Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas, from classics to hidden gems.
If you want to spend Christmas with a touch of style and long for a happy, romantic holiday, jazz versions of Christmas songs are just what you need.
Many artists have taken on jazz arrangements of well-known Christmas tunes, and quite a few have released them as full Christmas albums.
In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of classic jazz numbers perfect for Christmas listening—even for complete jazz beginners.
From timeless standards to hidden gems, and even artists’ original Christmas songs, enjoy a lineup that includes fresh, new tracks as well.
Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas. From classics to hidden gems (1–10)
The Christmas SongNat King Cole
Nat King Cole, the legendary jazz vocalist whose rich, warm voice is respected around the world.
He released several Christmas songs, but the most famous is The Christmas Song, which we’re introducing today.
It’s played frequently in Japan, so I think everyone has heard it at least once.
Although it’s a globally beloved Christmas song, it was actually written in the middle of summer.
I never would have imagined it was created in summer—what a surprise! (laughs)
Linus And LucyVince Guaraldi Trio
Vince Guaraldi, an artist who made a major impact on the jazz scene as leader of the Vince Guaraldi Trio.
While his reputation as a jazz composer is impeccable, his achievements in popular music are also remarkable—he released two Christmas songs that became worldwide hits.
One of them is Linus and Lucy.
In Japan, it’s known as the theme song for the Peanuts (Snoopy) anime, so some people may not realize it’s actually a Christmas song.
Santa Claus Is Coming To TownMichael Bublé
“Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” is a classic Christmas song that everyone has heard at least once.
However, because it’s played repeatedly all over town during the holiday season, some people may find it a bit underwhelming as music for events like Christmas parties.
In that case, I recommend the jazz arrangement of the same song by Canadian singer Michael Bublé.
The bright sound of the saxophone and Michael Bublé’s cheerful vocals, reflecting his Italian heritage, will lift your spirits and make you want to start dancing!
Christmas Is ComingVince Guaraldi Trio
This is a classic Christmas song by the Vince Guaraldi Trio that brings together Christmas and the globally beloved Peanuts series! Originally produced as the soundtrack for the 1965 TV special A Charlie Brown Christmas, it’s characterized by its lively jazz rhythms and melodic lines.
The bright performance by piano, bass, and drums enhances the joy and anticipation of the holiday season.
The album A Charlie Brown Christmas became a massive hit, selling over five million copies in the United States.
It’s a track that you’ll want to listen to every Christmas season—one that instantly lifts your spirits.
Have Yourself A Merry Little ChristmasFrank Sinatra
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas is a classic originally written as an original song for the 1944 musical film Meet Me in St.
Louis.
It’s widely known as a quintessential Christmas jazz number.
The lyrics sweetly depict spending Christmas with a lover.
Even today, it remains a beloved standard covered by a variety of jazz vocalists and pop artists, but this time I’ve chosen Frank Sinatra’s rendition, which is among the most famous of the many covers.
We Three KingsRamsey Lewis Trio
This song, known in Japanese as “Warera wa Kitarinu,” is a Christmas carol composed in 1857.
It tells the story of the three kings who came to present gifts to Christ at Christmas.
The Ramsey Lewis Trio arranged this somewhat melancholic waltz and added a slightly funky flavor to their performance.
Since it’s played by a trio, the title and the image overlap in a stylish way.
It’s also fun to compare it with the original version, so I highly recommend giving both a listen.
God Rest Ye Merry, GentlemenOscar Peterson
This piece is an old English Christmas carol published in the 18th century.
It’s quite famous, so many of you have probably heard it before.
In Japan, the title is translated as “Yo no Hito Wasuruna.” Oscar Peterson has arranged this well-known tune into a swingin’ jazz performance.
Oscar Peterson has a charming way of transforming any Christmas song as if it were his own.
It’s also interesting to compare his version with the original as performed in churches and similar settings.