Top Ten Christmas Crooners

There are singers who have crooned their way into our hearts our memories our collective consciousness with their Christmas carols. They are timeless and will no doubt always be part of an American Christmas heritage. While there are dozens of these crooners etched on vinyl or plastic, only a select few qualify as the top ten Christmas crooners of all time.

#10 Perry Como

Who better for the number 10 spot that a man who was greatly influenced by the man in the number 1 spot? Perry's "Silver Bells" is reminiscent of his role model, if a bit peppier.

#9 Andy Williams

The TV Variety show host and pop singer made the list with "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year", recorded in 1963 that is still heard every year.

#8 Harry Belafonte

Belafonte was nicknamed the King of Calypso for the island sounds he brought to his music. It is however his more than capable handling of the Christmas song "Mary's Boy Child" that will keep him in my heart.

#7 Elvis Presley

With his blues background, Elvis had a knack for forlorn-sounding Christmas songs." Blue Christmas" and "I'll Be Home for Christmas" remind me of those loved ones I miss especially at Christmas.

#6 Burl Ives

With a voice like butter, Burl Ives stole the children's cartoon classic, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer". His version of "Have a Holly Jolly Christmas" and "Silver and Gold" are as timeless as the cartoon itself.

#5 Gene Autry

The singing cowboy stole hearts of children and adults alike with the more whimsical tunes of the day. When I think of "Here Comes Santa Claus" or "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer", it is his rendition I hear.

#4 Nat King Cole

Nat King Cole made hundreds of recording and could sing like nobody else. His rendition of "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire" or "The Christmas Song" is classic that will never be surpassed.

#3 Michael Buble

The newest addition to the list of crooners has found himself a permanent home. His versatile range and memorable voice make him worth adding to your collection. Give a listen to "Let It Snow" and you'll swear you're listening to someone from the 40's.

#2 Frank Sinatra

Frank had a voice that could melt Frosty. His voice was deep resonant and powerful. He churned out hit after hit and some of his Christmas classics include "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", "White Christmas", and "Silent Night."

#1 Bing Crosby

Bing tops the list of almost anyone who listens to Christmas songs. He has made numerous albums and recordings that survive today. "Do You Hear What I Hear", "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" and of course, his signature Christmas song, "White Christmas."

Sources: Personal Experience, YouTube (various recordings), Yahoo Music