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Christmas cheer is in the air.
The fraternity and sorority houses have already begun putting up their grandiose lighting schemes. Oklahoma City-based radio station Magic 104.1 has been playing holiday tunes for several weeks now.
Being the overly festive person that I am, I made a Christmas playlist in September. Yeah, I know that is a bit extreme, but what other upcoming holiday music did I have to look forward to? It’s an extensive list of songs including four versions of “Carol of the Bells”, three versions of “Joy To The World” and nine versions of “Oh Holy Night.”
I really like “Oh Holy Night.”
So in case you’re not a Christmas music aficionado like I am — I’m assuming you’re not — here’s a sample of the top five holiday tunes to listen to this season.
10. Baby It’s Cold Outside - Leon Redbone and Zooey Deschanel
It was recorded for the “Elf” soundtrack, but that doesn’t take away from its validity.
Ranking up there with the likes of the Doris Day and Bing Crosby duo, Redbone and Deschanel have a connection that could put up a fight against the best of them. If only she could act as good as she could sing, or look.
9. “Christmas Eve/Sarjevo 12/24” - Trans Siberian Orchestra
This piece is a timeless classic that digs deep into the soul of every holiday music lover.
More notably but incorrectly known as the Carol of the Bells “Metallica version,” the piece tells a story of a lone cello player from Sarajevo who would play Christmas carols in the town square amidst the bombs and gunshots during the height of the Bosnian War. The cellist in the piece solemnly plays the familiar tunes of “Carol of the Bells” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” against the harsh rips of the rock band, representing a glimmer of hope.
8. “Jingle Bells” – Diana Krall
In her first attempt at recording Christmas music, I would say she succeeded. Krall takes this nostalgic classic and transforms it into a sexy song you might hear at a jazz or cigar lounge around the holidays. It is easy on the ears, and no bells are used. If you like jazz, this song is definitely for you.
7. “Glory to God in the Highest” – Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
I’m a sucker for southern gospel quartets. I know it’s not the most popular genre, but there’s something about the simple twangy harmonies and the combination and blending of four good southern voices that get me every time. EH & SS is one of the hottest gospel groups in the business, and their version of this song is unbeatable. Ernie sang the same song when he was with the Cathedrals (disputably the greatest southern gospel quartet of all time), but with his new cast of young, fresh voices behind him, there is no contest.
Ladies, if you like deep voices there is a great bass solo in the second verse. Eat your hearts out.
6. “Last Christmas” – Wham!
George Michael took this song to stardom when Wham! recorded it in 1984 as part of a duel single release with “Everything She Wants”. The song, that was written and produced by “The Greek” himself (bet you didn’t know he was Greek did ya’? His real name is Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou), is on the list for all the single men out there who know the feeling of losing that special someone and being alone for the holidays.
5. “Let it Snow” – Boys II Men
Turn up the bass and let the mellow sounds of these guys take over the mood. Not quite the version most people are used to, this is a great song to listen to as you snuggle by the fireplace sipping hot cocoa with your boo, or not. Nonetheless, it’s a good one.
4. “Oh Holy Night” – David Phelps
Considered one of the greatest tenors of all time, David Phelps’ rendition of this classic is just what the doctor ordered to get in the festive spirit. Phelps used to be a member of the Gaither Vocal Band (a great southern gospel quartet) and will warm even then coldest of hearts with his pure tone and incredibly high notes. Of the nine versions I have of this song, David Phelps takes the cake.
3. “Grown-up Christmas List” – Michael Buble
It’s a great song, so it came down to who sang it the best.
Amy Grant is too ’90s.
Kelly Clarkson is too diva. She doesn’t deserve to ruin a classic Christmas song.
And Clay Aiken is too feminine.
The choice is clear; Michael Buble has just the right voice and passion for this song.
2. “White Christmas” - Bing Crosby
This song has been a staple of every holiday season since 1942, when ole’ Bing himself first performed it in the musical “Holiday Inn.” Crosby’s distinct voice is recognized as one of the greatest in American music history, and “White Christmas” is a direct testament to that.
1. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby
One of my favorite memories is sitting on the carpet early Christmas morning at my grandparent’s house. My back is toward the crackling fireplace, and I am surrounded by presents and family members. This song is softly playing on the speakers, setting the mood for a perfect Christmas morning.
Frank and Bing are two of the greatest American musicians of all time, and here they come together to produce arguably the finest Christmas song ever recorded. They portray the simple message of enjoying the holidays with the ones you care about.
It is the ultimate Christmas song, which is why it tops this list of the best Christmas songs this holiday season.
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