As soon as the turkey is finished and the lines start to form for Black Friday sales, the wonderful sounds of Christmas music begin to fill the airwaves. Christmas music is an integral part of the season and each year, hundreds of songs are played to prepare for the holiday. Whether the songs are new or old, all genres are represented and spread the christmas spirit. Here are The Patriot’s top ten selections for your holiday season.

1. Vince Guaraldi Trio – “Christmas Time is Here”

This slow jazz number performed by the Vince Guaraldi Trio accompanies the classic television special, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” It is sung by a group of children and manages to perfectly encapsulate the joy and sentimental feelings that accompany the holidays. It is hard not to get lost in its soothing rhythm and beautiful harmonies. Make sure to gather your loved ones close this holiday season and tell them how much you love them while listening to this essential song.

2. Harry Simeone Chorale – “Little Drummer Boy”

Of all the religious songs written for the season, “Little Drummer Boy” manages to be the most beautiful and reverent with its drum-rolls and vocal harmonies. A backing male hums as drums are added into the mix along with the main female vocalist. The song tells the story of a young boy who goes to see the birth of Jesus but is too poor to offer regal gifts like the wise men. The boy plays his drum as an offering to the newborn king instead. The song reminds listeners of the true meaning of Christmas and encourages everyone to remember that the holiday is rooted in love and compassion rather than materialism.

3. Trans-Siberian Orchestra – “Carol of the Bells”

This high octane song brings a level of intensity to the traditional choral tune. Complete with electric guitar solos, xylophone, and bells, this is the song with the most energy on this list. To light your yule log this season, make sure to play this at obnoxiously loud volumes.  

4. Brenda Lee – “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”

Few songs manage to bring as much joy and happiness as “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Brenda Lee’s vocals, the jangly guitar, and the saxophone solo immediately transport the listener back to 1958 when this song was released. This classic song is infectiously catchy and gives everyone a reason to grab a loved one and dance.

5. Elvis – “Blue Christmas”

No list of the top Christmas music would be complete without featuring at least one song by the king himself, Elvis Presley. This song about sadness of  separation from a loved one over the holiday season is extremely depressing in subject matter. Elvis’ performance accompanied by backing female singers transforms the song into an extremely catchy tune that contrasts the theme it tackles. Christmas is not as “blue” with this classic number.  

6. Bing Crosby – “White Christmas”

This 1954 song showcases the powerful and soothing voice of Bing Crosby. It was featured in the musical film of the same name, “White Christmas.” The song is heartwarming as Crosby sings about wishing for the perfect Christmas for his loved ones and remembering all of the good things that come with the holidays.

7. Andy Williams – “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”

The comforts and excitement surrounding the coming of Christmas are conveyed flawlessly by this essential number. Andy Williams’ soaring voice joyously tells of Christmas traditions and of all the holiday cheer spread around him. The song has an elegant tone that brings glamour to the holiday season.  

8. Thurl Ravenscroft – “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”

Written for the 1966 Christmas special, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” is hilarious and quirky. The deep vocals and funny description of the vile character of Mr. Grinch make the song one of the most listened to of the season each year. This song is so loveable that it doesn’t “Stink, stank, stunk!”

9. Frank Sinatra – “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

This song about letting troubles disappear and getting lost in the happiness of the holidays has been covered countless times by such artists as Judy Garland, Michael Buble, and Carpenters. The definitive version, however, is sung by the one and only Frank Sinatra. His incredible voice is soothing and brings an unparalleled warmth to the song.

10. Jackson 5 – “I Saw Mommy Kissin’ Santa Claus”

This light-hearted song is performed by the Jackson 5 in their distinct style. Young Michael Jackson’s high childish voice gives the song an even greater sense of innocence and purity. It is about a young boy witnessing his mother kissing Santa Claus on Christmas. This song conveys the joys of childhood and the wonder of the season.

Edward Benner is a News Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.