Baby, it's cold outside
This weekend we finally carved out several hours to set up Christmas decorations, and I am not at all exaggerating when I refer to that time in hours. I don't know why I thought it would be a good idea to buy 25 boxes of round ornaments, or why I thought the tree would have enough branches to hold that many, but we hadn't been hanging ornaments for thirty minutes before Leta announced she was bored. There were still 17 or 18 boxes of ornaments waiting patiently for a place on the tree, 17 or 18 boxes that I did not have the heart to send back up into that freezing attic space, and I suddenly remembered having this exact conversation with my own mother. I always got tired of helping her hang ornaments and would wander off to play with a box of Barbies, leaving her to do the bulk of the work. And since my mother was too generous to say what she was thinking, I went ahead told Leta what my mother should have said to me all those years: SUCK IT, KID.
You're welcome, Mom.
We'd been watching episode after episode of Spongebob all morning, and as Jon twisted a section of the artificial tree into place (he's allergic to real ones) he suggested I turn on some festive holiday music. And as I walked back to my computer to sift through our music collection I realized we don't have much to choose from. In fact, in the years that Jon and I have been together we've purchased only one album of Christmas music, A Charlie Brown Christmas, which has to be the most depressing Christmas music of all time. If you weren't on Prozac before you listened to that album, you'll be begging your therapist for a prescription by song two. That little bald kid cannot catch a break, and the whole album sounds like someone just beat him up and stole his lunch money. If the album were a Christmas card it would say, "I wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas despite my raging insecurities and social awkwardness." Basically, a sentence out of my diary in college.
After doing a quick search on iTunes, I realized I had no idea what I was looking for. Because whatever we play during this season is going to form lasting memories for Leta. I can appreciate the classics by Nat King Cole and Dean Martin, but my most fond memories of Christmas are always to the soundtrack of a kooky Osmond Family holiday album, or Alvin and the Chipmunks. I want to find something as equally nutty because, come on. THIS HOLIDAY IS NUTTY. Think about it. We're telling our four and five-year-olds that a fat man breaks into the house by sliding down the chimney. AND WE DON'T SHOOT HIM. We're asking them to believe that deer can fly. Seriously. This is not much different than telling them that once a year millions of people across the world strip naked and hop into a bathtub full of mustard. Why? Because Christ was born!
Noel!
The one album I did find that looked interesting is called Merry Mixmas
So I'm looking for suggestions, even though the answer may be to stick with The Chipmunks. Do you know of a Christmas album we should not live without?
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Heather talks about public tantrums (from kids) on today's Momversation.
- Bedtime, Leta lingering defiantly in the hallway. Jon: "If you want fart stories, you better get in bed RIGHT NOW."
- RIP Louis Mortimer Armstrong: http://bit.ly/1R4tv6
- Hugs and kisses to you, too! RT: @Monkey_Tree: @dooce he probably committed suicide because he was tired of LISTENING TO YOU WHINE.
1. Aisha said:
it's not nutty, but over the rhine is an amazing band and I'm fairly positive that they have a christmas album or two. The lead singer, Karin, is amazing. I have one of their live albums, it has some christmas music on it, and I have never loved christmas tunes more than I do when I hear those songs.
2. Hollie said:
Sufjan Steven's Christmas album is beautiful
3. Corinne said:
Dr. Demento's Christmas album.
It has "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas". Enough said.
4. lmariea said:
Our family favs are the Carpenter's Christmas Portrait and Rocky Mountain Christmas by John Denver. It's just not Christmas without them.
5. emma said:
Welcome to the hard, boring reality of Christmas decorating, Leta :)
I am partial to Jingle Cats, but I'm pretty sure that's no less annoying than Chipmunks.
6. Melissa said:
"A Rat Pack Christmas" is fantastic!
7. Vanessa said:
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas album, of course. Like you have to ask!
8. Amanda said:
I really love the mixes from Nettwerk Records--Maybe this Christmas, Maybe this Christmas Too and Maybe this Christmas Tree. They make me laugh (Ben Folds' Bizarre Christmas Incident) and sing along (Barenaked Ladies & Sarah Maclaclan) and take pause (Rudy by the Be Good Tanyas).
9. Gillian said:
Johnny Mathis and yes, dear dooce, the (sorry) Mormon (sorry) Tabernacle Choir! Bruce Cockburn's album is not nutty, but it is indeed fantastic. Manhattan Transfer also has one that I dig.
Oh, these probably aren't what you're looking for but they're what I grew up listening to. I'm excited to see what your readers come up with!
10. stephanie said:
Hotel Cafe - Winter Songs (GREAT!!!)
Bird and the Bee - Carol of the Bells (it's a single, not an album) but I got it from last year's Starbucks christmas album
Dean Martin - Baby it's cold outside
Martina McBride - O Holy Night. I'm not a country music fan, but I love her version of this song.
Pick through Jewel's Christmas music. Some of it sucks, but some is fun.
Sarah McLachlan's Winter Songs
And all of the "A Very Special Christmas". I like "Run Rudolph Run" by Sheryl Crow.
11. Kari S. said:
Jim Brickman has some holiday CD's that are really nice. He is a composer and plays the piano and has a couple of songs with a few famous singers here and there. But its just nice enough to blend into the background or not to toy with your emotions. Happy Holidays!
12. Chanel said:
Disney's version of the Christmas classics, of course! What can be nuttier than Goofy, Minnie, Mickey and the rest of the gang singing Christmas songs? :)
I always had fond memories of that album growing up.
13. alison said:
I can't live without Jim Brickman's Peace holiday album. It's piano and pretty mellow, but I can't do Christmas without it. Good background music for everything holiday. :)
14. Mari said:
I swear, as I finished reading your post, Chipmunks floated out of my living room singing Sleighride, courtesy of the newly minted teen!
Surreal. 3-D post.
15. Ciara said:
I am no help at all as I have only recently been able to stomach Christmas music this year. Whatever satellite radio has to offer as far as seasonal music is concerned did help me decorate the tree over the weekend. I can't wait to see pictures of Leta's reaction on Christmas morning!
16. Laurence said:
You want nutty? Get "Riders in the Sky Christmas The Cowboy Way"
17. Anonymous said:
Maybe Stephen Colbert's Xmas album?
18. Lisa said:
Hollie (#2) stole my answer! He's not really kooky though, unless being SUPER in love with Jesus is kooky. Which... ok. It's kooky, but really, really good.
19. Kristen said:
We always listened to the Holiday Sing Along with Mitch Miller. Nutty? I don't remember it being so. Lame? Probably. You should probably just stick with the Chipmunks. Merry Christmas!
20. Kels said:
Three suggestions: Sufjan Stevens Songs for Christmas, A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector, and Christmas in Soulsville. Or I could make you a Christmas mix that would blow your mind.
21. Dan said:
Monster Ballads X-Mas
22. Nathan Pralle said:
Trans-Siberian Orchestra's Christmas albums are a must. They are clever, they are catchy, and they rock. Great for kids and adults alike.
Mannheim Steamroller's Christmas albums are the other one. Classic and beautiful.
23. Anna said:
I am obsessed with holiday music, and have a bunch of albums. And I really think the best are:
* A Very Special Christmas - there are a lot of volumes, but I like the original the best. Plus, proceeds go to the Special Olympics!
* Now That's What I Call Christmas! Volumes 1 - 3. I kind of hate the NOW! albums, but the Christmas albums have a great mix of classic songs, nutty ones, and modern versions of classic songs. Volume 3 has "The Chipmunk Song" AND "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."
* Christmas with the Rat Pack. The classics at their best!
24. heather Boaz said:
John Denver and the Muppets "A christmas together"
oh yes.
25. Manda said:
I recommend any of the Ultra Lounge Christmas Cocktail CDs, or there is an awesome one called Martinis & Mistletoe, which is very funky.
Otherwise just get one of those ones where all the songs are done by dogs barking... Leta will probably hate it, but thats the point right? :D
26. Brandy said:
Sufjan Stevens! You will LOVE it.
I also love the classics: Sinatra, Harry Connick Jr, etc
27. Dari said:
I grew up with the Carpenters Christmas Album and I still love it... also, this is kind of embarassing to admit but I love the Amy Grant Christmas album as well! Classics.
28. Erin M said:
Muppets + John Denver = A Christmas Together. Super-fun!
29. holly said:
here are three:
john denver & the muppets
kenny burrell "have yourself a soulful little christmas
new orleans christmas by the putumayo world music people
best!
30. Patty said:
I love the Roches Christmas album, We Three Kings. It has a bunch of songs on it, so it seems to just go on and on. It also has just the right mix of nutty and reverent. But then, you might think it's totally something you would hear in an elevator. I will always like the Roches because my high school music teacher, who I had a huge crush on, introduced them to me in 1978. Good times.
31. katliz said:
I stopped buying Christmas CDs when woxy.com started their annual holiday mixer channel. A good friend of mine programs it every year and he includes indie hits as well as Regis and Kathy Lee cheese. It's priceless.
http://woxy.lala.com/holiday.php
32. lizandboys said:
Are you kidding me?? You don't have a recording of this
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtqIM_bPTws?
I love the album by Jim Nabors (sounds crazy, but he has a wonderful voice (http://www.google.com/musicl?lid=lgZjvhHX_ZO&aid=Af3Zbt5ZBvO&sa=X&oi=mus...)
33. ...love Maegan said:
New Kids Christmas album, that's what I always go with ...HEY DONNIE!
34. Natalie said:
John Denver and the Muppets.
DO IT.
35. Victoria said:
I'm partial to Raffi's Christmas and John Denver and the Muppets. Miss Piggy singing Twelve Days of Christmas has to be the best ever!
36. Rebecca said:
I don't know what's any kookier than Jingle Dogs. Such awesomeness!
37. Daddy Scratches said:
If it's nutty you seek, perhaps "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas"?
As for me, I've been sticking with SIRIUS XM's non-stop, commercial-free, holiday-music channels ... although I did get so sick of the genre last night, I actually downloaded and played repeatedly a song by the rapper T.I. ... which, if you knew me, would be about as random as if I had decided to suddenly shave all of my body hair.
