Merry Christmas Jazz Music to Get You in the Holiday Mood

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with some festive jazz music? Here are some of our favorite tracks to get you feeling merry and bright.

Introduction

Looking for some merry Christmas jazz music to get you in the holiday mood? Here are some of our favorites, from classic standards to more modern tunes. Whether you’re looking for something to relax to or something to get you moving, we’ve got you covered. So turn on your favorite holiday playlist and enjoy!

The Best Jazz Christmas Albums of All Time

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with some great jazz Christmas music? There are so many great albums to choose from, but we’ve compiled a list of the best of the best. Check out our list of the top jazz Christmas albums of all time.

A Charlie Brown Christmas by Vince Guaraldi

This holiday classic by the Vince Guaraldi Trio is one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time, and for good reason. Recorded in 1965, A Charlie Brown Christmas features Guaraldi’s iconic composition “Linus and Lucy” as well as his brilliant reinterpretations of holiday standards like “The Christmas Song” and “O Tannenbaum.” While the album has been released in various formats over the years, the 2012 deluxe edition includes a wealth of previously unreleased material, making it essential listening for any fan of Guaraldi or classic jazz.

Thelonious Monk’s Jazz Christmas by Thelonious Monk

This 1959 holiday classic by the great jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk is a must-have for any jazz fan’s Christmas collection. Featuring some of Monk’s most well-known compositions like “‘Round Midnight” and “Blue Monk,” this delightful album is sure to get you in the holiday mood.

A Jazz Christmas by Dave Brubeck

This is one of the all-time great holiday jazz albums. Pianist Dave Brubeck is joined by his sons on a few tracks, and the result is a classic. Highlights include “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

The Best Jazz Christmas Songs of All Time

“Christmas Time Is Here” by Vince Guaraldi

From the classic 1965 animated special A Charlie Brown Christmas, “Christmas Time Is Here” is one of the most beloved and recognizable holiday songs of all time. Part of what makes the song so special is its distinctively jazzy sound, which was created by famed composer and pianist Vince Guaraldi. Guaraldi was known for his work in the jazz genre, and his unique style helped to make “Christmas Time Is Here” a timeless holiday classic.

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Thelonious Monk

One of the most celebrated and innovative jazz musicians of all time, Thelonious Monk put his own spin on the holiday classic “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” with this lovely solo piano arrangement. Monk’s trademark angular harmonies and off-kilter phrasing give the familiar melody a fresh and unique flavor, while still remaining true to the spirit of the original song. Combined with Monk’s soulful delivery, this is a Christmas song that is sure to bring a smile to your face and get you in the holiday mood.

“Jingle Bells” by Dave Brubeck

Jingle bells, jingle bells,
Jingle all the way;
Oh what fun it is to ride,
In a one-horse open sleigh.
Jingle bells, jingle bells,
Jingle all the way;
Oh what fun it is to ride,
In a one-horse open sleigh.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these three tracks are just a small sample of the great Christmas jazz music that is available. If you’re looking for some holiday tunes to get you in the spirit, be sure to check out these and other great artists. From bossa novas to straight-ahead Jazz, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Merry Christmas!