30 Best Christmas Jazz Songs

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30 Best Christmas Jazz Songs & Covers

Planning a Christmas gathering? While festive music sets the mood, it’s easy to fall into the trap of overplayed holiday tracks.

If you’re seeking something more refined, consider the smooth and sophisticated tones of jazz and swing music to celebrate the season.

Christmas Jazz Songs
Christmas Jazz Songs

With timeless classics reimagined as jazz standards, a performance by a jazz band can make your event truly unforgettable.

Jazz offers an elegant and festive ambiance, making it perfect for work parties, holiday soirées, or cozy evenings by the fire.

Guests can relax, sip mulled wine, and enjoy the effortlessly cool melodies of holiday favorites.

Christmas Jazz Songs 

From legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra to modern icons like Michael Bublé and Norah Jones, this curated list of 30 jazz Christmas songs will help you embrace the season with style and ease, no matter how hectic the holidays get.

Whether you’re decorating the tree, hosting a drinks reception, or catching up with friends, these swing, jazz, and blues classics are the perfect soundtrack.

Top 30 Jazz Christmas Songs to Elevate Your Holiday Spirit

Frosty the Snowman – Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald’s 1960 album Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas is a treasure trove of holiday classics, and her rendition of Frosty The Snowman stands out as a jazzy favorite. Written by Walter Rollins and Steve Nelson in 1950, this beloved tune has seen countless covers by artists across genres. Fitzgerald’s interpretation brings a lively, swinging charm that makes it a timeless holiday staple.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas – Frank Sinat

Few Christmas songs evoke nostalgia like Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. Originally performed by Judy Garland in 1944 for the musical Meet Me in St. Louis, Frank Sinatra’s 1948 rendition introduced slightly altered lyrics that made the song his own. Warm and heartfelt, it’s a seasonal classic that feels like a cozy embrace every December.

Merry Christmas Baby – Etta James

Etta James brought her soulful flair to Merry Christmas Baby on her 1998 holiday album, 12 Songs of Christmas. Backed by smooth keys, trombone, and saxophone, this jazzy blues track is a standout. Originally recorded in 1947 by Johnny Moore’s Three Blazers, it has been covered by legends like Otis Redding, Elvis Presley, and Chuck Berry. James’ version, however, remains unforgettable.

The Christmas Song – Nat King Cole

Written on a sweltering summer day by Bob Wells and Mel Tormé, The Christmas Song was born from an effort to escape the heat by imagining winter’s chill. Nat King Cole’s iconic version transforms the tune into a cozy, heartwarming experience. It’s a quintessential holiday classic that embodies the spirit of Christmas.

Those Soulful Jingle Bells – Mark Whitfield

Jazz guitarist Mark Whitfield delivers a refreshingly soulful take on Jingle Bells. Known for his collaborations with jazz greats, Whitfield brings sophistication and style to this often-playful tune. His rendition offers an elegant alternative for those seeking a more refined holiday playlist.

Count Your Blessings – Barry Manilow

Featured on Barry Manilow’s 2007 album In The Swing Of Christmas, Count Your Blessings is a serene, jazzy number originally written by Irving Berlin for the movie White Christmas. Although it doesn’t explicitly reference the holiday season, its tranquil melody and reflective lyrics make it a perfect addition to any festive playlist.

Wintertime – Norah Jones

Wintertime by Norah Jones is a soft, bluesy seasonal track that highlights her signature sound. Released recently, its opening chords are reminiscent of her classic Turn Me On. As a Billboard-titled top jazz artist of the 2000s, Jones infuses her unparalleled talent into this song, making it a standout entry on our jazz Christmas list.

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town – Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé’s Christmas album, Christmas (2011), has become a holiday essential, and his big band rendition of Santa Claus Is Coming To Town is a standout. With its vibrant brass and Bublé’s smooth vocals, this version perfectly encapsulates the joyful energy of the season.

Little Jack Frost Get Lost – Seth MacFarlane and Norah Jones

Little Jack Frost Get Lost, from Seth MacFarlane’s album Holiday For Swing, is a delightful duet featuring Norah Jones. Backed by a 65-piece orchestra, this short but sweet track brings playful jazzy melodies and irresistible charm. Its lesser-known status makes it a refreshing addition to any holiday rotation.

10. Baby, It’s Cold Outside – Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan

Written in 1944 by Frank Loesser, Baby, It’s Cold Outside is a winter-themed classic that doesn’t explicitly mention Christmas. Originally performed by Loesser and his wife at Hollywood parties to signal the end of the night, the song was a playful cue for guests to leave. In 1949, Ella Fitzgerald recorded her iconic version with Louis Jordan and his Tympany Five, blending charm and jazz.

11. ’Zat You, Santa Claus? – Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong’s ’Zat You, Santa Claus?, recorded with The Commanders in 1953, has an eerie yet captivating vibe. With sharp trumpet melodies and a sneaky tempo, it stands out as a unique Christmas tune, evoking a playful, suspenseful energy reminiscent of A Nightmare Before Christmas.

