The Joyous Legacy of Ella Fitzgerald’s Christmas Albums: A Celebration of Swing and Spirit – Part 7 of The 12 Records of Yule
As the holiday season rolls around, the soundscape of Christmas transforms, invoking memories of cherished traditions and the joyous company of loved ones. Among the voices that resonate through this festive time, none capture the essence of holiday cheer quite like that of Ella Fitzgerald. With her unparalleled vocal prowess and magnetic charm, Fitzgerald has left an indelible mark on the world of holiday music. In this seventh installment of our series, “The 12 Records of Yule,” we take a deep dive into the history of Fitzgerald’s two Christmas albums, exploring how they reflect her artistry and the spirit of the season.
The first of these holiday treasures is Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas, released in 1960. Recorded during the sultry summer months of that year, this album is a dazzling showcase of Fitzgerald’s ability to infuse the holiday genre with her signature jazz flair. Working with a studio orchestra arranged and conducted by Frank DeVol, Fitzgerald brought a playful energy to the collection of secular Christmas songs. The album stands out for its upbeat arrangements and swinging rhythms, a departure from the traditional carols that often dominate the holiday music landscape.
From the opening notes of “Jingle Bells” to the infectious groove of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” Fitzgerald’s exuberance is palpable. This is an album that invites listeners to celebrate the season with joy, laughter, and perhaps even a little dancing. The recording sessions with DeVol and his orchestra allowed Fitzgerald to explore the festive spirit in a way that was uniquely her own, blending jazz with holiday classics to create a sound that is both timeless and fresh.
Interestingly, Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas is Fitzgerald’s only complete album of Christmas tunes released under the Verve label. However, it wasn’t her first foray into holiday music. In 1959, Verve had issued a 7” 45 RPM single featuring “The Christmas Song” paired with “The Secret of Christmas” on the B-side. Both tracks were recorded with the talented Russ Garcia and His Orchestra, showcasing Fitzgerald’s early foray into the festive genre. The success of this single paved the way for the fuller exploration of Christmas music that would come with her album the following year.
Fast forward to 1967, and Fitzgerald returned to the studio for her second and final Christmas album, simply titled Ella Fitzgerald’s Christmas. This collection marks a notable shift in tone and theme, as it comprises exclusively religious Christmas songs. Released as her second album for Capitol Records, this album reflects a more introspective side of the holiday season, inviting listeners to reflect on the spiritual significance of Christmas.
Tracks like “O Holy Night” and “Silent Night” showcase Fitzgerald’s ability to convey deep emotion and reverence through her voice. Her interpretations of these traditional carols are imbued with a sense of warmth and sincerity, demonstrating her mastery of both jazz and sacred music. The album charted at #27 on Billboard’s Holiday Albums chart, a testament to Fitzgerald’s enduring appeal and the timeless nature of her artistry.
The contrast between the two albums—one filled with swinging, secular tunes and the other steeped in religious tradition—highlights the versatility of Fitzgerald as an artist. While Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas invites listeners to join in the celebration, Ella Fitzgerald’s Christmas provides a moment of reflection and reverence, reminding us of the deeper meanings that the holiday season can embody.
Both albums have been reissued multiple times over the years, preserving Fitzgerald’s enchanting vocals for new generations of listeners. The varied artwork on the covers reflects not only the changing aesthetics of the times but also the enduring legacy of Fitzgerald’s music, which continues to resonate across the decades.
As we immerse ourselves in the sounds of the season, Ella Fitzgerald’s Christmas albums remind us of the joy and spirit that music can bring. Whether we’re swaying to the swinging melodies of her first album or finding solace in the sacred hymns of her second, Fitzgerald’s contributions to holiday music are a celebration of the magic of Christmas.
In this season of giving, let us cherish the legacy of Ella Fitzgerald, whose voice has become a cherished part of our holiday traditions. As we gather around our own fires, her enchanting melodies remind us to embrace the joy, love, and reflection that the holiday season brings, filling our hearts with the warmth of jazz and the spirit of Christmas.