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 (31–40)

I’ll Be Home For ChristmasStephen Scott

I’ll Be Home For Christmas

I'll Be Home For ChristmasStephen Scott

The Christmas song “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” released in 1943 by world-renowned jazz vocalist Bing Crosby, is a piece themed around a soldier reminiscing about home at Christmastime.

Since its release by Crosby, it has become a staple Christmas jazz number.

This time, we’re highlighting a version by jazz vocalist Stephen Scott, who received the Young Talent Award from the National Association of Jazz Educators in 1986.

Be sure to compare it with Bing Crosby’s version.

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White ChristmasOscar Peterson

White Christmas

White ChristmasOscar Peterson

Here’s a classic Christmas song arranged by Oscar Peterson into a slow jazz number.

It might not be ideal for parties, but it’s perfect for chilling out at a bar.

The subtle strings are the key—they’re what really seal the Christmas vibe.

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This Holiday SeasonMolly Johnson

This Holiday Season

This Holiday SeasonMolly Johnson

Featured on a holiday EP released in November 2020, this track is a light, swinging jazz number by Canada’s celebrated jazz singer Molly Johnson.

While its bright rhythm stands out, it also captures the multifaceted nature of Christmas, including loneliness and wistfulness.

It’s a piece that shines with the seasoned expressiveness honed over Johnson’s 40-year career—something only an artist so highly regarded in Canada’s music scene can deliver.

Warm yet gently melancholic, it’s a song that even jazz newcomers can enjoy, and it makes a great background soundtrack for time spent with family and friends.

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Christmas WaltzDavid Benoit Trio

David Benoit Trio: Christmas Waltz

Christmas WaltzDavid Benoit Trio

A beautiful vocal perfectly suited to the holy night and a lively waltz rhythm set the celebratory mood.

This track is sure to please everyone! It’s perfect as background music for a Christmas party.

Since it’s a mellow song, it also works well as BGM when you want to create a stylish atmosphere.

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Santa BabyEartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt – Santa Baby

Santa BabyEartha Kitt

This Christmas song is characterized by its cute lyrics asking Santa for luxury items like a car, a yacht, and a ring because she’s been a good girl.

It’s a song that has been covered by many famous female singers, including Madonna and Taylor Swift.

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Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas: from classics to hidden gems (41–50)

Merry Christmas BabyEtta James

Etta James – Merry Christmas Baby

Merry Christmas BabyEtta James

Merry Christmas Baby is known as an R&B jazz number.

Released in 1947, it has been covered by world-renowned artists such as Chuck Berry, Otis Redding, B.

B.

King, and Elvis Presley.

This time, I’ve chosen the version by Etta James, an R&B singer who was active from the 1960s to the 1970s.

Although it’s R&B, it has a very strong jazz element, so it’s also recommended for jazz lovers.

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Santa Claus Is Coming to TownTill Bronner

Till Brönner and The New York Voices – Santa Claus Is Coming To Town

Santa Claus Is Coming to TownTill Bronner

This song has been arranged by many artists and is very famous, but Till Brönner’s version is outstanding! He’s a musician active as a trumpeter, singer, composer, producer, and even a photographer.

You can feel not only a jazz-oriented approach but also elements reminiscent of contemporary pop music and film soundtracks.

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