38. Lisa said:
I like BNL's Bare Naked for the Holidays. It's a bit nutty. I don't think it is on iTunes though. It wasn't last year, I had to go and actually buy the CD.
39. Marigoldie said:
Despite his bizarre hair and violent ways, Phil Spector's Christmas Album from 1963 always does it for me.
40. jaja said:
BONEY M. I repeat, BONEY M. A staple of my childhood.
41. Tracy said:
My husband is a big music nerd and he writes at about.com for kids music he put up a list of some cool kids Christmas music.
http://kidsmusic.about.com/od/toppicks/tp/christmas.htm
(the list does in fact include Alvin and the Chipmunks and The Muppets)
42. De in D.C. said:
The John Denver / Muppets Christmas album. This is tradition in my husband's family and I have to say, after the first 3 or 4 years, it has definitely become embedded in my brain. It's a mix of traditional and kooky Muppets stuff.
http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Together-John-Denver/dp/B000GFLJFE/ref=s...
43. Liz said:
I gotta second the Sufjan Stevens vote. It is one seriously charming Christmas album.
44. Ali said:
Bare Naked Ladies Christmas album. I'm not usually a fan, but their covers are fun and quirky and light. A highlight is a duet with the aforementioned Sarah M.
Plus, the title is "Bare Naked for the Holidays."
It just keeps on giving.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGVNzgUxE-g&feature=related
45. Anonymous said:
John Prine's Christmas
46. Meghan said:
Hands down: Diana Krall Christmas Songs
47. Claudia said:
Most of our Christmas music is free CD's from Canadian Tire. Pathetic and entirely Canadian artists.
48. Stephanie said:
Okay, I should finish reading before posting.
None of those are particularly nutty - (Maybe Run, Run, Rudolph or whatever the hell it's called.)
Christmas Wrapping by the Waitresses is a fun 80's classic.
And if you're of my generation, "Funky, Funky Christmas" by the New Kids on the Block is fun... but if you're NOT a fan of theirs (or weren't) I do think their "I Still Believe In Santa Claus" is a cute song.
I love Christmas music.
49. LizardBreath said:
The Time Life collections are excellent - very traditional.
50. Hayley said:
Being Jewish, and having worked in retail for 8 years after high school, I have a bit of a love hate relationship with holiday tunes. A few here and there and I can muster a grin and maybe hum a few bars. More than that, I get the feeling like someone is going to yell at me for being sold out of something the MUST have RIGHT NOW!
So, my one and only all year long enjoyable holiday song is "Fairytale of New York" by the Pogues and Kristy MacColl.
Not the nuttiest, or perhaps the most appropriate for you to share with Lita just yet, but a great song anyway.
Best of luck on your music hunt.
51. Wendy said:
Jingle Cats, John Denver and the Muppets, A Christmas Cocktail (http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Cocktail-Jaymz-Royal-Orchestra/dp/B00000...), and the KING of all wacky Christmas albums: A Star Wars Christmas (http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Stars-Star-Wars-Album/dp/B0000033VG).
52. mommylap said:
The Phil Spector Christmas Album. Best arrangements of classic carols with just enough nuttiness.
53. wrongshoes said:
Another vote for Sufjan Stevens. It's pretty nutty, though maybe not the kind of nutty you have in mind.
54. yogagrrl said:
The John Denver + the Muppets Christmas albums is probably my favorite, hands down.
For the non-traditional (and possibly not recommended for kids) check out the No Ho Ho Alternative Indie Xmas album (which features the classics, My First Christmas (As a Woman) and Stoned Soul Christmas)...
My favorite holiday songs this year: Feliz Navidad (always), Let it Snow by Luscious Jackson and She's a Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas by Patent Pending.
55. Robin said:
The Supersuckers' "Motherfuckers be trippin'" ... oh wait, did you say Christmas music? Oh, yeah, I got nothing for that.
56. Jack and Jill Put Up A Blog said:
We just hung up ornaments this weekend too. What we do is put on Xmas movies: "White Christmas" or "Holiday Inn"
57. Charlotte said:
There are 2 CDs called Nick at Night: A Classic Cartoon Christmas. They have songs from all of the Christmas cartoons we watched as kids... as well as some freaky ones. (Mr. Magoo anyone?)
58. stealthnerd said:
The best suggestion I can offer for that is to check my blog from last week. While this looks like a not-so-cleverly disguised ploy to attract new readers, it's really just my answer to that question. My ex made a pretty awesome mix and I put all the songs (plus a few of my own) on there!
59. Zoe said:
Hello Heather. I've only just started reading your blog and I love it! (Congrats to you by the way - I'm 12 weeks pregnant and know how you feel). I think for kooky, you can't beat the Chipmunk Christmas Song but two of my Christmas soul classics are Mavin Gaye's "Purple Snowflakes" and Donny Hathaway's "This Christmas." You could try subjecting Leta to some of the old claymation Christmas specials we used to have on TV in the early 80s? They're pretty kooky, after a fashion?
60. Sara said:
The Carpenter's Christmas album! This is the album my mother made us listen to when we were young, but I can't imagine being without it now!
And definitely get The Darkest Night of the Year by Over the Rhine - it's very chill, but excellent. I haven't heard their newest one, but this one is just about perfect.
61. Ashley said:
I gave up on the albums and made my own mix...where else can you find Eartha Kitt, NKTOB, Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, Barenaked Ladies, and (of course) the Chipmunks playing together in a weird and merry way? I do have to disagree with you, though, about the Charlie Brown Christmas soundtrack. I hear "Christmas is Coming" and immediately start dancing Peanuts-style :)
62. Kerri said:
Brian Setzer Orchestra has several great holiday albums -- a twist on the classics plus really fun originals. My nieces and nephews LOVE the whole big band/swing vibe. One of my favs is Boogie Woogie Christmas.
63. Wendy said:
I'm sorry to say I don't have a favorite Christman album I play for my kids. We usually resort to internet music via yahoo. It comes with our account. And if I'm not sleep deprived I don't normally mind listening to the same twenty songs over and over and over for three weeks. There is a kids xmas(with some chipmonks music) station and a more traditional grown up xmas station. I prefer the kids Christmas music myself. I am happy to say my kids hung up all the ornaments on our tree. Yes, the top and back are a bit bare, but it's so much better than doing it myself.
64. Shannon said:
It's not an album, but whenever my husband and I are looking for nutty Christmas music inspiration we load up somafm.com's "Xmas in Frisko" station. Some of the songs require screening for attentive 4-year-old ears, but the majority are weird and fun and totally memorable. A lot of their choices are artists that have entire albums of off-the-wall Christmas music (as opposed to one-off singles).
65. Sophia said:
Check out the Christmas CD by the Squirrel Nut Zippers. Very fun.
66. faz said:
Not necessarily nutty, but a little more modern holiday:
-Come Darkness, Come Light by Mary Chapin Carpenter
-Do You Hear What I Hear, Various Artists (Nettwerk)
-The Hotel Cafe Presents Winter Songs (esp. Sara Baraielles (sp?) and Brandi Carlisle)
-My Holiday, Mindy Smith
-The Spirit of Giving, New Pornographers
-Peace at Last, Hem
-One more drifter in the Snow, Aimee Mann
-Cool Yule, Bette Midler
Definitely nutty: Suddenly it's Christmas, Loudon Wainwright III
67. Anonymous said:
The radio! Turn to any station that you don't normally listen to, and it'll probably be playing christmas music. If not, change up or down a few until you find one that is. Funny thing is, they don't play a few x-mas songs at a time, it's 24/7 until January.
68. Amanda of Shamelessly Sassy said:
Robert Allen Keen's 'Merry Christmas From the Family' is pretty funny. Granted it is pretty country and ridiculous. But still, so very funny.
69. mandi said:
Raffi's christmas CD. It is christmas music with a folksy style to it! It's for kids, but I have to admit i love it along with my 2 year old. We bought this when I realized we didn't have any christmas music either.
70. Heidi Renée said:
My sister and I used to poop out on our mom when decorating the tree, but once we got to be teenagers she made us stick around to finish it (bad attitudes and all--I guess sullen help is better than no help).
I think Leta needs to hear "me I want a huuuula hoooooop" on the Chipmunks album. It's a rite of passage!
71. Barb said:
I am partial to a lot of classic music but you asked for memories for Leta... so I asked my kiddos for their must-hear Christmas tunes. Their answers: Disney Classic Christmas (not pop Disney, I'm talking Mickey & Goofy singing 12 Days of Christmas) and Rockapella Christmas (which is available on iTunes) their rendition of the Grinch is a big hit around here.
72. Olivia said:
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" is a must. It's probably the best movie version of the book. It's so fucking adorable and the songs are so catchy("Only One More Sleep 'til Christmas", we sing this all year round, except during July we always say stuff like "Only 157 More Sleeps 'til Christmas").
My best Christmas memories are watching this movie in the cold, December winter of Indianapolis with my aunt. I remember the whole house having a dimly lit Christmas glow, with the presents all already under the tree and the three of us eating Russian Creme Custard that we only get during this time of year. I really cannot recommend this movie more, actually. It has the same kind of spunky yet traditional Christmas spirit that the Chipmunks have.
73. Heather said:
Boney M Christmas Album
74. MustangSally said:
This is why I love Rhapsody, Pandora and other online radio stations. All the music, none of the commitment. There are a ton of Christmas-only stations. Here are some: http://www.live365.com/cgi-bin/directory.cgi?genre=seasonal%2fholiday.
75. ST said:
Not an album but a song, "I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas". I love this song and started singing it one day to annoy my husband, but he ended up liking it, so now we walk around the house singing/humming this song and it is hysterical. Now my 4 year old niece loves it and I know we'll be singing it for our own kids one day, ha ha!
76. Beth said:
THE WAITRESSES - Christmas Wrapping
Best X-Mas song ever!