12. A Marshmallow World – Seth MacFarlane

Originally popularized by Bing Crosby, A Marshmallow World has been reimagined in Seth MacFarlane’s swing-style rendition on his album Holiday for Swing. This whimsical tune paints a dreamy winter wonderland, with MacFarlane’s smooth vocals adding a contemporary yet nostalgic twist.

13. Holly Jolly Christmas – Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé’s upbeat take on Holly Jolly Christmas brings fresh energy to this classic. The original, sung by Burl Ives for the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer soundtrack in 1964, remains a beloved holiday staple, but Bublé’s soulful interpretation adds a modern flair.

14. White Christmas – Bing Crosby

Bing Crosby’s White Christmas is one of the most iconic songs of all time, selling over 50 million copies worldwide. Written by Irving Berlin in 1942, this nostalgic tune evokes a picture-perfect holiday season. Crosby’s timeless version earned the second spot on the Songs of the Century list, second only to Judy Garland’s Over the Rainbow.

15. Christmas in New Orleans – Louis Armstrong and Benny Carter

This jazz classic, released by Louis Armstrong in 1955, takes listeners on a vibrant musical journey. With a mix of soft piano moments and a bold horn section, Christmas in New Orleans celebrates the season with the unmistakable charm of jazz.

16. It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams

Andy Williams’ 1963 hit It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year is a festive anthem celebrating holiday traditions and togetherness. Written in triple time, it blends seamlessly into jazz and swing playlists, making it a seasonal favorite.

17. I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm – Frank Sinatra

Written by Irving Berlin in 1937, I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm exudes Sinatra’s signature style. This heartwarming tune is perfect for the season, offering a lesser-played but richly festive listening experience.

18. Christmas Time Is Here – Barry Manilow

Originally composed for the 1965 Charlie Brown Christmas special, Barry Manilow’s swing rendition of Christmas Time Is Here follows jazz guitarist Ron Escheté’s soft and soothing vibe. Its gentle melodies make it ideal for cozy holiday evenings.

19. I’ll Be Home for Christmas – Stephen Scott

Stephen Scott’s jazzy piano interpretation of I’ll Be Home for Christmas transforms the song with improvisational twists. Featured on the Verve Records album Let It Swing: A Jazz Christmas with Verve, this lively version brings sophistication to any gathering.

20. Silver Bells – Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett’s dreamy swing rendition of Silver Bells on his album A Swingin’ Christmas features the Count Basie Big Band. This Grammy-nominated classic remains a holiday favorite, showcasing Bennett’s signature charm.

21. Peace – Norah Jones

Norah Jones’ rendition of Horace Silver’s 1959 composition Peace is a tranquil jazz standard. With stunning harmonies and a soulful delivery, Jones’ 2016 version is perfect for serene moments during the holidays.

22. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald’s elegant version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer adds a jazz sophistication to this cheerful holiday classic. Originally released in 1949, the song has been covered by many, but Fitzgerald’s rendition stands out for its simplicity and charm.

23. Jingle Bells – Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters

Bing Crosby’s lively collaboration with The Andrews Sisters on Jingle Bells remains a holiday staple. Released on his 1945 album Merry Christmas, the song has delighted audiences for decades and holds a special place in Christmas music history.

24. Cool Yule – Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong’s Cool Yule is a high-energy jazz Christmas tune, filled with groovy trumpet lines and Armstrong’s unmistakable vocals. This lively track is an underrated gem perfect for festive celebrations.

25. Blue Christmas – Michael Bublé

While Elvis Presley’s version of Blue Christmas is iconic, Michael Bublé’s jazz interpretation adds an infectious energy. His passionate delivery and vibrant backing make it a standout rendition for the holiday season.

26. Run Rudolph Run – Chuck Berry

This 12-bar blues classic from 1958 by Chuck Berry is a festive rock-and-roll hit. Its upbeat tempo and danceable rhythm make it an essential addition to any holiday playlist.

27. Let It Snow – Michael Bolton

Michael Bolton’s swing version of Let It Snow, featured on his 2007 album A Swingin’ Christmas, captures the warmth of the holidays. Its romantic lyrics and cozy melodies evoke the joy of staying in on a snowy evening.

28. It’s Not Christmas ’Til You Come Home – Norah Jones

Norah Jones’ It’s Not Christmas ’Til You Come Home beautifully balances romance and melancholy. With heartfelt lyrics and a tender melody, it’s a poignant reminder of the importance of loved ones during the season.

29. Mistletoe and Holly – Frank Sinatra

Written by Frank Sinatra in 1957, Mistletoe and Holly celebrates festive traditions with Sinatra’s smooth vocals and a timeless arrangement. Featured on his first Christmas album, it’s a beloved classic.

30. The Christmas Waltz – Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett’s rendition of The Christmas Waltz brings elegance to this festive standard. Originally written for Frank Sinatra in 1954, the song captures the beauty of the holiday season with its graceful melody and heartfelt lyrics.

 

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