The 12 Best Christmas Albums to Download This Year
You know we LOVE music, and that every Monday we offer you a soundbite in the form of Your Monday Muse to jump start your day and inspire your faith.
Well, in a short time, we will be inundated by all things Christmas, and along with the favorite ornaments, sparkling decorations, and twinkling lights, festive Christmas music is on the must have list. While the radio sticks to the tried and true covers and retail stores repeat the classics, there are many really good Christmas albums to choose from when getting into the holiday spirit. While it was tough, we’ve narrowed it down to an eclectic Top 12 list of must-haves to download and play on repeat all through December at home, in the car, and at the office. You might even get some ideas for caroling! Enjoy!
1. Amy Grant, The Christmas Collection
With five Christmas albums, she is the queen of Christmas and her mix of original songs and carols are sweet, beautiful, and signal the start to the most joyful season of all.
2. Mercy Me, The Christmas Sessions
A band that leads by example, this album takes you on a Christmas journey with unique arrangements of each song, and listening to their version of Christmastime is Here will give you all the feels.
3. Kelly Clarkson, Wrapped in Red
She’s everywhere right now, and her ability to introduce us to new and original songs, like the title song Wrapped in Red, blend seamlessly with her take on sweet classics, like My Favorite Things. It’s a must-have album for your collection.
4. Michael Buble, Christmas
Who doesn’t love Michael Bublé? He’s become an icon of jazz and big band stylings and this beautiful, simply titled album does not disappoint…ever.
5. Francesca Battistelli, Christmas
Francesca Batiistelli, well-known to many through Christian radio, mixes the sacredness of the season with a playfulness that is pleasant, playful, and family-friendly.
6. Vince Guaraldi Trio, A Charlie Brown Christmas
Based on the 1965 TV special, it’s a classic and a favorite for all the right reasons. Enough said.
7. Michael W. Smith, The Spirit of Christmas
Michael W. Smith does so many things well, including Christmas albums, but this one filled with a variety of duets is a particular favorite to play the entire season. Of particular note is All Is Well with Carrie Underwood.
8. John Denver & The Muppets, A Christmas Together
How can anyone say no to The Muppets singing with the legendary John Denver? You can’t, and introducing them to every child in your home is an absolute joy. Plus, you can’t help but sing along!
9. Idina Menzel, Holiday Wishes
Her voice is instantly recognizable, and though she just released a new holiday album, Christmas: A Season of Love, this was her first and is full of beautiful songs that fill your home with the cozy sounds of Christmas you never want to let go.
10. John Legend, A Legendary Christmas
John Legend brings a softness to Christmas and if you add this album to your mix, you’ll find yourself swaying and dancing to the rhythms of the EGOT-winner’s smooth vocals long after the kiddos are in bed and the gifts are wrapped.
11. Bette Midler, Cool Yule
You might find this an interesting choice, but infused with fun and jazz, Broadway Bette brings a delightfully sassy vibe to any holiday party.
12. Lea Michele, Christmas in the City
Brand new this year, Lea Michele transports us to Christmas in New York and back in time to childhoods full of wonder and joy.
*Bonus: Pentatonix, The Best of Pentatonix Christmas
Originally from our hometown, we couldn’t resist throwing this acapella-wonder group into the mix. Their unique renditions of Hallelujah, Mary, Did You Know? and O Come, All Ye Faithful will have you wanting each of their Christmas albums for your own.
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