Danny Recommends: Throwback Christmas Music
Every so often we dip our toes into a series called Danny Recommends:, posts that tip you off to the stuff that I…you know. The recommendations might be products for use in your ministry, resources that will help you develop leaders around you, or just fun stuff that you need. Want. Whatever. I have a full list of recommended books and such over at the Reading List, but these posts will go into further detail. For other posts in the series, check out the link at the bottom.
I’ll keep this short-yet-controversial, because it’s the week before Christmas and – while you don’t have time to read a lot – you might have time for a good argument. Today I take a rare diversion to tell you what’s on my Christmas playlist.
I was born in the 70s, developed my musical tastes in the 80s, and my CD collection (yes I still have those) tells me that my music purchases tapered off in the mid-90s, sometime between marriage and the birth of our first child (blah blah blah adult financial priorities blah blah blah). I was also heavily influenced by the CCM music scene and Family Christian Store’s Buy 4, Get 1 Free deals of my teenage years.
But a couple of weeks ago I dove back into my musical memories of days gone by – this time assisted by Amazon Music so that I didn’t have to get the CDs out of storage – and assembled my playlist that is absolutely nailing the Christmas spirit. If you’re of my generation, you might appreciate these. If you’re not, well – gather round, kiddies. Uncle Danny is about to enthrall you with songs / instrumental tracks you need to listen to at least once this season (all linked on YouTube for your convenience):
“O Tannenbaum“ (Vince Guaraldi Trio, A Charlie Brown Christmas) Some might say that Christmas isn’t Christmas until the Charlie Brown playlist breaks out. This is the initial song on the CD, and the best of the best.
“Carol of the Bells“ (Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Christmas Eve and Other Stories) Just an absolute banger of a song. Can only be played at full blast…I don’t make the rules.
“First Snowfall“ (Michael W. Smith, Christmas) You don’t get to hear Smitty’s voice in this one, but the instrumentation is simply beautiful.
“Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring“ (Amy Grant, Home for Christmas) Yet another killer instrumental track.
“Breath of Heaven / Mary’s Song“ (Amy Grant, Home for Christmas) A bonus from the original Queen of Crossover. The lyrics on this one are absolutely gorgeous. Mary Did You Know, take note.
“Strange Way to Save the World“ (4Him, The Season of Love) Gracious. 4Him was at their best with this song.
“One Small Child” (David Meece, Our Christmas) Fun fact: the Our Christmas album kicked off a chain of events that led to me meeting my future wife. Winner winner.
“It Feels Like Christmas“ (Ghost of Christmas Present, The Muppet Christmas Carol) The best song from the best Christmas movie in history. Fight me.
“Somewhere In My Memory” (John Williams, Home Alone) All the Christmas memories come to the surface with this one. Beautiful.
“Christmas Shoes” (NewSong, Sheltering Tree) Only kidding. Just making sure you’re paying attention.
Okay kids. Let’s deal with this like adults. Where have I offended you? What have I left off?
See all posts in the Danny Recommends: series.
Disclaimer: FTC watchdogs will probably want to know that the vendors listed / linked above did not ask for this endorsement, nor did they provide me with free swag in order to do so. I’m just a really satisfied fan who wants to let you know about helpful things. I only promote items that have benefitted me and that I believe will benefit you. So there.
I agree completely with your list, and would pose a question for you and your readers: At what time does a “throwback” become a “classic”? Several you have listed above rate the “classic” label for me! Merry Christmas!!
What hurt my soul to its depths is with each passing year, the music I’m most familiar with ARE the classics! 🙂
You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch – all kinds of people come to church – ha ha. Our playlist is similar – people love Christmas music. Last week, we played our church Christmas program on YouTube, and it was well received. I’ll try your playlist this Sunday. As always, thanks for sharing!
Good to hear from you Donnie!