Ultimate Christmas song?

Dr. Eddies Wingman

Brighter than thousand_suns
Having just listened to one of my all-time favourite performances of a Christmas-themed song, it struck me I should ask what songs bring the holiday spirit to 11 in the heart of Maidenfans? What song warms your soul, brings fond memories or even moves you to the point where the wee Christmas tear might drop?

I will kick this off by posting the song that inspired me to create the thread. It was originally written by a Frenchman, it has been translated to many languages and there are many memorable performances in English as well. My dad has a weak spot for Mahalia Jackson's version. For me, and for many others, I think the ultimate performance is in Swedish, by one of the greatest tenors to grace the modern era of humanity: Jussi Björling. He made his debut at the Stockholm opera in 1930 and remained a great singer until his heart failed in 1960. This recording was made in 1959 and I've been hearing it on Norwegian radio probably hundreds of times since I was a kid. It sounds so majestic, still natural. Each word flows effortlessly, and the lead-up to the final high note ... just ... wow.

 
Jussi Björling's O Helga Natt is powerful stuff.

I am also very fond of the title song to Tři Ořišky Pro Popelku. You have to be Norwegian to understand.

My favourite is Fairytale of New York, although it doesn't exactly fill me with the christmas spirit.

Other favourites include

Happy Xmas (War is Over) - John Lennon
A Christmas Song - Jethro Tull
Driving Home For Christmas - Chris Rea
Snowman - Sia
 
I’m not a big Christmas music person. I’ve tried a few things this year, like spinning some Trans-Siberian Orchestra alot more than usual. While they are good and have some excellent moments, it just don’t click well. But finally I have understood the concept albums, their stories are pretty good.

Of the other more traditional songs, I love the original Walking in the air, and the version of Auld Lang Syne with Mairi Campbell. Also some songs from my native country (Norway). December skies by Steven Wilson is a funny experiemental song. Same about Christmas spirits by Sonata arctica.
 
There are some traditional Christmas songs that evoke very happy childhood memories for me.
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Do You Hear What I Hear
I Saw Three Ships
What Child Is This
Carol of the Bells
 
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