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.
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Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas: from classics to hidden gems (11–20)
It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The YearAndy Williams
As the Christmas season approaches, the atmosphere in the city suddenly changes and comes alive, doesn’t it? Even if you’re not particularly interested in the hustle and bustle of Christmas, many people still find themselves swept up in the mood and feeling a bit festive.
One of the classic songs that always plays during this season is “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Recorded by the great American singer and entertainer Andy Williams, it was included on his first Christmas album, “The Andy Williams Christmas Album,” released in 1963.
Since then, it has become a beloved Christmas standard around the world.
It’s also featured in the Christmas parades at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.
WintertimeNorah Jones
The Christmas song “Wintertime,” with its pop-leaning jazz sound, makes a strong impression.
It’s sung by Norah Jones, a hugely popular vocalist who represents the modern jazz scene.
While rooted in jazz, she’s known for blending a variety of genres such as soul, country, and folk.
That may be influenced by the fact that her father was a world-famous sitar player.
It’s a wonderfully languid track—be sure to give it a listen.
Blue Xmas (To Whom It May Concern)Miles Davis
Trumpeter Miles Davis, who enjoyed tremendous support in the jazz scene.
A key figure who laid the foundations of so-called modern jazz, he produced numerous masterpieces over the years.
Among his works, the piece renowned as a Christmas staple is Blue Xmas (To Whom It May Concern).
It’s an avant-garde modern jazz number with rhythms and melodies that shift nimbly; while it lacks the catchiness of typical Christmas songs, its sophisticated structure and high-level musicianship highlight the piece’s appeal.
Baby, It’s cold outsideElla Fitzgerald & Louis Jordan
The classic song “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” composed by the famous American songwriter Frank Loesser, is one of the most well-known Christmas tunes, featuring heartwarming lyrics themed around a mouse and a wolf.
This time, I’ve chosen the version by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Jordan.
Among jazz Christmas numbers, duets are rare, so if you’re not familiar with it, be sure to check it out.
Christmas in New YorkJosé James
Jose James is an American artist known for blending modern elements like soul, hip-hop, and electro into jazz.
While he often releases inventive tracks that span multiple genres, Christmas in New York is crafted as a genuine slow jazz piece.
Among his works, it’s a very orthodox release, which makes it valuable in its own right.
If you want to spend Christmas relaxing to slow jazz, be sure to check it out.
White ChristmasBing Crosby
Speaking of Bing Crosby, he is an indispensable figure when discussing 20th-century American culture—a multifaceted entertainer who excelled as both a singer and an actor.
Needless to say, Crosby was a top star in both fields, and he is also known as the “King of Christmas Songs” for popularizing and scoring hits with many holiday tunes.
Among his Christmas songs, the quintessential classic White Christmas is one of the most famous.
Remarkably, it held the number one spot on the Billboard chart for 14 consecutive weeks after its release—a truly astounding feat.
If you prefer to spend Christmas in a solemn, reverent atmosphere rather than at a lavish party, be sure to use this song as your background music to welcome a sacred moment.
Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas: from classics to hidden gems (21–30)
Snow fallAhmad Jamal
A Christmas number by a master of jazz piano.
This piece, which depicts gently piling snow, beautifully captures the quiet and beauty of winter.
Included on the album ‘Cross Country Tour: 1958–1961,’ released in January 2000, it highlights Ahmad Jamal’s distinctive minimalist style.
His light touch and delicate phrasing exquisitely convey the elegance of a snowy landscape.
It’s a perfect track for spending a cozy Christmas night indoors.
Recommended for those who want to share a quiet moment with someone special.