5 Jazz Christmas Songs that Swing

Christmas music hasn't changed much over the years. Every time a new form of musical genre is discovered the old standards seem to make their way in to the new form.

Many of the best recordings of Christmas songs has been in the jazz genre. Swinging to jazz Christmas songs has been going on since the beginning of jazz. The following jazz Christmas songs will definitely get you swinging.

Christmas in New Orleans

A long-time favorite jazz Christmas song for those that swing. The true king of swing, Louis Armstrong, does it again. His vocals are as good as his playing. Armstrong set the standard on what is considered excellent jazz. Recorded with Benny Carter's Orchestra in 1955.

Jingle Bells

A truly swinging rendition of "Jingle Bells" is performed by Duke Ellington and His Orchestra. "Jingle Bells" is considered the first Christmas song and is probably the most familiar. This swinging jazz version breaths new life into a very old song.

White Christmas

Amongst the many, countless, recordings of "White Christmas" one famous jazz singer's version stands out. Every song Ella Fitzgerald ever sang would be hard to follow. Her clear, pure tone make this song a jazz Christmas standard.

Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer

First recorded by Gene Autry in 1949 the version that swings the most was recorded in 1959 by Dean Martin. Although a bit dated and somewhat corny sounding for the day, Dean Martin swings. Starting out as a singing cowboy song and ending up an American classic gives Rudolph credibility.

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

If slow, cool, jazz is your thing then set the seasonal mood with this song by Joe Williams. With full big band accompaniment Joe Williams lays out a smooth performance. This song could be valid for listening at any time of the year.

There are many other songs that could have made the list. With so many great Christmas songs performed by famous jazz artists it is hard to choose. To make the list the song had to be very well known.

If you have not heard Louis Armstrong perform "Christmas in New Orleans", I suggest you do so. The talent and emotion Louis brought to the world is a thing to not miss out on.

Sources: Personal experience.