T-Minute One Day to Christmas in July

Before we make it to the Christmas songs today, I’d like to point any readers who might be fans of The Simpsons to visit IDM, our sister site, for a celebration of songs from the television show. On Friday, we’re permanently shutting down IDM and are going to use 77 Santas as our main blog. But don’t worry—November and December will still be entirely devoted to Christmas music.

Tomorrow, 77 Santas is going to end the summer holiday season with a band, so be sure to check in—we have around twenty songs lined up. Today, enjoy eight morsels of Christmas goodness.

Silent Night – The London Philharmonic Orchestra
Anyone who has checked out the past few days knows how much I love classic versions of Christmas songs. This version of Silent Night might very well be my favorite off the London Philharmonic’s Christmas album. This sweet, soaring rendition will instill the Christmas spirit in anyone.

Silver Bells – Clint Walker
Another classic country song. I hadn’t heard Clint Walker’s soothing baritone before but this is a true rendition.

Merry Christmas Baby – Ike & Tina Turner
Nothing like Ike and Tina rocking around the Christmas tree. It sure sounds like they’re happy here—let’s hope so!

Blue Christmas – Webb Pierce
Another country version of an old standard. The nice background vocals add to the melancholy.

Santa Claus, Santa Claus – James Brown
The Godfather of Soul—this one is a classic. Those vocals are just incredible.

There’s Trouble Brewin’ – Jack Scott
An original take on Twas the Night Before Christmas, this song packs a great groove. Plus, it features handclaps, which make any song better.

Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) – U2
As anyone who was a regular reader of the blog knows, this is my all-time favorite Christmas song. We’ll feature Darlene Love’s masterful original tomorrow, but in the meantime enjoy U2’s very good cover.

O Little Town of Bethlehem – The London Philharmonic Orchestra
Yet another beautiful stunner from the orchestra.