The holiday season is synonymous with many things – twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and of course, timeless Christmas music. For decades, artists from various genres have embraced the spirit of the season by releasing festive albums that capture the magic of Christmas. These albums have become staples in households around the world, played year after year to set the perfect holiday mood. Here, we take a look at the top 10 best-selling Christmas albums that have stood the test of time and continue to bring joy to listeners of all ages.
1. “Merry Christmas” – Mariah Carey (1994): Mariah Carey’s holiday album is an undeniable classic, featuring her iconic rendition of “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” This album has become synonymous with modern Christmas celebrations and has consistently topped the charts every holiday season.
2. “Elvis’ Christmas Album” – Elvis Presley (1957): The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll ventured into the realm of holiday music with this album, which features Elvis’s distinctive takes on traditional Christmas songs. His warm voice adds a touch of nostalgia to holiday gatherings.
3. “Christmas” – Michael Bublé (2011): Michael Bublé’s smooth and jazzy style lends itself perfectly to Christmas classics. This album is a contemporary favorite, featuring his unique interpretations of beloved holiday tunes.
4. “A Christmas Album” – Barbra Streisand (1967): Barbra Streisand’s timeless vocals shine on this album, which includes a mix of traditional carols and modern holiday songs. Her emotive performances make this album a must-listen during the holiday season.
5. “These Are Special Times” – Celine Dion (1998): Celine Dion’s Christmas album is a blend of traditional and original songs, all delivered with her powerful and emotive voice. The album’s title perfectly captures the sentiment of the holiday season.
6. “The Christmas Song” – Nat King Cole (1960): Nat King Cole’s velvety voice is the epitome of holiday elegance. This album includes his iconic rendition of “The Christmas Song,” also known as “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.”
7. “Christmas Eve and Other Stories” – Trans-Siberian Orchestra (1996): Combining rock, classical music, and holiday themes, Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s album offers a unique and captivating take on Christmas music. Its orchestral arrangements and narrative storytelling make it a standout.
8. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” – Vince Guaraldi Trio (1965): The beloved soundtrack to the iconic TV special, this album by the Vince Guaraldi Trio captures the essence of the Peanuts gang’s holiday adventures. Its jazzy melodies are instantly recognizable and evoke feelings of nostalgia.
9. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” – Burl Ives (1964): Burl Ives’s voice is synonymous with the holiday season, and this album features his charming renditions of songs from the classic TV special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”
10. “Miracles: The Holiday Album” – Kenny G (1994): Kenny G’s smooth jazz interpretations of Christmas classics make for a soothing and melodic holiday experience. His instrumental versions breathe new life into traditional songs.
These top 10 selling Christmas albums have left an indelible mark on the holiday music landscape, each offering a unique perspective on the joy and magic of the season. Whether you’re looking to infuse your holiday gatherings with nostalgia, contemporary flair, or timeless elegance, these albums are the perfect soundtrack to your festive celebrations. So, as the holiday season approaches, consider adding these albums to your playlist and let the sounds of Christmas fill your home with warmth and cheer.