77. Tarynn said:
Elvis, Baby! Love the Elvis Christmas Album-just kitchy enough. Also, Harry Connick Jr. Christmas stuff is awesome. I was a chipmunk Xmas baby, too.
78. India said:
Have you heard of Sufjan Stevens? I just finally got his Christmas EP collection this year, and I can't stop listening to it. And I'm pretty picky about most holiday music - if it's not Mahalia Jackson, or Dr Demento's Christmas album, I'll block it out or turn if off. (Oh, also, the south park christmas songs).
Speaking of, do they have the Dr Demento Christmas 'Novelty' album on Itunes? My favorite all-time Christmas song since before I can remember is Cheech and Chong's "Santa Claus and His Old Lady" - even before I could understand most the jokes. A close second is "Nuttin for Christmas" which I'm sure Leta will be able to relate to soon :) ("I'm gettin nuttin for Christmas.... cuz I ain't been nuttin but bad")
79. Darrell said:
CHRIS BOTTI - DECEMBER is an outstanding CD
80. Katy said:
I must say the Veggietales christmas album is fantastic. I mean the 12 Polish foods of Christmas is probably the best part, but junior asparagus belting out a song about sheep is pretty much as cute as it gets. I suggest that one. (We have it and we don't even have young kids at home...yet)
81. Erin said:
I grew up listening to Elvis Presley's Christmas music. It is most wonderful and deeply fitting considering your southern roots.
82. Anonymous said:
Is it ok that I really can't stand Christmas?
83. La Gitana said:
You're gonna think I'm CRAZY, but my favorite Christmas album is A Very Ally Christmas. It's a Christmas album featuring a lot of the Ally McBeal cast. My favorite rendition of "River" is on that CD and it's sung by Robert Downy Jr. I fully realize how wacky I sound, but this is really an interesting album.
84. Lola said:
my favorite christmas record is a very special christmas volume 1. my mom listened to it as we grew up and i love it.
and of course, the chipmunks.
85. notjustbarbra said:
I never comment here, but I am delurking to say GET "BARENAKED FOR THE HOLIDAYS" BY THE BARENAKED LADIES. GET IT NOW!
It is nutty, oh so very nutty.
And it has a couple of just really nice ones mixed in to make you feel a little warm and fuzzy, too.
And since I went through the effort of clicking over from Google Reader and delurking, you know I feel a lot of love for this album. I'd love to hear what you think of it.
86. Brianne said:
The Carpenter's, A Christmas Portrait. I grew up listening to it on my mom's record player every year. Loves it.
87. Tim Murtaugh said:
I must pile on and suggest John Denver and the Muppets. Amazing, nutty, lovely, even poignant at times.
88. Andrew S. said:
The nuttiest album I know is Elmo and Patsy's Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer. My grandma got me hooked on it years ago. I bought her a mechanical reindeer that sang it even.
http://www.amazon.com/Grandma-Got-Run-Over-Reindeer/dp/B00000263B
89. Twin Sis said:
My Morning Jacket has a wonderful Christmas EP. It's only 3 or 4 songs, but they're lovely (although a little on the mellow side).
I also like the Hotel Cafe CD that came out this year (not every song, but most), and I love the Barenaked Ladies/Sarah McLaughlin duet, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.
Lastly, I will join with the others above who have recommended Sufjan Steven's X-mas CDs...the whole collection is amazing!
Happy Holidays, Dooce!
90. stephanie said:
Oh, and if by nutty you mean weird, Aimee Mann's Christmas album. Cause Aimee Mann doing Christmas is freakin' weird.
91. Julie said:
My personal favorites are Amy Grant, but that's pretty religious, and Celine Dion. Mariah Carey is always fun! None of those are too nutty though.
My recommendation for you - The Beach Boys!
92. Lissa said:
Perhaps just select the types of songs you like on Pandora....FREE !
Lissa
93. Jen said:
The one nutty Christmas song from my childhood I can't live without is "Six White Boomers" by Rolf Harris.
Other than that, we were tortured annually with the Boney M Holiday album.
94. Lida said:
I second the New Orleans Christmas music. I also like the Elf Soundtrack (Zooey Deschanel's voice is amazing on "Baby It's Cold Outside.")
95. wookie said:
Personally, I tend towards the instrumental Christmas albums, I've got a Jazz/Blues themed album, a couple of typical orchestral mixes, one that is predominately piano, one brass. I just find them FAR less annoying than the ones where anyone is singing.
96. Anonymous said:
Elvis presley...awesome christmas album
97. ruk said:
Swing into Christmas with the Brian Setzer Orchestra!
http://www.myspace.com/bsoxmas
98. katie said:
Stan and Doug Yust Go Nuts at Christmas. My family had this record when I was a kid, and i LOVED it. and it is nuts, or at least it was to me when i was a kid. And even now, just thinking about it, I'd dying of laughter and wondering why the hell I don't own it.
99. the dalai mama said:
Mannhiem Steamroller Orhcestra is a classic. We have a few homemade CD's that friends gave us and I don't for the life of me know who signs what songs.
Norman Rockwell: Favorite Christmas Songs--a good mix of artists.
My mom use to make us all leave the house when she would do the tree--she's a bit of a control freak and would never let 15 ornaments on one branch. She had a spot for everything.
100. leila said:
I love love love Aimee Mann's Christmas Album: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_More_Drifter_in_the_Snow
It might be the perfect thing for when you want some holiday music that doesn't scream HOLIDAY MUSIC at you. It was on repeat last year in my household. (And by the way if you ever have a chance to see her holiday variety show live, do it!)
101. Lindy said:
John Fahey Christmas Guitar--instrumental, but amazing.
102. Steven said:
Apart from Sufjan Stevens' Christmas boxed set, which has been mentioned, and Mariah Carey's "Merry Christmas," which should go without saying, Rosie Thomas released a nice Christmas album this year ("A Very Rosie Christmas"). "Why Can't It Be Christmastime All Year" is a great song, anyway, even if some of the rest of the album skews a bit morose.
103. Molly said:
Stephen Colbert's "A Colbert Christmas" has really kept me in a good mood this year. My two favorites off this album are "Another Christmas Song" and "There Are Worse Things to Believe In."
Lots of people have mentioned Sufjan's Christmas music. It's beautiful and just the right mix between traditional and non-traditional. I love it!
Putamayo's Christmas albums are really fun, too.
104. Shellie said:
The Bare Naked Ladies have a great holiday cd. Although, when I heard my 5 year old say "lets listen to the naked ladies song" I stopped in my tracks for a second.
Anyway - it is equal parts good and nutty.
105. Kerri said:
gene autry -- in honor of your southern roots, "when santa claus gets your letter" can't be beat
and mitch miller's holiday sing-a-long
http://music.barnesandnoble.com/search/product.asp?r=1&EAN=74646597323&o...
"must be santa" = best christmas song ever
106. Phoo-D said:
I agree with many above, John Denver and the Muppets deserves a place in any crazy but kid friendly holiday rotation. Somehow Kermit's voice singing carols burns a hole in your permanent memory of the holidays!
107. Anonymous said:
Your child seriously needs to hear some chanukah songs along with all that yule log music.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Chanukah_Song
108. Melissavina said:
Three that I love this year:
This Warm December : Brushfire records artist compilation.
Winter Songs : Hotel Cafe artist compilation.
Snow Angels: Over the Rhine (also pick up their album Ohio for the rest of the year)
This one proved a good album for the past two years:
Barenaked for the Holidays : Barenaked Ladies
109. Laird Nelson said:
64 comments and not ONE reference to Christmas with Conniff?
http://tinyurl.com/5zvy5r
Featuring the lyric:
Just a sprinkle of reindeer dust
A sprig of mistletoe
And the sound of his laughter
As he flies above the snow
(from Christmas Bride)
Oh, and:
What is the meaning of Christmas?
It is the celebration
Of the birth of the
Christ Child
{bong}
This we must never forget
O this we must never forget
{pause}
But there are other little things too
...straight on into an ode to Santa Claus. Go 1950s materialism!
The women sing in the left speaker; the men in the right. Delicious cheese-o-rama reverb everywhere. Chuck will love it.
110. lpp said:
John Denver and the Muppets.... you will laugh, cry and then play it all over again
111. Nikki said:
Christmas in Hollis - Run DMC
:)
112. Becky said:
SUFJAN STEVENS.
You won't regret it.
Do it do it do it do it.
(it's the only christmas album I have and I LOVE IT)
113. Cori said:
Another vote for John Denver & the Muppets.
114. Meegan said:
I'm fond of the Home Alone soundtrack and any of Robert Goulet's christmas albums.
(Sidenote: I witnessed Robert Goulet sing "Happy Birthday" at full booming volume to an old lady in a Thai restaurant once and I've loved him ever since. RIP Mr. Goulet)
115. Katie said:
I've found the "NOW! That's What I Call Christmas!" mixes to be pretty good. I have the first 3, and they just released a new one this year. They have the Dean Martin/Perry Como/Frank Sinatra favorites in addition to Burl Ives singing songs from those terrible claymation Christmas movies and pop stars reinventing the traditional songs. I even have "You're a Mean One, Mr Grinch."
(I also tend to really like South Park's "Mr. Hankey's Christmas Classics," but she's probably still a bit young for that)
116. Elizabeth said:
This has probably been said, but for Kooky, I would have to recommend Dr. Dimento's Christmas album, it has all the classic kooky songs. But I'm also quite fond of The Muppets Christmas carol and some random Disney Christmas album I had as a kid. At least once in each album the muppets/disney characters go completely bonkers and their laughing/crashing/screaming totally drowns out the carol that is playing. Classic.
117. jive turkey said:
Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass's Christmas Album. TRUST.
118. Heather said:
-Sufjan Stevens;
-Motown Christmas;
-Nicole C Mullens Christmas in Black and White (some great kids sing and dance along songs)
-Bruce Cockburn's Christmas CD is melancholy but lovely.
