It’s the week after Thanksgiving and you know what that means…it’s officially holiday season, even if you act like the Grinch this time of year
It is during these times that we all listen to (or ignore, in some cases) something that only comes once a year; if you didn’t already guess it from this title, it’s Holiday Music. No matter what, we are all bound to hear quite a few holiday songs this December. The only thing that surprises me more than a terrible holiday song is when it is redone by a modern era singer or band (the song will not magically become better because of Mariah Carey). Don’t get me wrong though, there is some great stuff out there that really does pick up your spirits and helps you feel the warmth and comfort of family and friends during the holidays.
So without further ado, here is some of the best and worst holiday music albums/songs (remember, this is just one person’s opinion):
Best Albums:
Kenny G – Miracles: The Holiday Album
The ultimate collection of music to play in the background for a party or while with that “special someone”. With the soft saxaphone this instrumental album is a slightly different spin on traditional holiday music, but still very soothing. This album includes titles such as “Winter Wonderland” and “The Chanukah Song”.
Mannheim Steamroller – A Fresh Aire Christmas
Known as one of the highest selling holiday albums, just a great instrumental version of some great music to get you feeling jolly. This upbeat album includes the titles “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” and “Veni Veni”.
Shelby Lynne – Merry Christmas
Great country music holiday album with plenty of great upbeat songs for your listening pleasure. This album contains classic holiday songs including “Silver Bells” and “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer”.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra – Christmas Eve and Other Stories
They have the best rock/orchestra holiday show you will see anywhere in the U.S. This unique album includes titles such as “First Snow” and “A Mad Russian’s Christmas”. I highly recommend this album.
Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks – Crazy for Christmas
This album has a great smooth jazz/bluegrass sound making it a great unique holiday album. The fun sounds of this album include titles such as “Somebody Stole My Santa Claus Suit” and “I’ve Got Christmas By the Tail”.
Best Songs:
Paul McCartney and Wings – Wonderful Christmastime
People either love or hate this classic holiday tune. Personally I love it!
South Park – Dreidel Song
Hilarious. Enough said.
Woody Herman – Let it Snow!
Although this classic holiday song has been covered by numerous artists this one is definitely one of my favorites. Enjoy!
Adam Sandler –The Hanukah Song
Simply one of the funniest and most original holiday songs of all time.
Dinah Shore and Buddy Clark – Baby, It’s Cold Outside
Good song that gets you into the spirit of the winter weather. There are multiple versions, and I honestly like the version sang in Elf with Will Ferrell and Zooey Deschanel. I’m not sure if Ferrell actually sang it, but still good with a funny ending.
Worst Albums:
Susan Boyle – The Gift
Yes she may be an amazing singer, but this album is way too slow and intense for me. She has a great voice; too bad her holiday songs sound like nails on a chalk board.
Regis Philbin – The Regis Philbin Christmas Album
Really Regis? I’m think the only reason this CD came out is because his name is Regis Philbin.
Conway Twitty – A Twismas Story
If you like Conway as a country singer that’s one thing, but this album is (Con)way too cliche for holiday music.
Michael Bolton – The Christmas Album
I never really enjoyed Micheal Bolton, and every time I think of him I immediately think of Office Space.
The Chipmunks – Christmas with the Chipmunks
I doubt the Dhali Llama could sit through this one. Anybody that can listen to this entire album deserves a gold medal.
Worst Songs:
Door-to-Door Carolers – We Wish You a Merry Christmas
Can you please knock on my door and sing me something unique or different? This song is sung by every group of carolers, and I’m sorry I don’t have any friggin’ figgy pudding. WE GET IT.
Green Day – Jingle Bells
Punk rock and religion don’t really mix that well. If there’s going to be a guitar in anything religious, it better be a nylon string acoustic or an electric guitar in the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
Gloria Estefan – Love on Layaway
It’s a pretty romantic song, but the song is a little annoying, and the premise is not something that I’d really use to describe love. … Might as well be Love on Credit.
Bob Seger – Little Drummer Boy
I will never let 80’s rock die, but I can live without Seger singing holiday tunes. Especially this song.
Remember to add any songs you think should be considered the best/worst holiday music, and if you haven’t heard the new Beiber holiday album, it’s probably a good thing. Happy Holidays!!
Willhelm
I’m reading Principles of Microeconomics