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

The Christmas SongElla Fitzgerald

The Christmas Song

This song is arguably one of the most famous jazz Christmas numbers.

Written in 1944 by singer Mel Tormé with Bob Wells, its lyrics seem to capture everything about Christmas.

It’s said that the two came up with it on a hot summer day, imagining Christmas to help them cool off.

It’s pretty stylish that such a playful idea became a classic, isn’t it? This song has been recorded by many renowned singers—most notably Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole—so be sure to compare different versions.

Have Yourself A Merry Little ChristmasSamara Joy

Samara Joy – Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas (Visualizer)

Here is a song featured in the musical film “Meet Me in St.

Louis.” As a jazz standard, it’s a well-known Christmas song, and its beautiful melody is especially captivating.

Sung by a family preparing to move because of the father’s job, the song expresses hope for the future while carrying a poignant sadness that’s hard to sum up in a single word.

Many jazz singers have recorded it, so try comparing different versions to find your favorite.

Samara Joy delivers a brilliant take in a lively 3/4 time, transforming a tune often performed as a ballad.

A Christmas DreamKitty LaRoar

A Christmas Dream

If you want to create a romantic atmosphere, “A Christmas Dream” is perfect, too.

It’s a collaboration between British jazz singer Kitty La Roar and pianist Nick Shankland, featured on their Christmas song collection album, Christmas Dream.

Set to beautiful piano tones, the song paints a picture of Christmastime in London, and in a word, it exudes elegance.

Silver BellsTony Bennett

Tony Bennett – Silver Bells (from A Swingin’ Christmas)

When the Christmas season draws near, the atmosphere of the city seems to change and come alive, doesn’t it? A perfect song for this time of year would be this number sung by Tony Bennett.

It’s included on his 2008 album “A Swingin’ Christmas,” featuring a collaboration with the Count Basie Big Band.

The powerful sound of the big band and Bennett’s warm vocals blend beautifully, painting an urban yet heartwarming Christmas scene.

Nominated at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards, this work is recommended not only for jazz lovers but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a calm, relaxing Christmas.

Why not play it as background music for those special moments with someone dear to you?

Warm DecemberJulie London

Warm December (Remastered 1992)

Julie London, a jazz vocalist from the United States who also found success as an actress.

She began her acting career in 1944 at the age of 19, and, with show-business parents, she appeared in well-known films such as The Red House, Tap Roots, and Task Force.

One of her classic Christmas songs is Warm December.

Its luxurious slow-jazz arrangement makes it perfect as background music for a dinner.

Count Your Blessings Instead of SheepDiana Krall

Count Your Blessings Instead Of Sheep

This song was performed in a film released in 1954 and was written by Irving Berlin.

It’s based on his personal experience: when he was struggling with insomnia, a doctor suggested he try counting the things that made him happy if he couldn’t sleep, and that advice became the inspiration.

It isn’t very well known, but it can be considered one of the great songs.

In the film, Rosemary Clooney sings it.

Diana Krall has great taste for choosing to feature this song, too.

Show Me The MagicJamie Cullum

Show Me The Magic

Jamie Cullum is a jazz singer from the UK.

He is highly acclaimed not only as a jazz vocalist but also as a jazz pianist.

He is also academically gifted, having graduated at the top of his class from the University of Reading.

As a commercially successful artist, he was nominated for Best Jazz Vocal Album at the 47th Grammy Awards.

One of his well-known Christmas jazz numbers is “Show Me The Magic,” a high-quality piece that evokes the atmosphere of 1970s jazz.