119. Jessica said:
I know others have already suggested this, but my husband and I both grew up with and love John Denver and the Muppets' Christmas album. There are some great nutty moments as well as some beautiful and poignant songs. To me, it's not Christmas without this album. And to my husband, it's not Christmas without a real tree... unfortunate for me, since (like Jon) I am allergic to them. :-P
120. Bridge said:
My family insists that it's nutty - but I'm not sure it's exactly what you're looking for. My very favorite Christmas album is A Christmas Album by Amy Grant (recorded in 1983). I hate the one part where she yells "Yoo Hoo" on Sleigh Ride, but I love the rest of it.
Then again, my iPod is full of such ridiculousness that no one ever wants to listen to it but me. Except my eight year old brother. He always wants to hear Mississipi Squirrel Revival and the Devil Went Down to Georgia. Kookiness runs in my family, I suppose.
121. ballerinatoes said:
1. The Chipmunks are a timeless classic. Yesterday, Today, Forever!
2. I second, third, forth and fifth comments for: John Denver and The Muppets.
3. Robert Earl Keen's "Merry Christmas from the Family." Because that song IS my ex-husband's family. God love 'em.
122. Sheila said:
Not sure if you're willing to do this yourself, but I just gather all my favorite Christmas songs and make my own CD. Some of my favorites:
1. Wham! / Last Christmas
2. Waitresses / Christmas Wrapping
3. Band-Aid / Do They Know It's Christmas
4. U2's (also Death Cab covers it) / Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)
5. Madonna / Santa Baby
6. Rufus Wainwright / Spotlight on Christmas
7. No Doubt / Oi to the World
I can go on and on...
123. tracy said:
my faves: A Rat Pack Christmas, Ray Charles' Christmas album (can't remember the title), Transiberian Orchastra & Manheim Steamroller, Chipmunks (have to buy this one still), Time Life Christmas collection has all the classics (just don't order it through Time-Life or they'll ever stop calling you), Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, Elvis, and of course, Harry Connick Jr.
124. Diane said:
What about the sountrack from Love Actually? We always watch that movie around Christmas time and it is plenty quirky at times. Some good/some silly music in that movie. Another good one is A Very Special Christmas, Vol. 2!
125. Red said:
HOLY BALLS, has no one listed the Grinch Original Movie Soundtrack?? Ben Folds, the Eels, and Smash Mouth grace the album, and it's pretty awesome.
Also, Crystal Lewis who is some sort of PROTESTANT :) has a kick-ass funky jazz album called Holiday! that will make you shake your butt all over the house. At least, that's what I do. Naked. And alone. Maybe not the best for families, then...
126. Tara said:
I second the reco for BONEY M. It is just not xmas without it.
127. jenn said:
def. sufjan stevens
have yourself a very indie christmas
song titles?
all that i want - the weepies
sister winter - sufjan stevens
only at christmas time - sufjan stevens
the christmas song- the raveonettes
christmas song - mogwai
have yourself a merry little christmas - coldplay
christmas is going to the dogs - eels
this christmas - loius xiv
no christmas while i'm talkin - the walkmen
christmas at the zoo - flaming lips
baby please come home - deathcab for cutie
do you hear what i hear? - copeland
maybe this christmas - ron sexsmith
blue christmas - bright eyes
25th december - everything but the girl
**the first song- band of horses** best ever!
i dont know, i'm tired of typing.. i made a playlist on playlist.com of the seriously most kickass christmas music..
http://www.playlist.com/staygolden
brian setzer has some good chrimmus tunes also.
128. Jen said:
The nutty stuff my family listened to while decorating the tree were:
Alvin and the Chipmunks holiday album
PacMan Holiday album (don't ask)
Some Sesame Street album. It wasn't a holiday album but I do remember it had the rubber ducky song.
129. Stacie said:
1 word: Pandora
130. Francine Clement said:
McGarrigle sisters Christmas Hour (or a title resembling that). With a few songs by Rufus and Martha Wainwright. Beautiful music.
131. repliderium.com said:
I am allergic to Christmas music. They start playing it so damn early that by the time it's actually Christmas, I'm ready to gouge my own eyes out at the mere mention of the next greatest celebrity crooning some old classic. I say that you should make the impressionable Leta stand out in a crowd in her later years. Make her Christmas soundtrack something original... how about The Pouges? "Fantasy of New York should be everyone's holiday favorite!!!!
132. Cassie said:
The first holiday cd we listen to every year is Neil Diamond's Christmas. Mostly because every year my husband says "A Jewish man singing Christmas songs... that's awesome" Every. Year.
My fav Christmas music is Jon Schmidt's Christmas cd. It makes me all happy inside.
133. Reid said:
Not so crazy... but I LOVE LOVE LOVE me some Bing Crosby over the holidays (think Big Crosby's White Christmas)... a fun album for Leta would be Target's "All Wrapped Up!" album that features Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, the Jonas Brothers, etc. singing holiday songs. It's good stuff!
134. Andi said:
Weird Al, who is probably on the Dr. Demento compilations: The Night Santa Went Crazy and Christmas at Ground Zero :)
135. Anonymous said:
Either of the Alligator Records Christmas collections
Only seasonal music you'll ever need,and yes- the grownups will like it too
136. Anonymous said:
Sesame Street Christmas. Bert and Ernie's version of A Gift of the Magi and Oscar's "I Hate Christmas" are two of the memories that I have from hanging those ornaments as a kid.
And another vote for John Denver and the Muppets.
Put these two albums together and you have muppet delight for hours.
137. A said:
Christmas with Willie Nelson. My mom has the record and we still listen to it. To hear the twang in "Pretty paper" - it's priceless. I'm not a huge country music fan, but it just isn't Christmas without Mr. Nelson.
138. kellyS said:
Can't think of any but the classics either. And few of them appeal. There was a mix done with Annie Lennox a few years ago that I like.
however,
your story of mustard made me think of Bill Hicks and his comment on xmas as a hilarious concept. He mentioned a kid saying to his mom "the goldfish jumped out of the bowl and put a lincoln log in his sock drawer--and his mom saying that is the story of christmas!"
139. Karo said:
I love any Bob Rivers Christmas album... here's one that has the angel song, one of the best.
140. Susan said:
Let me preface this by saying that I am NOT a John Denver fan. That being said, my all-time favorite Christmas album (and that of my entire family) is John Denver & The Muppets - A Christmas Together. Growing up, my parents had the album (vinyl - gasp!) and we listened to it SO MANY times. It eventually developed a scratch, causing it to skip during one of the songs and today, when I listen to it on CD, I still anticipate that skip.
141. April said:
Go to WOXY.com or SOMAFM.com and listed to their streaming Christmas radio.
I have all the "classics", but these stations give me Sufjan, Calexico, Arcade Fire, Mogwai, and other non-traditional Christmas tunes without having to buy five million albums. It's like a free, never-ending Christmas mix of awesome.
142. Andy O. said:
I recommend checking out Esquivel's Christmas album, "Merry Xmas From the Space-Age Bachelor Pad."
http://www.amazon.com/Merry-Xmas-Space-Age-Bachelor-Pad/dp/B0000048EZ/
All the "zips" and "zoo-ahs" are great!
143. ecs said:
Chiptunes!
http://www.8bitpeoples.com/discography/by/the_8bitpeoples
144. Beth said:
Two suggestions: The Roches We Three Kings http://www.roches.com/discography/wethreekings.html (odd yet beautiful renderings of some traditional Christmas music)
Dave Carter and Tracy Grammer, American Noel http://www.signaturesounds.com/onlinestore/moreinfo.cfm?Product_ID=351&C... or http://www.tracygrammer.com/html/merch.html
A couple traditional songs, but some written by Dave Carter, an amazing songwriter. How could you miss with "giddyup said Santa Claus, Dasher get your mittens 'cause it's getting mighty cold outside"?!
145. Elizabeth said:
It's not nutty, but I love the Brian Setzer Orchestra Christmas albums, and my two-year-old is having a fantastic time bouncing around the house to them.
I actually need to find myself a Boston Pops Christmas album, because it is the music that reminds me of decorating and baking when I was a kid.
146. Nora said:
So they aren't nutty, but a fun blend of music:
Any of the "A Very Special Christmas" CDs, I think they have upwards of 10 volumes now? My favorite one which I had on cassette and have since made into a CD was A Very Special Christmas Volume 4. Don't ask me why. Just is.
147. Emily Kaye said:
Seriously, the Sufjan Stevens one is fantastic and even a touch nutty. Also, I don't think it's out on CD but I really love A Muppet Christmas Carol. It's really brilliant. Also, the Home Alone 2 soundtrack. Not 1. 2. Lost in New York. Way better than the first one.
148. Ajah said:
Our family cannot make it through the holidays without John Denver & the Muppets Muppet Christmas....the best
149. Kristina said:
My family and I have been listening to the Sesame Street Christmas (try to get your hands on the 1975 Elmo-free version) - it has rap, salsa, and two nerdy little plays involving Bert and Ernie where they end up singing xmas songs, plus a sesame-ized version of 12 Days of Christmas, so Leta might just like it, too.
That said, Nat King Cole is a must in our house, but I'd recommend anything with Ella and/or Louis Armstrong if you don't hate them because that's good stuff.
150. sinda said:
OK, I'm too lazy to sift through the comments to see if you got this one already, so here's my suggestion: The Muppet's Christmas with John Denver. My girls LOVE it! I will say that they skip past the sappy Denver songs, and only listen to the ones sung by or with Muppets, so given a chance to do it over, I'd only download those songs.
