As the winter chill sets in and the holiday season approaches, music lovers eagerly anticipate the release of new Christmas albums. Among the most anticipated are those that capture the spirit of the season with a swing. Christmas swing albums have become a beloved tradition, combining the joy of the holidays with the energy and rhythm of swing music. Let's delve into the world of Christmas swing albums, exploring their history, popular releases, and why they continue to captivate audiences year after year.
Christmas swing music traces its roots back to the 1940s and 1950s, when big bands and swing orchestras would release holiday-themed albums. These recordings often featured classic Christmas carols and original compositions, arranged in the popular swing style of the time. Artists like Bing Crosby, Andy Williams, and Dean Martin popularized this genre, creating timeless Christmas classics that continue to be cherished today.
Iconic Christmas Swing Albums
The history of Christmas swing albums is filled with iconic releases that have stood the test of time. One such album is Bing Crosby's "Merry Christmas," released in 1945. This album features the legendary recording of "White Christmas," which remains the best-selling Christmas single of all time. Crosby's smooth baritone voice and the lush orchestration create a timeless Christmas atmosphere that continues to enchant listeners.
Another iconic Christmas swing album is "A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector," released in 1963. This album is a prime example of the Wall of Sound production style, featuring dense orchestration and layered vocals. It includes classic tracks like "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" and "Winter Wonderland," performed by a roster of talented artists, including The Ronettes and Darlene Love.
Bing Crosby's Influence
Bing Crosby's influence on Christmas swing music cannot be overstated. His smooth vocals and charismatic presence made him a natural fit for the genre. Crosby's Christmas albums, including "Merry Christmas" and "Holiday Inn" (1942), feature a mix of traditional carols and original compositions, all arranged in the swing style of the era. His recordings continue to be popular today, with "White Christmas" consistently ranking as one of the best-selling Christmas singles.
Crosby's impact on Christmas music extended beyond his own recordings. His 1954 television special, "Bing Crosby's Christmas Show," introduced a new generation to Christmas swing music and helped to popularize the genre. The special featured performances by some of the era's biggest stars, including Rosemary Clooney and Danny Kaye, and has since become a holiday classic.
The Evolution of Christmas Swing Music
While many Christmas swing albums remain faithful to the classic big band sound, others have evolved to incorporate elements of modern jazz and other genres. For example, Harry Connick Jr.'s "When My Heart Finds Christmas" (1993) blends traditional swing with contemporary jazz and pop influences. The album features Connick's signature New Orleans sound, as well as a mix of original compositions and classic carols.
Other artists have taken a more experimental approach to Christmas swing music. The Brian Setzer Orchestra's "Christmas Rocks!" (2005) combines swing, rockabilly, and surf music to create a high-energy holiday experience. The album features original compositions and covers of classic carols, all arranged in Setzer's signature style. Similarly, She & Him's "A Very She & Him Christmas" (2011) blends indie pop with swing and jazz influences, resulting in a unique and captivating take on the genre.
Christmas Swing Albums for Modern Audiences
Today's Christmas swing albums cater to a wide range of tastes, from traditionalists to those seeking something fresh and innovative. For those who prefer a more classic sound, Michael Bublé's "Christmas" (2011) is a popular choice. The album features a mix of classic carols and original compositions, all arranged in the smooth, sophisticated style that has made Bublé a modern crooner sensation.
For those looking for something a bit different, consider Norah Jones' "...Featuring" (2010). While not exclusively a Christmas album, it includes several holiday-themed tracks, including a sultry take on "Christmas Don't Be Late" and a jazz-inflected version of "Little Drummer Boy." Jones' unique voice and eclectic musical style make this album a standout choice for those seeking a more unconventional Christmas listening experience.
Michael Bublé's Modern Crooner Style
Michael Bublé's "Christmas" album is a prime example of how Christmas swing music can be updated for modern audiences without sacrificing its classic charm. Bublé's smooth vocals and sophisticated arrangements recall the golden age of swing music, while his choice of material and production style give the album a contemporary feel. The album features a mix of classic carols and original compositions, including the hit single "Cold December Night."
Bublé's "Christmas" album has been a massive commercial success, selling over 7 million copies worldwide and earning multiple platinum certifications. Its popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of Christmas swing music and the ability of contemporary artists to breathe new life into the genre.
Norah Jones' Eclectic Take on Christmas Swing
Norah Jones' "...Featuring" album is a unique addition to the Christmas swing canon, showcasing her eclectic musical tastes and distinctive vocal style. The album features a mix of holiday-themed tracks and non-holiday material, all arranged in Jones' signature jazz-inflected style. Her version of "Christmas Don't Be Late" is a sultry, slow-burner that showcases her smoky vocals and piano playing, while her take on "Little Drummer Boy" is a jazz-inflected instrumental that highlights her improvisational skills.
Jones' "...Featuring" album is a prime example of how Christmas swing music can be reinvented for modern audiences. By drawing on a wide range of musical influences and eschewing traditional holiday tropes, Jones creates a unique and captivating Christmas listening experience.
As the holiday season approaches, music lovers can look forward to a wealth of new Christmas swing albums, as well as the timeless classics that have stood the test of time. Whether you prefer the smooth vocals of Bing Crosby or the eclectic stylings of Norah Jones, there's a Christmas swing album out there for everyone. So crank up the volume, pour yourself a cup of hot cocoa, and let the joyous sounds of Christmas swing music fill your home this holiday season.