The Ventures’ Christmas Album: A Universal Language And The Gift of Instrumental Rock – Part 9 of The 12 Records of Yule
In the pantheon of instrumental rock, few bands have managed to carve out a legacy as enduring and globally impactful as The Ventures. Formed in Tacoma, Washington, in 1958 by Don Wilson and Bob Bogle, this quartet not only popularized the electric guitar across America but also created a unique sound that transcended borders, resonating especially in Japan. Their Christmas album, released in 1965, stands as a testament to their innovative spirit and musical prowess, capturing the essence of the holiday season through pure instrumental brilliance.
From Tacoma To The World
The Ventures burst onto the music scene with their debut album, Walk, Don’t Run, in 1960, which showcased their signature guitar twang and infectious melodies. By the time they released their Christmas album just five years later, they had already established themselves as a formidable force in the instrumental rock genre. The Ventures’ classic lineup included Wilson on rhythm guitar, Bogle initially on lead guitar and later bass, Nokie Edwards switching from bass to lead guitar, and Mel Taylor on drums. This combination of talents would lay the foundation for their distinctive sound, characterized by catchy riffs and a knack for reinvention.
Released in November 1965 on Dolton Records, The Ventures’ Christmas Album was their 19th studio release and peaked at number 9 on the U.S. Top 10 Albums chart, an impressive feat that marked their second-highest charting record at that time. What set this album apart was its innovative approach to holiday music. The Ventures joyfully rocked through a collection of secular Christmas songs, infusing them with the energy and excitement that had become their hallmark.
A Unique Twist On Holiday Classics
What makes The Ventures’ Christmas Album a standout in the holiday music canon is how the band reinterpreted traditional tunes with their signature flair. Each track borrows riffs and intros from popular mid ‘60s hits, seamlessly incorporating them into the fabric of their arrangements. For instance, “Sleigh Ride” cleverly riffs on their own hit “Walk, Don’t Run,” while “Frosty the Snowman” is set to the infectious melody of the Champs’ “Tequila.” This playful melding of familiar sounds created an album that not only celebrated the holiday season but also showcased The Ventures’ ability to innovate and engage listeners.
Originally released in a time when instrumental rock was gaining traction, the album briefly saw a CD reissue by EMI in 1990, but its impact has endured far beyond its initial release. The Ventures’ Christmas album embodies a joyful spirit that resonates with audiences, regardless of age or cultural background.
The Japanese Connection
While The Ventures were enjoying success in the United States, their popularity was rapidly increasing overseas, particularly in Japan. Their first tour to the country in 1962 as a guitar duo was a pivotal moment; Bogle and Wilson returned in 1964 with the full band to a rapturous welcome, greeted by thousands of fans at the airport. This marked the beginning of a profound relationship between The Ventures and the Japanese music scene.
Their 1965 single “Diamond Head,” which only reached #70 in the U.S., soared to #1 in Japan and Hong Kong, becoming the first million-selling single in Japan. The Ventures played a pivotal role in the “eleki boom,” a period in Japanese music characterized by an explosion of interest in electric guitars and guitar-based bands. Their influence inspired countless Japanese musicians to pick up the guitar, leading to a flourishing rock scene that mirrored the excitement of The Ventures’ own sound that still flourishes to this day.
A Lasting Legacy
The Ventures’ impact on the music world was recognized with their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on March 10, 2008, a fitting tribute to their monumental contribution to the genre. Their instrumental music became a universal language, bridging cultural gaps and connecting people around the world through the power of melody and rhythm.
As we reflect on The Ventures’ Christmas Album in this ninth entry of our series, “The 12 Records of Yule,” we are reminded that the true spirit of the season is not just found in lyrics and vocal performances, but in the joyous sounds that bring us together. The Ventures showed us that instrumental rock could capture the magic of Christmas, creating an enduring legacy that continues to inspire musicians and delight audiences to this day.
In a time when the world feels more connected than ever, The Ventures remind us that music—especially the joyful, twangy kind that fills our hearts during the holidays—can be a universal celebration. As we gather around our holiday gatherings, let us turn up the volume on The Ventures and let their infectious melodies remind us of the joy, unity, and spirit that this season brings.