151. Kalisa said:
Album? No. But here's the playlist I put together for my holiday party. You'll find some fun & funky stuff in there:
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen/ We Three Kings (Barenaked Ladies & Sarah McLachlin)
Santa Baby (Eartha Kitt)
Winter Wonderland (Eurythmics)
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) U2
Carol of the Bells (Manheim Steamroller)
Let it Snow (Michael Bluble)
The Christmas Song (Vince Guaraldi Trio)
Sleigh Ride (Ella Fitzgerald)
Angels We Have Heard on High (Reliant K)
The First Noel (Josh Groban & Faith Hill)
This Christmas (Chris Brown)
Dance of the Sugarplum Fairies (Harry Connick Jr)
Feels Like Christmas (Al Green)
All That I Want (The Weepies)
Gabriel’s Message (Sting)
What Child is This (Alison Krauss)
Frosty the Snowman (Cocteau Twins)
Carol of the Bells (The Bird and The Bee)
Little Drummer Boy (The Dandy Warhols)
Mr. Heatmiser (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy)
Last Christmas (Jimmy Eat World)
O Holy Night (DeNetria Champ)
Happy Xmas (War is Over) (John Lennon)
Father Christmas (The Kinks)
Let it Snow (The Brian Setzer Orchestra)
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree (Mary J. Blige & Sheryl Crow)
It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas (Harry Connick Jr)
Angels We Have Heard on High (Josh Groban & Brian McKnight)
Handel’s Messiah (Reliant K)
Boogie Woogie Santa Claus (The Brian Setzer Orchestra)
Merry Christmas Baby (Aaron Neville)
Santa Claus is Back in Town (My Morning Jacket)
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (Martha Wainwright)
Holly Jolly Christmas (The Format)
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (Local H)
I Believe in Father Christmas (Emerson Lake & Palmer)
Santa Baby (Everclear)
Silver Bells (Reliant K)
‘Zat You Santa Claus (Louis Armstrong)
152. Arboreality said:
http://falalalala.com/ -- free holiday mp3s from old vinyl records, lovingly restored by the blogger, who does a sort of Advent calendar of free music every December. You can download past collections, for free, too!
153. Anonymous said:
For good sappy Christmas music, I loved the Carpenters. They had a couple of Christmas albums released. Or how about Phil Spector's Christmas Album? It's got Darlene Love singing "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" -- one of my favorites
154. Angela said:
Jimmy Buffett's Christmas album. With lyrics like "HO HO HO and a bottle of rum, Santa's run of to the Carribean" you can't go wrong!
155. jaja said:
In case the Boney M album isn't your style (but how could it not be? It's awesome!) Here's some other songs you may or may not know:
Badly Drawn Boy - Donna and Blitzen (lovely)
Payolas - Christmas is Coming
Band-Aid - Do They Know It's Christmas (a classic)
Raveonettes - Christmas Song (very pretty)
Billy Squier - Christmas is the Time to Say I Love You
Ramones - Merry Christmas (I don't want to fight tonight)
the Pogues - Fairytale of New York
Sting - Gabriel's Message (that voice!)
Joni Mitchell - River (too sad?)
Dave Matthews Band - Christmas Song (also kind of a downer)
Slade - Merry Christmas Everybody
Tom Waits - Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis (amusing)
The Darkness - Christmas Time
156. Elizabeth said:
I have to agree with another commenter that "A Rat Pack Christmas" is excellent, but you must also try Merry Axemas. It is all Christmas, all guitar, all wonderful. I think there are two or three editions out now an they're great!
157. sinclair said:
Johnny Mathis is THE classic holiday music in my family. His version of Carol of the Bells is gorgeous, I could listen to just that track on repeat for many hours.
The Carpenter's christmas album is also a family staple.
Also highly recommended is Dan Fogelberg's holiday album "First Christmas Morning" - original songs mostly, very classical sounding and beautiful.
158. Stephanie said:
Oh man... I am going to spend $6,000 on itunes when I get home from work thanks to the comments on here!
159. Jen said:
Christmas Comedy Classics vol. 2
Yah Das Ist Ein Christmas Tree by Mel Blanc
Christmas at Ground Zero (pre 9-11) by Weird Al
The Twelve Days of Christmas by Bob and Doug McKenzie...but instead of a partridge in a pear tree, the first day's gift is a beer.
Classic.
160. Jenny K said:
I too, was going to suggest Sufjan Stevens' album, but it looks like a few people beat me to it. It's great, as is all of his stuff.
Then I saw the New Kids on the Block suggestion and to that i say: DO IT! NOW!
161. Margie said:
John Denver and the Muppetts... Got started on that when my kid was little . .
Johnny Mathis and Elvis Xmas albums . . Grew up with them
Josh Groban - Noel . . I LOVE his voice.
162. Valerie said:
Mercy Me - yes, they are a Christian Rock band but they do fabulous rock-tinged interpretations of classic Christmas songs (including a great version of Christmastime is Here from A Charlie Brown Christmas).
And of course, the Muppets with John Denver.
163. Jane Williams said:
Every Christmas we must break out the Elvis Christmas album. Last year we had moved everything to our computer and for whatever lame ass reason I didn't download it and I stopped Christmas until it was found. It's just a great one from the king himself. Enjoy!
164. Karla said:
Wow, the girl is from Memphis and there's no mention of Elvis? His version of Silver Bells brought me to tears while Christmas baking last weekend! I never feel like it's Christmas until I've heard his Merry Christmas Baby & Blue Christmas. Always the crowd favourite at my house growing up - my mom & older sister are huge fans.
But my new favourite is Christmas with Dino by Dean Martin which my mom gave me last year but we didn't listen to until this weekend - so much more than just Baby It's Cold Outside! I also second Sarah Mclachlan's Winter Songs. And Madeline Peyroux's album Half the Perfect World isn't entirely Christmas, but it has a Christmas-y feel. And she does do Greensleeves.
I usually load up my iPod and hook it up to the speakers for the annual company Christmas party, so I'm always looking for 'cool' and not-so-Christmasy Christmas music. I'll be checking out some of these suggestions, as well!
165. Maria said:
I have to jump on the John Denver & the Muppets A Christmas Together. We had this on a record when I was growing up and my mom rationed the number of times we were allowed to listen to it because my three sisters and I LOVED it and my Mom LOATHED it. Somewhere along the line I found it on a cassette tape and gave it to her as a joke. I'm pretty sure it was broken within minutes.
166. Cybil said:
Squirrel nut zippers X-mas album is a real treat.
167. Delicious Monster said:
Apparently the Christmas season starts the day after Halloween. Just about anything by Manheim Steamroller is good.
168. Jen said:
I second (third, fourth, whatever) "I Wanna Hippopotamus for Christmas". I also like the Muppet Christmas movie soundtracks. "Emmett Otter", "Muppet Christmas Carol" and "Muppet Family Christmas" are favorites, with songs ranging from silly to serious.
When I was little we always used to listen to the Chipmunks too... and I still have the record. Now all we need is a turntable!
169. Anonymous said:
Haven't found an entire nutty album. But, do have one very nutty song that is a staple in my house during Christmastime....are you ready?
"I farted on Santa's lap"...that's the title of the song! Funny stuff, the kids love it.
Here's a link to my blog post about this yuletide carol!!!
http://bullockpartyof5.blogspot.com/2008/12/christmas-is-gonna-stink-for...
170. Lori said:
The Muppets with John Denver, hands down the best Christmas memory-maker.
171. Terroni said:
On a sort of (which is to say, not really) related note...are you familiar with David Sedaris' 6 to 8 Black Men? If not, you must go find this reading for yourself. Immediately.
172. Amanda said:
"The Polar Express" soundtrack is really fun, and has some peppy, wacky songs (Hot Chocolate).
Love it.
173. Andrea said:
BareNaked for the Holidays from BareNaked Ladies!
174. Karo said:
Oh, I meant to add that it might be more of an adult album than for the kiddies...
175. Anneliese said:
We listen to Roger Whittaker's Christmas album. If you google him, you'll find to his credits that not only is he probably the hokiest person I have ever beheld, but he is also an avid "whistler". Sounds like Christmas to me.
http://www.rogerwhittaker.com/
176. Kate said:
Click on pandora.com and create your own streaming holiday mix. It's free and it's fabulous.
177. 180/360 said:
During college, I had a short stint working at Dillards and had to listen to the Chipmunks Christmas Album all day long for 3 months straight. I felt like I was going absolutely mental and besides the fact that it sucks to peddle bedding and towels, it's fair to say I quit solely because of that album.
Aside from that... I'm partial to Bing Crosby's White Christmas, which I realize makes me sound like a total geriatric, but I grew up listening to it on vinyl every year, and it wouldn't feel like Christmas without him crooning in the background.
That said, I'm definitely going to have to check out Sufjan Stevens. :_
178. M.R. said:
I really like John Denver's Rocky Mountain Christmas.
179. Emily said:
Mannheim Steamroller!! Maybe it sounds a little 80s, but it is the ideal background Christmas music (for tree-decorating, cookie-baking, drowning out childrens' yelling, etc.).
180. Natalie said:
Not nutty, but Sarah Mclachlan's Christmas album is lovely, as is anything by Harry Connick, jr. Of course, that's just because he evokes the good ole days and all of the classic rat pack stuff. I never liked Charlie Brown.
And, if you don't have the Chipmunks album from the recent movie, there's always that. It's playing on a continuous loop in our car right now and includes some non-christmas nuttiness; like my personal favorite - Funkytown. Yeah, watch Leta pronounce that! C'mon, it'll be fun.
181. Shelly said:
I'm not sure if you've ever heard of Hawksley Workman, but he's a Canadian musician who's pretty well-known for his well-written lyrics, stage presense and quirkiness. From what I've read you're into good music and, well, I think you'd like Mr. Workman.
His Christmas album is called "Almost A Full Moon" - it's funny, just the right amount of Holiday-ish without being unlistenable and it's awesome - and REALLY fun to sing along too.
http://www.hawksleyworkman.com/music/discography/cd/HW_AlbumDetails.aspx...
182. Meredith said:
Sufjan Stevens: Songs for Christmas! Also, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Mannheim Steamroller stuff is entertaining.
183. Melissa said:
How in the world did I not know that Over the Rhine had a Christmas album? Thank you, commenters!
184. shani said:
http://www.cowboylyrics.com/lyrics/keen-robert-earl/merry-christmas-from...
Robert Earl Keen
Merry Christmas from the family- I know you will appreciate it.
185. Heather said:
John Denver's "Rocky Mountain Christmas." This IS Christmas for me.
