The Best Christmas Albums from the 21st Century: A Modern Holiday Playlist
Ho ho ho, music lovers! The jingle bells are ringing, and it's that time of the year again. You know what that means – it's time to dust off your Christmas playlist and fill your holidays with the best modern Christmas albums. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, get comfy, and let's dive into the best Christmas albums of the 21st century. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and best christmas albums modern.
Why Modern Christmas Albums are a Gift
Before we jump into our list, let's talk about why these modern Christmas albums are such a gift. Firstly, they bring a fresh twist to classic holiday tunes, giving old favorites a new lease on life. Secondly, they introduce us to new music and artists who might not typically be on our radar. And lastly, they're just plain fun! There's nothing like cranking up some festive tunes to get you in the holiday spirit.
The Golden Age of Modern Christmas Albums
The 21st century has seen a resurgence in Christmas albums, with artists from all genres releasing their take on holiday classics. From pop to country, rock to R&B, there's a Christmas album out there for everyone. Some of these albums have become modern Christmas classics in their own right, standing shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra.
Our Picks for the Best Christmas Albums of the Modern Era
Alright, enough chit-chat. Let's get down to business. Here are our top picks for the best Christmas albums of the modern era:
1. A Very She & Him Christmas (2011)
Kicking off our list is the indie-folk duo She & Him, consisting of Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward. Their 2011 album, A Very She & Him Christmas, is a charming and whimsical take on classic holiday tunes. With Deschanel's sweet vocals and Ward's vintage-inspired guitar playing, this album is like a cozy fire on a cold winter's night.
2. Christmas (2008) by Michael Bublé
Canadian crooner Michael Bublé has become something of a Christmas institution in recent years, and his 2008 album, simply titled Christmas, is a big part of that. This album features Bublé's signature smooth vocals on a mix of classic and original holiday tunes. It's the perfect soundtrack for your holiday party or a quiet night by the tree.
3. Under the Mistletoe (2011) by Justin Bieber
Yes, you read that right. The Biebs has a Christmas album, and it's actually pretty good! Under the Mistletoe sees Bieber putting his spin on classic holiday tunes, as well as contributing a few originals. It's a fun and festive album that's sure to get your holiday party started.
4. The Killers' Christmas Song (2007)
Alternative rock band The Killers released this festive EP in 2007, featuring their take on a few classic holiday tunes, as well as a few originals. The standout track is their original song "A Great Big Sled," which has become a modern Christmas classic in its own right.
5. A Charlie Brown Christmas (2012) by Vince Guaraldi Trio
While not a modern release, this 2012 reissue of the classic 1965 album is a must-have for any holiday playlist. The Vince Guaraldi Trio's jazz-infused score for the beloved animated TV special is as timeless as it is festive. It's the perfect soundtrack for trimming the tree or wrapping presents.
6. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays** (2008) by NSYNC
Pop fans, rejoice! Boy band phenoms NSYNC reunited (sort of) for this 2008 Christmas album. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays features the band's take on classic holiday tunes, as well as a few originals. It's a fun and nostalgic addition to any modern Christmas playlist.
7. Christmas (2017) by Sia
Australian singer-songwriter Sia released her first Christmas album in 2017, and it's a doozy. Christmas features Sia's signature powerful vocals on a mix of classic holiday tunes and originals. It's a must-have for fans of Sia's unique sound.
Honorable Mentions
We couldn't possibly talk about the best Christmas albums of the modern era without mentioning a few more honorable mentions. Here are a few more albums that deserve a spot on your holiday playlist:
- Mariah Carey's Merry Christmas (1994) – A classic Christmas album from the queen of Christmas herself. - Elvis Presley's Christmas Album (1970) – The King's take on holiday tunes is a must-have for any fan of Elvis or Christmas music. - Wham!'s Last Christmas (1984) – This classic Christmas single from '80s pop duo Wham! is a must-have for any holiday playlist. - Bob Dylan's Christmas in the Heart (2009) – The folk legend's take on holiday tunes is a unique and unexpected addition to any Christmas playlist. - The Beach Boys' Christmas Album (1964) – This classic Christmas album from the surf rock legends is a must-have for fans of their signature sound.
Conclusion: Modern Christmas Albums – The Gift That Keeps on Giving
So there you have it, music lovers – our picks for the best Christmas albums of the modern era. Whether you're looking for classic holiday tunes with a modern twist or something completely unique, these albums are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. So crank up the tunes, put up your tree, and enjoy the best Christmas albums the 21st century has to offer. Happy holidays!
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