Christmas Music 2013: New Songs For Your Holiday Playlist

In the holiday lull between Thanksgiving and New Years, it seems that radio stations and retail stores alike are overthrown by Christmas music playlists looped on repeat. While we always enjoy listening to Bing Crosby’s classic “White Christmas” and Mariah Carey’s instant hit “All I Want For Christmas,” we also look forward to the new Christmas music releases so we can add more variety into our playlists. Here’s a look at some of the 2013 Christmas music albums we can count on to boost our holiday cheer!

Kelly Clarkson – Wrapped In Red

kelly-clarkson-wrapped-in-redAmerican Idol sensation Kelly Clarkson has a lot to be thankful for this Christmas—a new husband and her first baby on the way—and she can add great Christmas album to the mix, too! Clarkson’s Wrapped in Red is not only a blend of original Christmas songs and traditional tunes; Kelly’s newest album features musical styles such as R&B, Pop, Country, and Rock ‘n’ Roll. There’s sure to be a song that appeals to every listener! Some of Clarkson’s original Christmas songs include “Underneath The Tree,” “Wrapped In Red,” and “Winter Dreams (Brandon’s Song)” which she wrote for her new husband, Brandon Blackstock. The two married in late October and announced Kelly’s pregnancy just a month later. Don’t miss Kelly’s renditions of classic Christmas tracks like “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” and “Baby It’s Cold Outside” either! Overall, Clarkson delivers a standout Christmas album that weaves nostalgic memories of holidays past with bright anticipation of Christmases to come.

Mary J. Blige – A Mary Christmas

mary-j-blige-a-mary-christmasThere’s no doubt that Mary J. Blige is a highly accomplished musical artist—she’s been awarded nine Grammys over her career—so it’s no surprise that her first holiday record comes highly anticipated by fans and critics. And it delivers! Blige’s Christmas album showcases a mellower, more relaxed side of Mary’s iconic voice. Mary sticks to the traditional Christmas songs on her album instead of integrating new tracks. She pairs with other singers like Barbara Streisand on “When You Wish Upon a Star,” Marc Anthony on “Silent Night” (which is sung in both Spanish and English), and newcomer Jessie J on “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Blige herself is magnificent on songs like “The Little Drummer Boy” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Any of her recorded Christmas songs would make great additions to your holiday playlists. We’re looking forward to listening to Blige’s A Mary Christmas in front of the fireplace on a snowy holiday night!

The Robertson Family – Duck the Halls: A Robertson Family Christmas

duck-dynasty-duck-the-halls-robertson-family-christmasDo you religiously watch the Robertson clan on Duck Dynasty? If so, your Christmas just got a little brighter! Duck the Halls is a compilation of Christmas classics with tounge-in-cheek southern humor (but clean!) from show favorites like Uncle Si. The Roberstons are joined by seasoned country stars like Alison Krauss, George Straight, and Luke Bryan. Standout tracks include Missy Robertson singing “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and Uncle Si’s “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” If you enjoy a little humor with your Christmas music (along with duck sounds in the background), this might be the perfect Christmas album for you!

 

Other notable 2013 Christmas music releases include Bad Religion’s Christmas Songs (for the punk rocker with a love for the holiday season), Jewel’s Let It Snow: A Holiday Collection (which includes new tracks “It’s Christmastime” and “Blue Crystal Glow”), and Kool and the Gang’s Kool For The Holidays (which features the original Kool tune “Christmas Tyme (The Perfect Time For Love)).

 

Happy listening, Leading Ladies!

 

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