Lessee. On my mixed CD:
"Kidnap the Sandy Claws" from "The Nightmare before Christmas"
Bob and Doug McKenzie's "Twelve Days of Christmas." Because everyone deserves a beer in a tree.
"Step into Christmas," Elton John
The one by Band Aid. Transports me to high school every time.
Bruce Springsteen, "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town"
Paul McCartney, "Wonderful Christmas Time"
John Lennon, "So This is Christmas"
Adam Sandler, "The Hanukkah Song"
Anything by Diana Krall. And I LURVE the Charlie Brown Christmas. But only half of it.
186. leah said:
i have to echo the jingle cats sentiment. that's a quirky family tradition i've loved since i was a fourth-grader. i'm sure by now (15-ish years later) my parents would love to retire the album, but secretly they love it just as much as my brother and i do. :) the music is actually pretty good, even if you don't dig the meowing.
seriously . . . jingle cats- meowy christmas. you'll thank us later.
187. EmilyG said:
I have to say my favorites as a kid were the Holiday Singalong with Mitch Miller and even nuttier, Once Upon a Christmas by Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. I still like them now, sometimes you just need cheesy holiday music!
p.s.-does Leta have the Free to Be, You and Me cd yet? I hope so!
188. Erinn said:
I am 31 years old and to this day, the album I treasure the most from my childhood is "John Denver & The Muppets - A Christmas Together." I cannot remember a Christmas where my mother was not playing that record as we put up the tree. I would sit in the dark looking at the lit tree and listen to the album. Of course, nowadays I have switched to the ipod version...(although I sometimes miss the vinyl scratchy sound). You should have this for Christmas. For sure.
189. Linny said:
A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector is the BEST Christmas album ever. And let's face it, Phil Spector is more than a little nutty...
190. Stacy said:
I vote for Acid Christmas. Similar to what you were saying, remixes of the classics, but its really fun. We bought it way back in college so I'm not even sure where to find it, but if you do I'd definitely get it.
191. Cindy said:
Josh Groban, Mannheim Steamroller, and one weird corny old-fashioned one!
192. erin6464 said:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ue2Cvr8p-3k
Gayla Peevey
I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas
193. Jewels said:
Boney M. nothing like the 1978 song "Mary's Boy Child" to shake your groove thang too.
194. Jewels said:
Boney M. nothing like the 1978 song "Mary's Boy Child" to shake your groove thang too.
195. nikwit said:
My favorites growing up were my Mom's Barbara Streisand Christmas album (amazing jazzed-up renditions of "Jingle Bells," "My Favorite Things," and my personal favorite "I Wonder as I Wander") and her Julie Andrews Christmas Album (also amazing if a little more traditional-sounding!)! I think both are from the '70's. Maybe you could find them on e-bay? I actually made tape recordings of those so I could have them with me after I left home. Now I don't have a functioning tape player so those tapes are just sitting around deteriorating.
Just fair warning, some folks may have an adverse reaction to Barbara Streisand singing Christmas songs, like one of my Catholic friends - "Why is SHE singing Christmas songs? She's Jewish!" I'd never thought of that before, because, well, being Unitarian lots of people could ask the same question of me. Hey, if you're going to have the majority religion and make everyone celebrate it, guess what, everyone's going to celebrate it for what it may mean to them, not necessarily what it means to you. Deal with it. Still the best Christmas album I ever ever listened to. Sung by a Jewish lady. Yeah!!
196. Jen said:
Another vote for the Phil Spector Christmas album. It used to be really hard to find, but I think that may have been before the internet happened.
Not only is this album fun and interesting and ballsy, but it manages to not seem to contrived or packaged, I think because it is a bit nutty in parts. It's a hit!
197. anna said:
A Very Special Xmas from MTV features many 80s stars. I also like the single, "Do They Know It's Christmas?" by Band Aid. Gotta love Duran Duran.
198. Pearl said:
moe. >> seasons greetings from moe.
Linus and Lucy
We're a couple of misfits
the worlds best!! Carol of the bells
and a few originals
Check it out at moe.org
199. Robert Boner said:
Why waste money on a Christmas CD that you will listen to once a year?
Turn on DirecTV and go to the holiday channel and listen to the crap they play.
200. Linda_M said:
John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together
201. joanie said:
I'm going to have to recommend the new Bela Fleck and the Flecktones Christmas album. It just came out this year and is all classic songs but in awesome arrangements. It even has a version of Linus and Lucy that won't make you cry. The review that sold me on it compared Victor Wooten to "Santa Clause on bass" and really, can you say no to that?
202. Anonymous said:
Hanson! I think the album is called "Snowed In"
203. samantha said:
Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful Christmas" is great.
Also, we like "Swingin' Christmas Party" which has some Eartha Kitt and Glenn Miller Orchestra on it.
Sarah MacLachlan's Wintersongs is beautiful. And ditto for Sufjan Stevens.
204. Jennifer K. said:
Squirrel Nut Zippers
"Christmas Caravan"
Funky, nutty and singable too!
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=294009170...
205. Jamie said:
Hands down, my favorite holiday CD EVER is Ella Fitzgerald's "Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas!" It's got super catchy versions of all the classics and is easy to sing along to (which I do, loudly). Plus, it's Ella, so it's beautiful.
If you're feeling grinchy, check out Miles Davis' "Blue Xmas." It's sung by Bob Dorough (of School House Rock fame) and it's the bitterest, saltiest, most cynical holiday song ever.
206. I_Tego_Arcana_Dei said:
Yo! I recently discovered your blog, and have gone and read like a years worth of back entries, and this is my first post here, so thanks for all you do!
This is the first time I've ever disagreed with you, I LOVE the Charlie Brown Christmas album. But to each thier own, I've seen his name pop up in the comments a lot already, but I'm gonna re-reccomend Sufjan Steven's Christmas album, actually, I'm gonna reccomend ALL of Sufjan's albums.
207. Anne said:
Some punk xmas songs are always great.
Try also:
Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers, "Once Upon a Christmas" is fantastic!!
"Soulful Christmas"
"Oldies for a Cool Christmas"
"Oldies But Goodies Rockin' Christmas"
208. lea said:
You definitely need grandma got runover by a reindeer. It's a kooky classic!
209. korinthe said:
Jonathan Coulton's "Merry Christmas from Chiron Beta Prime"
http://www.jonathancoulton.com/mp3/Chiron%20Beta%20Prime.mp3
And another vote for John Denver & The Muppets.
210. macduff said:
The Carpenter Family Christmas! The Carpenter Family Christmas! First of all, it's camp as all hell. And second of all, after Leta has formed her affection for the Carpenters, you can use them as a PSA for healthy eating. "Remember how much we loved Karen Carpenter every Christmas? Well, if she had eaten her peas, she would still be here."
211. Beth said:
I know I'm not the first to say it, but I cannot stress it enough:
JOHN DENVER & THE MUPPETS: A CHRISTMAS TOGETHER!
Everyone I know who grew up with this album still considers it their favorite Christmas album. It is the album I play when I decorate my tree every year. You must get this for Leta and baby numero dos!!!
212. kate said:
John Denver and the Muppets have a great album - a good mix of nice "traditional" songs plus Piggy and Gonzo singing about the goose getting fat.
213. Tamara said:
A Sesame Street Christmas - the original vinyl is my favorite Christmas record. There is a CD version but it's missing a few of the songs. The Christmas Pageant and A Christmas Story get me every time.
214. Lisa C. said:
I like the soundtrack to the movie Elf and it has "Baby It's Cold Outside".
215. Kerri said:
How about Three Tenors singing Feliz Navidad?
Nothing puts me in the Christmas mood quite the same....
216. Melissa said:
Not an album- but my favorite song this year is Winter Song by Sarah Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson. You can listen to it and watch the ADORABLE video here: http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20244199,00.html#
217. Tracie said:
Diane Ziegler "December in Vermont" http://www.dianezeigler.com/cd.htm
Beautiful, simple, original interpretations of carols that make you realize what the songs were about.
218. Dahnks said:
Totally not nutty but amazing music: The Hotel Cafe Presents Winter Songs, my favorite song is called Winter Song by Sara Bareilles & Ingrid Michaelson. The album is by various artist singing winter or holiday songs. Other artists on the album include Brandi Carlile, Lenka, Fiona Apple, Katy Perry, Priscilla Ahn and more. Hope you enjoy it as much as I am!
219. Anonymous said:
BONEY M CHRISTMAS - so badddd but soooooo good :)
220. Marieke McArthur said:
Go with something you might actually like to listen to - Ella Fitzgerlad.
221. lauren said:
I was raised on James Brown's Funky Christmas. It is a serious soul Christmas classic that's great for dancing. I don't know if there is a better Christmas song than "Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto". Seriously. Great song, great message.
Also, 'A Christmas Gift For You from Phil Spector' contains the original versions of the classics "Marshmallow World" and "Christmas, Baby Please Come Home".
222. hollygee said:
I quite like the Gypsy Hombre's Django Bells:
http://www.amazon.com/Django-Bells-Gypsy-Hombres/dp/B00006HIAF
223. kate said:
oh, and you didn't ask, but Emmit Otter's Jugband Christmas is the best Christmas movie that Leta can't miss.
224. Peg said:
I recommend "Christmas with the Vandals: Oi to the World." It may not be entirely kid-appropriate (with song titles like "Christmas Time for My Penis" and "Hang Myself from the Tree") but it's ridiculously funny, as only the Vandals can do. And it has the fastest instrumental cover of "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies" EVER.
http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Vandals-Oi-World/dp/B000005BO4
225. Beth said:
Sufjan IS great, I haven't heard John Denver and the Muppets, but in my imagination, it is great, man, some of y'all busted out NKOTB...talk about nutty (the people who own it, not the music itself), but for my money - Barbara Streisand. Her Christmas album is meant to be serious, but it turns out to be nutty because it invites you to put on your best Babs impression and belt out the classics as though you really can sing. And THAT is an invitation you just can't refuse.
