Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas, from classics to hidden gems.

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Pop music writer/editorKEI
A style that keeps updating my favorites while loving mainstream and hit songs. I have experience writing articles for outlets like Utaten. Since I discovered music as a student, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. 2000s J-POP and 2010s K-POP were my youth, and I’m also loosely into jazz and R&B. I enjoy good music across genres with a “good is good” mindset. Thanks to my past work environment (and its influence), I listened to a lot of classic rock and kayōkyoku, which may have broadened my tastes. At RAG MUSIC, I mainly cover K-POP. I focus on reviews that emphasize feelings people can relate to, and on editing aligned with local pride and hit potential. Thank you!

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 (71–80)

It’s ChristmasJamie Cullum

Jamie Cullum – It’s Christmas

It's ChristmasJamie Cullum

Released in November 2020, this track by Jamie Cullum—one of the UK’s leading jazz artists—from his first Christmas album, The Pianoman at Christmas, blends the feel of a classic holiday song with an enticing fusion of jazz and pop.

It celebrates the importance of special moments spent with family and friends.

Recorded at Abbey Road Studios with 57 of the UK’s top musicians, this piece is a must-listen for anyone who wants to connect with their loved ones through the spirit of Christmas.

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The Christmas FeelingPeter Ashland

Peter Hollens – December Song (Lyric Video)

The Christmas FeelingPeter Ashland

This is a cover of a classic Christmas song by Peter Asplund, the Swedish trumpeter and singer-songwriter who is active as a jazz musician.

The exquisite sound will add color to your holy night.

He has also participated as a solo artist in recordings with other artists such as Lisa Ekdahl and Viktoria Tolstoy.

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Away in a MangerKenny Burrell

Away in a Manger

Away in a MangerKenny Burrell

Away in a Manger is known as one of the most popular Christmas carols in the UK.

Although it’s not very familiar in Japan, it has such a long history that the composer is unknown.

This time, I’ve chosen a version arranged by Kenny Burrell.

Kenny Burrell is a renowned American jazz guitarist who specializes in jazz guitar infused with the blues.

He’s a distinctive player, so be sure to check him out!

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Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas: from classics to hidden gems (81–90)

What Child Is This? (Greensleeves)John Coltrane

Ray Charles – What Child Is This

What Child Is This? (Greensleeves)John Coltrane

This song is a Christmas carol also known as “The Friendly Beasts,” sung to one of the oldest English folk melodies that was widely sung in the late 16th century.

John Coltrane is a legendary American modern jazz saxophonist.

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Frosty the SnowmanElla Fitzgerald

Frosty the Snowman

Frosty the SnowmanElla Fitzgerald

Frosty the Snowman, a classic Christmas song composed by Walter “Jack” Rollins and Steve Nelson, has been covered by a variety of renowned jazz vocalists, including Jimmy Durante, Nat King Cole, and Guy Lombardo.

This time, among those illustrious jazz singers, we’ve chosen the especially popular version by Ella Fitzgerald.

Be sure to check it out.

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In conclusion

Even the classic Christmas songs we’re all familiar with take on a whole new charm when jazz artists add their own arrangements.

You can sink into a romantic mood with tender piano and vocals, or keep things merry on the holy night with a lively swing number.

Be sure to add the tracks featured this time to your playlist as your Christmas BGM!