Christmas without the music? Bah, humbug! Traditional carols and holiday classics are the best part of the season for many music fans. What can better whisk you away to the manger scene long ago to sing along with the herald angels or warm your heart as you’re walking in a winter wonderland?
Music is a celebration. The best of the Christmas collection gives song to the true meanings of the season: love, sacrifice, giving and worship. And there’s nothing better to sing about than Jesus our Lord humbling himself to enter our world long ago so that we can know Him today.
Many Christian artists are lifting their voices for just that reason and creating Christmas collections so you can share the joy. Here’s a list of some new releases and classic favorites. Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Third Day
CHRISTMAS OFFERINGS
Essential Records
The band’s first Christmas album doubles as a continuation of its Offerings series. Nine of the 13 tracks are Christmas classics, including live recordings of “Silent Night” and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” The remaining four are originals, each penned by a different band member.
Todd Agnew and Friends
DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE?
Ardent Records
Todd Agnew spent six months studying the biblical Christmas story in-depth before writing most of this collection of songs. Each is meant to capture a personal perspective of the individuals involved in Christ’s birth, from the innkeeper to the Magi and angels. Todd’s friends who contribute to the project include Vince Lichlyter of Jonah33 and Mike Weave of Big Daddy Weave.
Go Fish
SNOW
GFK Records
The Go Fish guys lend their acappella harmonies to traditional favorites the likes of “Joy to the World” and “The Little Drummer Boy” and originals including “It’s About the Cross.”
WOW CHRISTMAS GREEN
Word Entertainment
Who’s not included in this two-disc collection of Christmas classics? There are 30 participating artists, including Kutless, Relient K, tobyMac, Casting Crowns, Chris Tomlin and Building 429. The David Crowder Band’s “Feliz Navidad” is a highlight.
COME LET US ADORE HIM
Essential Records
Third Day, Jars of Clay, Day of Fire, Krystal Meyers and more contribute to this organically worshipful compilation that blends original and traditional tunes.
HAPPY CHRISTMAS VOLUME FOUR
Tooth & Nail Records
Ready to rock around the Christmas tree? The Tooth & Nail family of artists (plus some special friends) are at your service. Switchfoot, Relient K, Hawk Nelson, Anberlin, Spoken and more contribute classics and originals.
MercyMe
THE CHRISTMAS SESSIONS
INO Records
The platinum-selling band gives its signature pop sound to traditional favorites, including “Little Drummer Boy,” “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” and “Winter Wonderland/White Christmas.” And don’t miss the original “Joseph’s Lullaby.”
Steven Curtis Chapman
ALL I REALLY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS
Sparrow Records
Steven Curtis Chapman has created some classic Christmas albums in the past. He’s at it again on last year’s offering, teaming up with daughter Shaoey, 6, who appears on the CD cover and adds vocals to several tracks. This one’s a collection of traditional favorites and Chapman originals.
Natalie Grant
BELIEVE
Curb Records
Natalie has a lot to be thankful for, including selling more albums than any other female solo artist last year. She celebrated with this big-band tinged Christmas collection. Included are “Silver Bells,” “O Holy Night” and the original “I Believe.”
Relient K
DECK THE HALLS, BRUISE YOUR HAND
Gotee Records
This one’s been out since 2003 when it became an instant classic. Highlights include the rockin’ “Handel’s Messiah (The Hallelujah Chorus),” the worshipful “I Celebrate the Day” and the Chipmunks inspired “Auld Lang Syne.”
GIFT RAP
Cross Movement Records
The Cross Movement crew delivers hip-hop to the holidays. Da T.R.U.T.H., Flame, Cross Movement, J.R. and other emcees drop original rhymes reflecting on Christ and the celebration of His birthday. The CD released in 2004.
ABSOLUTE CHRISTMAS FAVORITES
Fervent Records
This two-disc set released two years ago, but its 25 tracks keep bringing joy to the world. Artists include Inhabited, Todd Agnew, OC Supertones, BarlowGirl, By the Tree and others singing a mixture of traditional favorites and original songs.
