“Under the Mistletoe” by Justin Bieber
This album is a great pop twist on Christmas tunes. I have always been a Justin Bieber supporter and know a majority of his songs word for word, but I’ve failed to listen to his Christmas album. I finally listened to it and haven’t regretted it. Bieber’s take on a Christmas of pop consists of classic holiday songs like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Silent Night” and many more. On this album, the artist also has original Christmas songs written by himself, for example, “Pray” and “Mistletoe” which are some of the most popular. Justin Bieber collaborates with Mariah Carey with “All I want for Christmas” and the famous song peaked to the highest according to Billboard Records. His classic sweet voice with an occasional falsetto or rap is diverse and fun to hear during this happy season.
-Sophia Parker
“A Jolly Christmas From Frank Sinatra” by Frank Sinatra
If you are looking for a classic to celebrate this Christmas and winter season, look no further than “A Jolly Christmas From Frank Sinatra.” Praised as one of the greatest Christmas albums of all time, Sinatra’s album is one that transforms any drab Christmas celebration into a wintery wonderland of smooth, subtle and jazzy perfection. With songs such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Jingle Bells” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” Sinatra lures any listener into a soundtrack that brings happiness and joy through a voice that is both melancholy and comforting. With instruments that complement the homey and smooth voice of Sinatra, this album will complete any wintery day. If you have not graced yourself with this spectacular album make sure to do so for this cold, merry season.
-Emma Yakel
“Christmas” by Michael Bublé
Michael Bublé sings renditions of some of the most iconic Christmas songs from all the ages. With soulful and rounded melodies, “Christmas” creates a track that will surround anyone in warmth and happiness throughout the winter season. Bublé sings with power and presents his voice in a way that will resonate with anyone who listens. It is a lovely, inviting and warm album that will create a soothing, calm and relaxing environment. Bublé’s voice is magically enchanting and will satisfy every Christmas music lover.
-Emma Yakel
“A Legendary Christmas” by John Legend
John Legend outdid himself with this spectacular Christmas album. Legend completed renditions of all Christmas classics imaginable but put a unique, enjoyable twist to all of them with a use of unique instruments and new, creative beats. With a heavy use of back up singers and the strong, soulful voice of Legend himself, every song successfully captures any listener in the uplifting beats and voices. The songs are groovy and soulful with some refreshingly new additions to the melodies. Music of perfection ring true throughout the album and create a satisfying listen. Vocalization and instruments complete the album and energize with quick and fast beats. This album will truly spice up and bring soul to any holiday occasion.
-Emma Yakel
“Baby it’s Cold Outside” by Lydia Liza & Josiah Lemanski
This tune has become my holiday favorite this year. This recreation of a Christmas classic brings a coffeehouse spin along with altered lyrics. The original “Baby it’s Cold Outside” by Homer and Jethro became an annual controversy for insinuating unwanted sexual advances and creepy undertones within their lyrics. However, this new version flips the meaning of this song to be a romantic and jolly holiday evening, along with a sliver of satire. Not only are the lyrics beautifully unique, but their delicate and elegant vocals are spectacular together. This Christmas season, be sure to play this comical yet beautiful tune, for it will have everyone singing along by the end of the night.
-Bella Hall
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Sam Smith
Sam Smith has blown us all away with his incredibly stunning vocals, and I thought it couldn’t get any better. I was mistaken, for his cover of this classic holiday piece has all of our jaws dropped. The song is graceful in itself, but Sam Smith brings a new sound to this tune. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is just his voice with some background piano, which is what makes this song feel so genuine and raw, yet so jolly. His vocal range is tear-jerking, and his voice perfectly suits the melody. When I hear this song, I imagine a warm fireplace, a lit up tree and families laughing; it will bring a smile to everyone’s face. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is a must for this holiday season with its beautiful rawness and elegant vocals.
-Bella Hall
“Come On! Let’s Boogey to the Elf Dance” By Sufjan Stevens
An upbeat tune backed by creative instrumentals, “Come On! Let’s Boogey to the Elf Dance!” is a wonderful Christmas time song. With Sufjan Stevens’ wonderful vocals harmonizing with himself as well as a lovely and original melody, it’s a very fun song to listen to. Packed full of imagery calling to mind the holiday season, it captures the feeling of anticipation that many people feel in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The instrumentals are very unique as well. They add a lot of interest to the song as well as driving up the energy in general. An original and enjoyable song, “Come On! Let’s Boogey to the Elf Dance!” is a wonderful tune to listen to at Christmas time.
-Elie Bufford
