This Christmas could be extra special with Ella Fitzgerald’s Christmas album. The iconic jazz singer’s second holiday album is being reissued just in time for the season. Originally released in 1967, this album marked Fitzgerald’s second Christmas LP and her second full-length project with Capitol Records.
Unlike her first Christmas album, 1960’s Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas, which featured jazzy takes on popular holiday songs, this album focuses on sacred music. Teaming up with producer Dave Dexter Jr., conductor Ralph Carmichael, and arrangers Robert Black and Grace Price, Fitzgerald recorded 13 beloved religious classics. Songs like “Silent Night,” “O Holy Night,” and “Joy To the World” are included, making this album a must-have for any holiday music collection.
The recording sessions took place over two days in the summer of 1967, giving it a unique “Christmas in July” vibe. More than 50 years later, Ella Fitzgerald’s Christmas remains a timeless classic. It has been praised as a standout holiday album that showcases Fitzgerald’s artistic talent.
Known as the “Queen of Jazz” and the “First Lady of Song,” Fitzgerald is celebrated as one of the greatest jazz vocalists of the 20th century. Her impact on music and civil rights is significant, and this Christmas album is one of her finest works.
Get ready for the holidays and check out this reissued classic for your vinyl collection!
