon A Christmas – Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton
I’ve never been a big fan of country music, although some of it has grown on me over the years. Even so, I have adored this Christmas album most of my life.
If I could only choose one Christmas CD to keep in my collection, it would be this one. I love that it’s mostly original music, along with a couple of new arrangements of some classics like White Christmas and Winter Wonderland/Sleigh Ride.
My favourite track is I Believe in Santa Claus. It’s a fun song with an inspiring and uplifting message. Something we all need, especially in the 2020s.
Sadly, Kenny Rogers passed away earlier this year. But he will live forever in my house thanks to this amazing Christmas album.
Merry Christmas – Bing Crosby
Listening to this album always reminds me of my Dad, who was a huge Bing Crosby fan. It’s a collection of mostly old classics, brought to life by Bing’s rich baritone voice.
My favourite track is Mele Kalikimaka, the Hawaiian Christmas carol made famous by the movie Christmas Vacation. On this song, Bing is joined by The Andrews Sisters, another of my dad’s favourite acts.
It’s hard to believe it has been over 40 years since Bing left us. I often imagine Bing and David Bowie singing their rendition of Drummer Boy in heaven. This album was made long before that song was recorded so it’s not on the album. I’ll have to be content with listening to it on Spotify.
A Very Special Christmas – Compilation
This is one of the very first Christmas albums I remember buying. I bought it on cassette back in the 80s. Years later, I added it to my CD collection. The album was the first in a series of Very Special Christmas albums made as a fundraiser for Special Olympics.
It’s an awesome compilation of Christmas songs by 80’s icons like Madonna, U2, Eurythmics, Whitney Houston, Bon Jovi and more.
My favourite track is Gabriel’s Message performed by Sting. It’s a haunting rendition of this beautiful hymn.
Christmas – Michael Bublé
Michael Bublé is one of my favourite Canadian artists. The Christmas special he made for CBC a few years ago was so much fun. I wish he’d make another one.
This album is a great mixture of classic religious and secular Christmas music.
My favourite track is Cold December Night, the only original song on the album. I also love Michael’s rendition of Santa Baby.
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Noel – Josh Groban
Josh Groban is another contemporary crooner whose voice I love.
This album is mostly religious songs. Josh’s amazing voice, combined with beautiful arrangements, make them well worth a listen.
My favourite track is Thankful, an original song from this album that reminds us we have much to be thankful for. The arrangement of I’ll Be Home For Christmas with voiceovers from military families always brings tears to my eyes.
The Best of Amy Grant – Amy Grant
Amy Grant is a contemporary Christian artist so this album is mostly Christian music. For some reason, I always end up listening to this album while I wrap Christmas gifts.
My favourite track is a Chris Eaton / Amy Grant composition Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song). It’s a beautiful hymn that tells the Christmas story from Mary’s perspective.
A Holly Dolly Christmas – Dolly Parton
This is a new addition to my collection for 2020. I started this list with Kenny & Dolly, so it’s only fitting that I should end it with Dolly Parton. This is her 47th album. She is a true icon. I don’t think the world will ever see another one like Dolly.
On this album, Dolly teams up with some other big names like Miley Cyrus, Jimmy Fallon, Willie Nelson and Michael Bublé for some iconic duets. The album includes a mix of classic Christmas tunes and many originals written by Dolly herself.
I had a hard time picking a favourite track because this album is packed with great songs. I think my two favourite tracks are Cuddle Up, Cozy Down Christmas and You Are My Christmas. Then again, I also love Christmas Is, Circle of Love and I’m Comin’ Home For Christmas. Heck, the whole album is awesome!
What’s on your list of all-time great Christmas albums? Tell us below.
Excellent list, Michelle! Josh Groban is one of my favs. Cher xoxo
Yes, he really has an amazing voice.
I love how your fav. Is Kenny & Dolly because it is my all time favourite. The next three are also my favs. I have a favourite Christmas CD by Kenny G.Like you, I love Christmas music in my car, absolutely everywhere and anywhere! Playing until Christmas rings into Boxing Day, then husband grimaces them back to the drawer until December 1st, 2021!!
Ha ha. Since I haven’t been in the car much, I have had less Christmas music this year. I try to listen while I work and then someone calls and I forget to put it back on. I do love it though.
❤️❤️🎄👍😊
A great list of albums you’ve listed. My other half listens to the Dolly Parton Christmas every year, mainly when she’s wrapping. For me it is Micheal Buble, my guilty pleasure.