226. Jason said:
I've been listening to:
"Let It Snow Baby... Let It Reindeer" by Relient K
"Snow" by Go Fish
"Twisted Christmas" by Bob Rivers
and of course there's a bunch of great Christmas stuff by Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
227. Joanna said:
What does it mean that I haven't heard most of these, but I still have a few dozen crappy Xmas CDs? My mother played Handel's Messiah until we had the whole thing memorized, but when I was a kid I loved the short opera Amahl and the Night Visitors, by Carlo Menotti. It was broadcast on TV ages ago, and my daughter also loved it when she was a little bit older than Leta. It tells the story of the Magi from a kid's point of view in English.
228. katie7487 said:
oh you DEFINITELY need to get the BING CROSBY cd and ANDY WILLIAMS cd. they are classics and i could not have christmas without them!!!
i also love me some manheim steamroller.
229. Soyviz said:
Mr. Hankey's Christmas Classics from South Park. Not suitable for children but hilarious and oddly moving.
230. Angie said:
Another vote for Sufjan!
231. James said:
I'll second the Sufjan Stevens Christmas collection. A lot of it is very reverential, a lot is just silly and kooky.
But for pure kookiness, it's hard to beat the soundtrack to "A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All". Not all of it is child-appropriate (I'm looking at you, Willie Nelson), but for some reason I don't think that will always be an issue in the Armstrong household...
I'd also recommend the Christmas album from a Canadian institution: Stuart McLean's Vinyl Cafe. McLean's program is a blend of music and stories, and his annual Christmas tour across the country is one of my favourite things in the world. I actually attended it last night, bringing along my girlfriend to introduce her to another part of my world. Check out the Vinyl Cafe Christmas story "Dave Cooks a Turkey" and spend your holiday season laughing.
232. darlene said:
so not christmas without a little boney m :) and anything with the muppets makes me giddy ...
233. Sonja said:
For me, I listen to the radio. It's a good enough mix of classics and modern stuff for me without getting too weird. I tried for a while to be into jazzy Christmas music and blues Christmas music, etc., but when it comes down to it, I just want regular Christmas music. If you have Sirius XM, they've got a good (for me) Christmas music channel - 81.
234. 12ontheinside said:
There's always the old classic "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer"?
Or for naughty carols (for after your daughter goes to bed) I get a laugh out of Tom Lehrer's christmas songs.
235. Kristy said:
You want nutty, I got nutty!
The BEST nutty Christmas song ever is Mel Blanc's "Yah Das Ist Ein Christmas Tree." I don't know where it's from or what the story is behind it, but it is HILARIOUS and wacky and fun and kid-friendly and charming. And it's Mel Blanc - how can you go wrong?
(And note: for the person recommending Diana Krall, good lord. She is amazing, but if the Vince Guaraldi CD made you sad, this will want to make you slit your wrists. In a beautiful and melancholy way, sure. But still - wrist-slitting isn't very merry.)
If you want jazzy holiday music that won't rip your heart out, try Dave Brubeck's album. It's all just lovely piano.
236. Mindy Joss said:
Hey Heather....
Best and nuttiest Christmas Album is Christmas Turkey from the Arrogant Worms.
You can find it on iTunes....
You'll love it!
237. Trina said:
I would recommend that every parent of young children download the song "Toy Packaging" by Sara Groves from her O Holy Night CD. I love the following line:
"Every adhesive known to man
is holding down this Robot man
my self-esteem is in the can
toy packaging"
The rest of the lyrics are here: www.saragroves.com/store/oholynight/lyrics/toypackaging/.
Although I think that you hold a different world view, I think that I might also relate to another parenting song that she's written called "A Lot Like Me" from her project called Station Wagon: www.saragroves.com/store/stationwagon/lyrics/alotlikeme/.
238. ItaGena said:
One of my very favorite Christmas memories as a child was listening to the Muppets Christmas Album. Jim Henson did a wondeful job of taking many Christmas classics and having his lovable, and a bit neurotic, creatures re-create them. I can still hear Ms. Piggy in my ears belting out "Five Goldnen Rings!!!!". What's not to love? I still have my album(it's right next to Thriller in the album library, ha) and fully intend on playing it when I have children one day. Hope this helps!
239. Angie said:
1. Echoing the vote for Mitch Miller!!
2. Mr. Hankey's Holiday Classics always gets me in the holiday spirit (although it needs to be limited to the grownups - Lord knows what lyric bastardization would come out of Leta's mouth at a festive holiday sing-along).
3. I also have a Looney Tunes holiday album, the title of which escapes me; Porky Pig stammering through carols is pretty amusing.
240. Shannon said:
RAFFI! Raffi is our favourite and has been since we were kids.
241. Natalie A. said:
Another vote for the John Denver and the Muppets album. Some absurd but fun songs, some that are gentler and oh-so-sweet, all songs that any child should hear and will remember. This left such an impression on my young brain, that anytime anyone bashes Christmas, I think "But there's that Muppets album!" Also, good choice with Petunia's Christmas recently - I read that one as a kid too, and loved it. Another fabulous one, especially if your daughter likes cats and/ or you have them is Mog's Christmas. It's the darling tale of a classic skittish, slightly grumpy, freaked out cat and her people, and does a spot-on job of highlighting the weirdness of the holiday, especially from an animal's point of view. Enjoy!
242. Anonymous said:
One of my favorites is The Ventures' Christmas Album, but then again, I love A Charlie Brown Christmas, too.
243. Lyndsay said:
44. Ali, I'm with you. Barenaked Ladies Christmas is fun and kooky for sure! That's definitely my vote! :)
244. megchem said:
Harry Connick Jr. The album that has the song "santa clause"!!!
245. Kris said:
I second/third/infinity the vote for Pandora. Bing Crosby's "White Christmas" + Wham's "Last Christmas" = Perfect Christmas Mix. Free! And if you hate a song, you can thumbs down it and never hear it again.
246. Bridget said:
For nutty you can't go wrong with Jingle Dogs, an album of dogs barking Christmas carols. Just for nice is the Emmylou Harris albun A Light in the Stable and I just bought a John Fahey Christmas album called the New Possibility.
247. Scottie said:
pandora.com has holiday stations for every mood. no library of music required. i had it on all day yesterday as i decorated. 'swinging christmas' is very nice and peppy for that last hour of baking or ornament throwing.
248. Andrea said:
Yo Yo Ma and Friends...you can buy it at Starbucks and it is awesome. Diana Krall and James Taylor are on the cd among a ton of other great artists.
249. Rev Dr Mom said:
John Denver and the Muppets Christmas album.
And an old Bing Crosby or Frank Sinatra Christmas album.
Seriously.
I haven't heard but one song from it yet, but Aretha Franklin has a new Christmas CD.
250. Jim said:
If you think "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is depressing, stay 100 feet away from Sufjan. It's beautiful in the "frost's got nothing on my cold, cold heart" sort of way. (That said, buy his "Sister Winter.")
Loretta Lynn's Christmas album is awesome. You've never heard "Silver Bells" until it's been dipped in southern twang.
251. Rachel said:
Not overly "nutty," but I am a big fan of the Barenaked Ladies Christmas album.
"Polar Express" will make you want to kill yourself. I worked at Borders the year it came out and we listened to nothing but that for three months. But I guess it's nice in a smaller dose.
Brian Setzer Orchestra also has a Christmas album out that is fun.
But whatever you do, don't listen to "Christmas Eve in Washington" by Maura Sullivan. Worst. Song. EVER.
252. Narami said:
I couldn't read through all 209 comments to know if someone suggested this before (how will you do it, I have no idea) but A Twisted Christmas from Twisted Sister. It's PERFECT. And will have Leta singing "on my heavy metal Christmas my true love gave to me, a tattoo of Ozzy!". (All other songs have the traditional lyrics, don't fear.)
http://www.amazon.com/Twisted-Christmas-Sister/dp/B000ICLTKK/ref=pd_bbs_...
253. Michelle from L.A. said:
I have 6+ hours of Christmas music on my iTunes. This is what I have: Pottery Barn Hip Holidays Volumes 1-3 (highly recommend, if you get this it pretty much lasts thru the holidays and you won't need anything else. Jazzy, loungey); select 80s songs from iTunes including the Bruce Springsteen "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," Band Aid "Do They Know it's Christmas," Wham "Last Christmas," and "Christmas Wrapping" by The Waitresses; Harry Connick album When My Heart Finds Christmas, the Boyz II Men Christmas album, Adam Sandler Chanukah Song, that one Alvin and the Chipmunks, and the N*Sync Christmas album (just for kicks).
And I have my eye on the Vh1 Big 80's Christmas.
254. Amanda said:
Muppets Christmas Album. Nuff Said
255. Emily said:
I have a John Denver and the Muppets Christmas album that I loved as a kid, and a couple years ago, my mom found it on CD and gave it to me. I love that CD, and now my kids love it, too. It's definitely in the kooky category, but so fun.
256. Melissa said:
Squirrel Nut Zippers - dont like xmas tunes, so this is the only one i dare own
257. Gretch-a-sketch said:
The Hotel Cafe Tour Presents: Christmas Songs is really quite awesome and Bing Crosby is a must at our house. There are, like, thousands of his Christmas albums out there, so just pick any one and you should be good to go. Also, the soundtrack for Elf is very good and not too overtly Christmas-y, even if the old guy singing with Zooey on Baby, It's Cold Outside sounds way too creepily old to be singing that song to anyone.
258. Mylene said:
Oooh! The Runaway Christmas Tree by Christine Lavin and the Mistletones: http://www.amazon.com/Runaway-Christmas-Christine-Lavin-Mistletones/dp/B...
How can you go wrong with Tacobel Canon? AND there's a story entitled Polkadot Pancakes!
259. Kathryn said:
we can't ever find all of what we like (or agree on) on one album so started making our own a few years ago and "release" a new one every year
peronal faves: The Pogues' Fairy Tale of New York, Meryn Cadell's The Cat Carol, Run DMC's Christmas in Hollis and of course the Royal Guardsmen Snoopy vs the Red Barron
260. trashalou said:
Can't help you with a whole album full but if you can find the Russell Coight version of 'Six White Boomers' I guarantee you a good laugh :-)
261. Krista said:
I second James Brown's Funky Christmas and add Blue Yule. The latter has tunes by Louis Jordan, John Lee Hooker, and Lightening Hopkins. Terrific stuff.
