Christmas (part 1)

Here are a few Christmas songs that will get you in the Christmas spirit while you drive this season. Let's start with Bruce Springsteen, who has been playing 'Santa Clause is Coming to Town in his live show for over 30 years. Here is an early version:

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPM73W69wVs

Next up is the hugely overplayed Christmas Wrapping by the Waitresses. There is actually a contest every year in the USA (hosted by one of the band members) which rewards the first person to hear this song after midnight on Thanksgiving. The contest is usually won within five minutes!

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nud2TQNahaU

One of my favorite Christmas songs has always been December Will Be Magic Again by Kate Bush. It is a beautiful song in any of its iterations. I am particularly fond of the studio version, but Kate singing it live for a Christmas special in 1979 has its own special magic.

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFR0MFdHr9w

Unless you live in the Northeast of the United States, you've likely never heard of Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. They are a Jersey band that had a few minor hits in the 1980's, but are best known for their live sets. Southside Johnny was a member of the Jersey music scene that launched Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, and many more, and he is terrific live. Below is one of the oldest live sets I could find - Merry Christmas Baby, live in 1978

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzwJSG8AlFs

Everything but the girl is a lovely little band that is best known for their song 'Missing'. They did make a beautiful little Christmas song called '25th of December' which is always on my Christmas playlist every year, but is rarely heard on the radio. Here it is:

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrVI9rgF3sY

On a different note, both metaphorically and in actuality, is The Pogues 'Fairytale of New York'. A little rougher, a little more raw, but still a lovely message. A nice addition was Kristy MacColl who sings the counterpoint.

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9jbdgZidu8

Another of my favorites is Guster's 'Tiny Tree Christmas'. It is a short, but very cute, little ditty which really gets the spirit of the season. Highly, highly recommended!

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Afl1Q-0cwdk

I'll close this list with my favorite version of 'Auld Lang Syne' as performed by the Barenaked Ladies. Many, many bands have put out Christmas albums, and I'll post another list shortly. I hope this list helps kick off your holiday season! Thanks!

Https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uv-H_LjV7Sg