Christmas portrait (1978)
The carpenters

From singer/songwriter Whitney Mongé: Thanks to my mother, who loved Karen Carpenter’s voice, I listened to this record every year during the holidays. Her easy-to-listen alto vocal range and incredible musicality with her brother Richard have always been an inspiration to me. The harmonies between the two cannot be underestimated on this album. Some of my favorite tracks on the record include her version of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” and her original song “Merry Christmas Darling.” It’s definitely a throwback, but always my go-to for a good start to the season.

A Motown Christmas (1973)
The Temptations, the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, the Supremes and Smokey Robinson

From Houndmouth frontman Matt Meyers: With a title like this it’s certainly no secret what you get, but what a testament to the times, the artists and the genre as a whole. Every song is soulful and tasteful and makes me feel something.

The preacher’s wife (1996) and Merry Christmas (1994)
Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey, respectively

From singer/songwriter Brittney Spencer: They both feel like my childhood – festive, joyful, spiritual, and full of friends and family who add their own little twist to all the holiday classics. I love Whitney’s “Who Would Imagine a King” and Mariah’s “Miss You Most.” —Brittney Spencer

For Christmas (2021)
Amanda Shires

From singer/songwriter Amanda Shires: This is not your average Christmas album full of recycled Christmas songs. I made this for everyone – those who love the holidays and those who feel a little lost in it. It’s for the people who sit by the fire and still feel goosebumps, for those who love Christmas but can’t ignore the bittersweet aspects that come with it. These songs are full of longing, humor, heartbreak and yes, hope. There are no repeated “jingle bells” here – these are strings and stories that make you feel like snow is falling right into your living room. It’s for those thoughtful moments when you’re staring at the lights, and for those late-night gift-wrapping marathons when you need a little company.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Vince Guaraldi Trio

From actress and singer Rita Wilson: This album is reminiscent of my childhood when all of us kids would sit around and watch the Charlie Brown TV special. I love the slightly melancholic feel of certain songs that feel different to the other Christmas songs you hear on the radio. It was jazz! The album contains classic Christmas songs, new songs and even Beethoven. It comes together beautifully through Vince Guaraldi Trio’s unique and fresh take on what a Christmas album could be.

Socks (2018)
JD McPherson

From singer Maggie Rose: JD is a great artist and songwriter and proves it Sockswhich consists of completely original Christmas melodies. The production makes all of his creations sound like instant classics and rock. I love a good carol record, but JD’s album is refreshing and lively, making it a staple in my holiday party soundtrack.