262. Anonymous said:
John Denver and the Muppets... BRILLIANT! If you are looking for a fun holiday movie, Muppets Christmas Carol is a classic!
263. Valerie said:
"A Christmas Together" by John Denver and the Muppets.
Every Christmas my family gets together to sing "Twelve Days of Christmas" as done by Mr. Denver and the Muppets. It's a humiliating experience (my very Hispanic grandmother impersonating Miss Piggy is a moment I will never forget) and makes me dread bringing boyfriends home for Christmas, but it wouldn't be Christmas without it.
264. Malisams said:
1. Any of the Suburban Sprawl Music Christmas compilations, which are free! (2007's is the best -- definitely listen to "Happy New Year" by Love Axe...creeeepyyyy)
http://www.suburbansprawlmusic.com/xmas/
2. Mindy Smith's "My Holiday" album
3. The Nutcracker Suite!
4. Also, I'm not sure it gets any cheesier (in the most awesome way) than the soundtrack to Dolly Parton's 1986 Christmas movie "Smoky Mountain Christmas."
5. Finally, anything including The Muppets. :)
265. judi said:
i think a lot of the pop xmas albums can be fun and maybe a little nutty? i really like "maybe this christmas" and "maybe this christmas, too" is ok.
266. Shelli said:
If you're into nutty, try one of Bob Rivers' Twisted Christmas albums. They're parodies of things related to the holiday season set to familiar Christmas tunes. Also, my boyfriend and I recently came into possession of a compilation album called "We Wish You a Metal Christmas and a Headbangin' New Year". It's pretty awesome and other than the fact that it's quite loud and, you know, metal, appropriate for all ages.
267. Yogoer said:
"A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector" for Motown greats...
Or, the family curse: "Rudolph's Christmas Party." Don't blame me if Leta gets addicted.
268. Jeanna said:
I grew up listening to The Supreme's Christmas record and listen to it every year! Rock it out!
Or you could go with The Waitresses...
Cheech & Chong's Christmas album? It's jolly!
269. Danielle said:
Dr. Demento's Christmas Album. It's mentioned in another comment, but I figured if someone else recommends it, then it must be good.
Anyway, a couple songs may be a little over Leta's head, but a lot of them are funny, kooky, and as you requested, NUTTY. It's got Alvin and the Chipmunks, Weird Al, and couple other crazy stuff. It's what I grew up listening to when my mom wasn't blaring Christmas music box CDs. Music boxes. On CDs. Little twinkly bombarding needles of Christmas joy.
Keep writing Heather!
270. Toni said:
Kissin' Christmas by Bobby Vinton.
And of course, A South Park Christmas, but that isn't suitable for child ears. :)
271. Anonymous said:
Another vote for Boney M!
272. Spring said:
Sufjan Stevens' Songs for Christmas.
Am listening to it now. Have since Halloween. And oftentimes throughout the year I'll find myself wishing that it were Christmastime so I could listen to the album without feeling weird (I still do sometimes because IT IS WORTH THE WEIRDNESS).
Lovely. You MUST get it.
273. Becky said:
'The Edge of Christmas'. (has Bing Crosby and David Bowie singing Drummer Boy)
All the 'Very Special Christmas' albums. There are 5 last I counted.
At least those are my favorites.
274. Annie said:
Well I thought I'd be the first to say it. Although now that I really think about it, of COURSE I wasn't going to be the first...
Sufjan Stevens!!!
It's a must. And it will most certainly change your life.
275. djm said:
Klezmer Christmas - "Oy to the World".
Need I say more?
http://www.oytotheworld.com/
276. Kris K said:
The Jackson 5 Christmas Album.
We still own the vinyl copy, and my sister and I cannot go a season without listening to it. It is a classic from the days when Michael was black, and Jermaine wasn't pimping himself out for cash. And every single one had their original nose.
You also have to get Johnny Mathis, and Bing Crosby, and Dean Martin.
The one thing you should stay away from is Manheim Steamroller. It makes me want to shove cocktail picks in my eyes.
277. Kelli said:
Sorry if this was mentioned (can't bear to read all 250+ comments), I worked in retail and was subjected to EVERY version of EVERY Christmas song. Ever. And amazingly, I found Rosie O'Donnell to have some of the funniest songs. She sings classics with a lot of popular groups. "Nuttin for Christmas" with Smash Mouth is pretty great.
278. Katie said:
We don't actually own this album from childhood, but it was a Wayne Newton christmas album. I have a feeling if someone put it on I'd suddenly have the taste of M&Ms like they used to taste when I was little in my mouth and then I'd feel all happy inside. Perhaps I should go looking...
279. Sarah said:
I have to say John Denver & the Muppets too. I once heard their version of "12 days of Christmas" while in my car. I was singing along happily & arrived at my destination. I kept the car on & kept singing until the song was over. Later I checked my voicemail & I had accidently called myself and left a message of me belting it out. Miss Piggy "FIVE GOOOOLLLLDDD RINGS!" style. I was so thankful that I called myself and not anyone else I knew.
And as a treat to yourselves, watch the original Muppet Movie with Leta. That movie works, and is a gem, on so many levels. They don't make kids movies like that anymore.
280. Mers said:
I have to third the suggestions for Bob Rivers' Christmas songs. Definitely nutty. If you're feeling anti-chipmunks, "Chipmunks roasting on an open fire" is a good place to start.
281. Angela said:
Wait a minute. In defense of A Charlie Brown Christmas, it is a very lovely jazz type CD if you can mentally dissociate yourself from the plot line of the cartoon. When I think of A Charlie Brown Christmas (THE MUSIC), I think of retro Christmas with cool cats playing piano while beautiful couples dance late into the night wearing their party best with festive santa hats.
Nevertheless, I see the suggestions of Mannheim Steamroller, and raise them one Time-Life Music: Treasury of Christmas - Holiday Memories. All the classics. All the awesome.
282. Jim said:
Not "zany" per se, but Brian Setzer's "Boogie Woogie Christmas" is great.
283. Erin said:
I know I'm repeating, but I don't care. :)
Hotel Cafe's "Winter Songs" is on repeat in both house and car this year--I LOVE those ladies.
The OC Xmas album is actually really good. (Seriously.)
"A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector" is awesome.
The Elf soundtrack is also great.
The Ultra Lounge Christmas Cocktails series is fantastic.
AND, when it comes to individual songs, Adam Sandler's "Hanukkah Song" (both 1 and 2) are just too great. (I'm also partial to "Merry Fuc*ing Xmas" from South Park, too.)
284. David Gannon said:
Hi Heather. I have 124 Holiday/Christmas albums (digital) if you need something to mix it up. Happy Holidays
285. Kristina said:
I forgot specific songs that are key:
Zooey Deschanel and some old guy singing "Baby's It's Cold Outside" - if you've heard her sing that song in Elf, yeah, she's amazing and sigh. Not fair.
Macy Gray singing "Winter Wonderland" is pretty amazing as well.
That's all.
286. Priscilla said:
Johnny Cash Country Christmas ASIN: B000GFLJDQ
It's weird, wacky, and borderline Obnoxious Beyond Compare. If nothing else, download the track "Figgy Pudding." You won't regret it.
287. Retster said:
Best Xmas album ever - Temptations, Give Love at Christmas. Best version of Little Drummer Boy I've ever heard. Seriously.
288. JLG said:
http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Songs-Various-Artists/dp/B00005177I/ref=...
The Cat Carol makes me cry every damn time! Polly Anderson's Christmas Party is a good laugh.
289. Anonymous said:
The Roger Whittaker Christmas Album is a favorite in our family.
290. Erin said:
Oh God! I almost forgot! Thanks to #277 (Kelli) for reminding me to mention the Rosie albums, which are awesome indeed.
291. Linda said:
Definitely check out the Squirrel Nut Zippers.
Winter Wonderland, by Lavay Smith & Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers...just for that name!
Boogie Woogie Santa Claus, by Lionel Hampton and his Orchestra
Dig That Crazy Santa Claus, by Ralph Marterie
292. Jenn said:
I don't care what you think of me............
Mariah Carey's Christmas Album is my fav. Yes, I said it.
293. Anonymous said:
I often find the sublimely offbeat from WFMU.. if you go to their blog at http://blog.wfmu.org/freeform/ then search for "Christmas" you'll find a long list of recommendations (and often downloadable MP3s) of awesomely bizarre holiday tunes.
294. Anonymous said:
Can't read all the comments, so it's probably been suggested, but my kids (and I) love the Barenaked Ladies: Barenaked for the Holidays (also include a couple of awesome Hanukkah songs).
I know John Denver and the Muppets has been suggested numerous times and there's a reason: it's awesome!
295. Jenn Searls said:
Barenaked Ladies for the Holidays - hands down one of our favorite holiday albums.
296. Sheryl said:
John Denver & The Muppets - A Christmas Together. You'll be surprised at how much you love it.
297. Kristina said:
And then I read more closely. If you want nutty, try to get your hands on German kids' choirs singing American xmas songs. For real, unending entertainment. But Sesame Street still rocks it.
298. Jen A. said:
You can always download the New Kids on the Block's Christmas album, FUNKY FUNKY CHRISTMAS. Because if owning that doesn't make someone think you're a bit nuts, I don't know what will!
If you want something softer to play when it's late and time to be QUIET and not all jumping around and skreeching about how Grandma got run over -- by a REINDEER! -- then might I suggest Jewel's Christmas album, Joy. It's very pretty.
299. Mike said:
Well it's not really nutty but the song that I think sums up Christmas in all it's horror and glory is Fairytale of New York by The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=1BHLEjxjj2c&feature=related
300. Pat said:
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by the BareNaked Ladies is so fun and catchy. It is my new favoriate holiday song.
Runner up- Rockin' around the X-mas tree