Category: Specials

“All I Want for Christmas Is You” by MARIAH CAREY “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is a modern Christmas classic that was co-written and recorded by Mariah Carey (in 1994). Since then, it has become one of the most popular and enduring Christmas songs of all-time, as you can see by its position on my countdown. Alongside Mariah Carey’s powerful and soulful vocals, the lyrics within express a longing for love and togetherness during the Christmas season. It has consistently topped charts during the holidays, and its popularity…

“Last Christmas” by George Michael “Last Christmas” is a popular Christmas song that was written by the late George Michael of Wham. Released in 1984, the lyrics within tell a tale of heartbreak during the holiday season. Despite the melancholic theme, the song is set to an upbeat and catchy musical arrangement that compliments the lyrics. The accompanying music video portrays Wham members, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley on a skiing trip with their respective girlfriends. It becomes clear that the character of Ridgeley’s girlfriend was previously in a relationship…

“White Christmas” by BING CROSBY “White Christmas” is a festive holiday song that was written by Irving Berlin, and recorded by Bing Crosby (in 1942). Crosby’s version is recognized as the best-selling single of all time, and the song has since become an enduring symbol of the holiday season. The lyrics within express a nostalgic longing to wake up on Christmas morning to a landscape covered in snow. Bing Crosby’s warm and soothing voice, combined with sentimental lyrics and timeless melody, contributes to the song’s enduring popularity. Coming in at…

“The Christmas Song” by NAT KING COLE “The Christmas Song” (commonly subtitled “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”) is a classic Christmas song written by Mel Tormé and Bob Wells. The most famous version (of this festive classic) was recorded by Nat King Cole (in 1946). His smooth and velvety voice, combined with rich orchestration, paint a cozy picture of Christmas traditions and invoke a sense of holiday magic. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Nat King Cole’s version remains a timeless classic that…

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by BRENDA LEE “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” is a festive and upbeat Christmas song (written by Johnny Marks) and recorded by Brenda Lee (in 1958), when she was just 13 years old. Lee’s version features a lively melody that captures the joyful and celebratory atmosphere of the holiday season. The song describes the scene of people coming together, dancing, and having a good time around the Christmas tree. In 1990, this version experienced a big resurgence in popularity after its appearance in the holiday…

“Do They Know It’s Christmas” by BAND-AID “Do They Know It’s Christmas” is a song that was written by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, and was first recorded by the supergroup, Band Aid (in 1984). The purpose of the song was to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia. This unique Christmas tune features vocals from a variety of popular artists, including Boy George, Bono, Sting, Phil Collins, Simon LeBon, George Michael, and many others. The lyrics within address the plight of those suffering from famine, and encourage people to…

“Jingle Bell Rock” by BOBBY HELMS “Jingle Bell Rock” is a popular Christmas song that was written by Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe. The most well-known version of this festive classic belongs to Bobby Helms (who recorded his rendition in 1957). His classic version features a catchy and upbeat melody, making it a festive and lively addition to Christmas playlists everywhere. Coming in at #7 on DJ Ray’s “12 Days Of Xmas” countdown, here’s BOBBY HELMS with “JINGLE BELL ROCK”…

“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by MICHAEL BUBLE “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” is a popular Christmas song that was written by Meredith Willson (and was first recorded in 1951). It has since become a holiday classic. With his smooth and soulful throwback vocals, Michael Bublé’s rendition truly captures the joy and excitement of the season. The lyrics within describe the various festive decorations and activities that make it feel like Christmas is near. Coming in at #8 on DJ Ray’s “12 Days Of…

“Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” by BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” was written by John Frederick Coots and Haven Gillespie, and was first performed on Eddie Cantor’s radio show (in 1934). Since then, it has become a holiday classic. Bruce Springsteen’s live version was recorded at a concert in New York (on December 12th, 1975). His rendition has gained popularity (over the years) for it energetic and dynamic stage presence, along with its playful banter with the audience. Coming in at #9 on DJ Ray’s “12…

“Let It Snow” by DEAN MARTIN “Let It Snow” is a popular Christmas song that was originally written in 1945 (by lyricist Sammy Cahn and composer, Jule Styne). It was written during a heat wave (in California) as the writers imagined cooler conditions. Dean Martin’s version was recorded in 1959 for his album, “A Winter Romance”. Often associated with the holiday season, the lyrics describe a cozy scene by the fireplace with that special someone. Coming in at #10 on DJ Ray’s “12 Days Of Xmas” countdown, here’s DEAN MARTIN…

“Blue Christmas” by ELVIS PRESLEY “Blue Christmas” is a classic Christmas song that was first recorded by Doye O’Dell in 1948. However, it was Elvis Presley’s rendition that became widely known and has since become a holiday favorite. Recorded (in 1957) for his Christmas Album, the lyrics convey a melancholy sadness that can be felt during the holiday season (especially when one is separated from a loved one). Coming in at #11 on DJ Ray’s “12 Days Of Xmas” countdown, here’s the king, ELVIS PRESLEY, with “BLUE CHRISTMAS”…

JOSE FELICIANO with “FELIZ NAVIDAD”… “Feliz Navidad” is a popular Christmas song written by Puerto Rican singer and songwriter, José Feliciano. The song’s title (translated as “Merry Christmas”) was first released in 1970, and has since become a holiday classic. The lyrics within express Feliciano’s wishes for a joyful and festive holiday season. In 2010, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Coming in at #12 on DJ Ray’s “12 Days Of Xmas” countdown, here’s JOSE FELICIANO with “FELIZ NAVIDAD”…

The one thing I don’t really like about Christmas is that it comes and goes so quickly. This got me thinking of ways to stretch out the holiday season, so we can truly enjoy all the festivities…As I was pondering this dilemma, a popular and traditional Christmas song came to mind… Suddenly, I knew what I had to do…Instead of turtle doves and golden rings, I could do a top “12 Days of Xmas” Music Countdown…okay, I guess it doesn’t actually extend the holidays but I’m sure it’ll make the…