Christmas Organisation Week 5 - Favourite Christmas Songs

It is almost here, the day we put up the Christmas Tree.  If I'm honest it is probably one of my favourite parts of Christmas.  There is just something so satisfying about it. I light some candles, dim the lights and last but certainly not least, I put on my favourite festive music.  There is nothing else that gets me feeling more festive than going through this ritual every year.

So whether like me you are a lover of Christmas songs, or you hate them with a fiery passion, why not have a look at my list. I might actually introduce you to some songs you didn't know.


A Christmas Cornucopia, Annie Lennox

This isn't actually a single song, it is an entire album.  As a lifelong fan of Annie Lennox, when I heard about this album I knew I had to get it.  It did't disappoint.  Annie takes some beautiful  Christmas Carols and with the addition of her unique vocals, a 30 piece orchestra and African children's Choir creates something wonderful.  For me these songs are amazingly atmospheric, evoking a Christmas time from years gone by.  Listening to this album every year really makes my Christmas sparkle. Particular favourites on the album are Angel from The Realms of Glory and In the Bleak Midwinter.


Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Judy Garland

From the 1944 musical, Meet Me in St. Louis this song is one of my all time favourites.  I am a bit of a soppy bugger, and this song always brings a tear to my eye and a lump in my throat. It is sweet and just a little melancholy at the same time. The more popular Sinatra version is still lovely, but it misses that little bittersweet joy from Judy's version.  Just beautiful.


In Dulci Jubilo, Mike Oldfield

The literal translation of this song is "In Sweetest Rejoicing". It is such a bright, vibrant traditional carol. For me this carol brings to mind the joy and excitement of Christmas. I could almost imagine elfs dancing merrily to this while preparing gifts for children!



Santa Baby, Eartha Kitt

A sumptuous, indulgent gem of a song. Such fun, and very, very cheeky.  Always puts a smile on my face!  This song has been covered many times by the likes of Britney Spears and Madonna.  I think even Miss Piggy has had a go too, regardless though the original is still the best!


Jingle Bell Rock, Bobby Helms

This 1957 classic is so lively and upbeat, I love to have a good boogie to it as I'm putting up the decorations. A total classic, I couldn't imagine Christmas without it!


The Christmas Song, Nat King Cole

A lovely gentle song.  Jam packed full of nostalgia and festivity.  This used to be one of my favourites to sing in the school choir. To me this song is like a big festive wooly jumper.  Comforting and warm.



White Christmas, Bing Crosby

A true classic.  What else is there to add?



Fairytale of New York, the Pogues and Kirsty McColl

I have always loved this one, although I feel it has been somewhat overplayed in recent years.  There is quite simply no other Christmas song like it.  It is poignant, funny and bloody marvellous.  Still makes me smile.


The Little Saint Nick, The Beach Boys

Really cheery and upbeat, another Christmas tree boogie fest!  Plus it is by the Beach Boys, what's not to love?


I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day, Wizzard 

Who wouldn't love this?  It's Roy Wood for goodness sake!  I remember listening to this as a small child and it brings back some great memories and feelings.  Makes me want to cover myself in face paint and glitter.


A Spaceman Came Travelling, Chris De Burgh

I remember this one vividly from my childhood.  I thought it was a terribly odd Christmas song. Very original though.  I do have a soft spot for this one still.



Home For Christmas - Roger Whittaker

This was on an old Christmas LP we had at our house.  Back when I was little it was part of my Christmas ritual and still is.  A lovely gentle, sentimental song.  Sometimes brings a tear to my eye.



Well, I think that is a long enough list.  My own Christmas playlist has 50 songs on it and if I'm sure if I'd shared them all you would probably want to rip out your own eyeballs with a sever case of Christmas overload.  There are plenty I've missed out here, so if you want to share some of your favourites feel free!