Retro Christmas classics to sing along with

What would Christmas be without music? From traditional carols to more modern fare, the songs of the season have a way of sticking in our heads. Even better are the tunes you don’t have to be a diva or pop star to enjoy.

We invite you to turn up the volume and sing along with these classic holiday songs:

White Christmas by Bing Crosby

Although this song made its silver screen debut in Holiday Inn, many people still associate it with the movie of the same name. As you will see in this video, Crosby performed it on numerous occasions.

Jingle Bell Rock by Bobby Helms

First released in 1957, Helms’ version of this swinging song is still one of the best known in the world. Some of the lyrics are a nod to the classic “Jingle Bells”, but this tune is more likely to get you dancing.

I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas by Gayla Peevey

Peevey was just ten years old when she recorded this number back in 1953. The playful song still resonates with anyone who has wanted something unique for Christmas — but perhaps a toy hippo would do?

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Santa Baby by Eartha Kitt

With all the luxury items on this lady’s list — including a sable, ’54 convertible (light blue), a yacht and a ring — Santa might think a hippopotamus isn’t so bad after all. (And really, who is that good?)

You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch by Thurl Ravenscroft

You have to love the creative lyrics in this theme from the original animated version of “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”. With lines like “your brain is full of spiders” and “you’ve got garlic in your soul” it’s the perfect antidote to sentimental holiday fare.

Let it Snow by Dean Martin

If you live in a part of a country that’s been experiencing warmer than normal temperatures, consider this the Christmas version of a “rain dance”.

There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays by Perry Como

No matter how far you roam, this tune made famous by Combo is likely to top the “most played” list this time of year.

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Sleigh Ride and It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Andy Williams

They don’t make Christmas specials like this one anymore. Enjoy some old-fashioned choreography — and special effects! (Just be sure to turn down your computer’s volume when you’re done.)

I’ll be Home for Christmas by Bing Crosby

Originally released during the Second World War, this favourite strikes a note with anyone who is separated from their loved ones during the holidays — including soldiers who are serving abroad, for whom the song was originally written.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town by Ella Fitzgerald

This classic dates all the way back to 1934 when it first topped the charts, though most people were clamoring for the sheet music at the time rather than the recording. Many artists have covered the song in the last seven decades including Fitzgerald, who brings some swing to the song.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Rosemary Clooney

Ever thought the line “hang a shining star upon the highest bow” sounded a little out of place? Rumour has it Frank Sinatra requested songwriter Hugh Martin replace the line “until then we’ll have to muddle through somehow” in order to make the song more cheerful for his holiday album. Judy Garland was the original songstress in Meet Me in St. Louis, but Clooney’s smooth voice is just as memorable.

A special thanks to our Facebook fans and Twitter followers for suggesting some of these tunes. If we missed your favourite song, we welcome your suggestions in the comments section!