The Sound of the Season: Michael Bublé's Top Christmas Songs
As the festive period approaches, many music lovers look forward to the timeless classics and modern hits that evoke the spirit of Christmas. Among the most iconic crooners of the modern era, Michael Bublé has carved out a niche for himself as a master of the holiday season. With a string of successful albums and singles under his belt, Bublé's music provides the perfect soundtrack for cozying up by the fire and sipping hot cocoa with loved ones.
Michael Bublé's affinity for Christmas music is not new, with the Canadian singer-songwriter beginning his holiday-themed journey as far back as his 2006 album 'Christmas'. The project, released when Bublé was just 31, proved a shrewd move, spawning several hit singles, including 'It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas' and 'Holly Jolly Christmas'. 1
Over the years, however, Bublé has gone on to refine and expand his holiday repertoire, pushing the boundaries of what's expected from a Christmas album. From swinging takes on 'Jingle Bells' and 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town', to heartfelt renditions of 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' and 'Ave Maria', the artist's discography showcases his dedication to timeless holiday standards.
The Christmas Classics
Some of Bublé's most cherished holiday tracks have become instant classics, with fans looking forward each year to hearing new interpretations of age-old favorites. Take for example 'It's Never Christmas Without You', a poignant ballad that serves as a heartfelt tribute to Michael's wife Luisana Lopilato.
"Michael's songwriting style has a way of tapping into the universal emotions we all share during the holiday season," says long-time collaborator Brian Jackson, a pianist who has worked with Bublé on multiple projects. "He's got this knack for crafting songs that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable, which I think speaks to his success at the very core." 2
Here are some Bublé's top Christmas songs, based on popular reviews from critics, chart performance and overall public reception:
- 'It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas' (2006)
- 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' (2011) - Originally by Mariah Carey
- 'Holly Jolly Christmas' (2006)
- 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town' (2011)
- 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' (2006)
- 'Ave Maria' (2011)
- 'Mistletoe' (2011)
- 'Grown-Up Christmas List' (2011)
- 'Jingle Bells' (2011)
The influence of Bublé's Christmas music can also be seen across the broader pop landscape. His album 'Christmas' has been credited by many artists as a key source of inspiration for tackling their own holiday projects, such as the 2014 release 'Underneath the Tree' by Kelly Clarkson.
Hop to It: Bublé's Fun Christmas Tracks
Bublé's music also boasts a lighter, fun side that fans adore around the holiday season. From the swingin' 'Jingle Bells' to 'Santa Baby', he has proven himself more than happy to tackle the more upbeat, playful aspects of Christmas. His 2011 song 'Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire', a lively reinterpretation of the classic, offers a great example of this.
"Honestly, there's no better time than the holiday season to let loose and have a little fun," says Michael Bublé, discussing his approach to Christmas music. "When I'm recording, I always try to let my hair down a bit and get into the spirit. I believe that music, especially holiday music, should be something that brings people together." 3
Among the fun tracks, some of the other standout songs include:
- 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town' (2011)
- 'Santa Baby' (2011)
- 'The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)' (2011)
- 'Someday at Christmas' (2011)
A New Generation of Holiday Crooners
Bublé's love for Christmas music has also inspired a new generation of holiday crooners, including artists like Josh Groban and Josh Kelley.
"Bublé's influence cannot be overstated," notes Kelley, known for his smooth, soulful voice and holiday hits like 'Baby It's Cold Outside'. "He brought a certain level of elegance and sophistication to the holiday season, which has raised the bar for all of us in this genre."
Groban adds, "Bublé's voice is unmistakable, but it's not just the sound. His passion for the music and his dedication to the art of storytelling really shine through in his performances. He's an outstanding example of a true artist, and a role model that I look up to." 4 , 5
With his signature blend of swing, jazz, and modern pop, Michael Bublé has set a new standard for holiday music, one that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
A Timeless Legacy
As a true champion of classic and modern Christmas songs, Michael Bublé has carved a lasting legacy for himself within the holiday music landscape. Whether you prefer his timeless, classic takes on holiday standards, or the more upbeat fun songs like 'Someday at Christmas', 'Christmas' is an incredible choice to include in your holiday playlist.
References:
- https://www.michaelbuble.com
- https://www.allmusic.com/artist/brian-jackson-mn0000214445
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Bublé
- https://www.joshgroban.com
- https://www.joshkelley.net
