by Elijah Johns | staff writer

With Thanksgiving long and gone and Christmas on the rise, holiday music can be heard almost every where you go. This type of music has evolved over the years to include various artists and genres, however there are some albums that remain iconic to this day. Here are 10 of the best holiday albums out there, in my opinion:

Michael Bublé – Christmas

Michael Bublé, sometimes dubbed the modern day Frank Sinatra, has an album with some magical tunes that make you want to fall in love at Christmas time, or dance around your house filled with the holiday spirit. Michael Bublé brings classic songs back to life with his high notes and soothing voice.

  Elvis Presley – Elvis’ Christmas Album

Elvis’ Christmas Album is one that few people consider to be a classic Christmas album. Combining classic blues and rock elements together, “The King of Rock &       Roll” created an album for a generation that wanted to swing their hips and disobey their parents. Yet these songs still sounds great almost 60 years later.

Mariah Carey – Merry Christmas 

Arguably the most popular Christmas album ever, Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas” is one that will live with us forever, whether you like it or not. Even though the longevity of her career could be questioned, there is no question that this is one of the greatest holiday albums to be released. It’s nearly impossible to misplace that extremely high note that only Carey could pull off.

Vince Guaraldi Trio – A Charlie Brown Christmas 

Sitting on the couch with your family and watching the Charlie Brown Christmas Special over the holiday season, is simply a tradition in some households. Sadly enough, the actual composers aren’t as well known as the songs that Charley Brown and his friends sing. Still, these songs always seemed to bring back good memories and are perfect for singing along to. 

Beach Boys – The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album 

Ironically enough, a band called the Beach Boys actually sings about a season that is the polar opposite of the beach life. Even though all of their other songs are about living the coast life and good vibes, their Christmas album really gives off a holly jolly seasonal chime.

She & Him – She & Him Christmas 

Just because some albums aren’t as well-known as others doesn’t necessarily mean the quality of music is somehow inferior. Comprised by Zooey Deschanel and guitarist M. Ward, this duo blends together to create wonderful holiday season jams.

Justin Bieber – Under the Mistletoe

I mean are you surprised at all? By the time he released his third studio album, Justin Bieber had already created a cult following of young girls around the world. What do you do when you can do absolutely nothing wrong? Release a Christmas album, and have it be a huge hit. It’s good, even great, even though back in 2011 it was hard for me to admit that.

Various Artists – Motown Christmas (1973)

Motown, which is not actually a real place, compiles some of the greatest African American singer-songwriters of all time to write one of the greatest Christmas albums of all time. Jazz, blues, and young Michael Jackson come together to infuse the soul with saxophones and trumpets.

CeeLo Green – CeeLo’s Magic Moment

Also known as “Gnarls Barkley”, CeeLo Green’s christmas album takes more of a funky-soul vibe to an otherwise mundane set of songs. With a combination of covers and original songs, CeeLo’s Magic Moment will make even your really mean uncle dance at the Christmas party.

George Strait – Merry Christmas Strait to You

A San Antonio native and also the greatest country singer to land his feet upon this Earth. This was George Strait’s first Christmas album out of his six records and it is by far the best of them all. With his distinctive voice and unique guitar pieces, Straight creates one of the greatest country Christmas albums.