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[2026] Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas. From classic standards to original pieces.

If you want to spend Christmas with a touch of style and long for a happy, romantic holiday, jazz versions of Christmas songs are just what you need.

Many artists have taken on jazz arrangements of well-known Christmas tunes, and quite a few have released them as full Christmas albums.

In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of classic jazz numbers perfect for Christmas listening—even for complete jazz beginners.

From timeless standards to hidden gems, and even artists’ original Christmas songs, enjoy a lineup that includes fresh, new tracks as well.

[2026] Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas: from classics to original songs (41–50)

Good Morning BluesElla Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald – Good Morning Blues
Good Morning BluesElla Fitzgerald

Ella Fitzgerald, a legend in the jazz world.

She has released several Christmas albums, and this is a Christmas song from one of them, A Swinging Christmas.

It’s recommended for those who think, “Instrumentals are nice, but jazz is all about the vocals!”

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Merry Christmas BabyEtta James

Merry Christmas Baby is known as an R&B jazz number.

Released in 1947, it has been covered by world-renowned artists such as Chuck Berry, Otis Redding, B.B.

King, and Elvis Presley.

This time, I’ve chosen the version by Etta James, an R&B singer who was active from the 1960s to the 1970s.

Although it’s R&B, it has a very strong jazz element, so it’s also recommended for jazz lovers.

Ryo
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White ChristmasOscar Peterson

Here’s a classic Christmas song arranged by Oscar Peterson into a slow jazz number.

It might not be ideal for parties, but it’s perfect for chilling out at a bar.

The subtle strings are the key—they’re what really seal the Christmas vibe.

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I’ll Be Home For ChristmasStephen Scott

The Christmas song “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” released in 1943 by world-renowned jazz vocalist Bing Crosby, is a piece themed around a soldier reminiscing about home at Christmastime.

Since its release by Crosby, it has become a staple Christmas jazz number.

This time, we’re highlighting a version by jazz vocalist Stephen Scott, who received the Young Talent Award from the National Association of Jazz Educators in 1986.

Be sure to compare it with Bing Crosby’s version.

Ryo
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Santa Claus Is Coming to TownTill Bronner

Till Brönner and The New York Voices – Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
Santa Claus Is Coming to TownTill Bronner

This song has been arranged by many artists and is very famous, but Till Brönner’s version is outstanding! He’s a musician active as a trumpeter, singer, composer, producer, and even a photographer.

You can feel not only a jazz-oriented approach but also elements reminiscent of contemporary pop music and film soundtracks.

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Count Your Blessings Instead of SheepDiana Krall

This song was performed in a film released in 1954 and was written by Irving Berlin.

It’s based on his personal experience: when he was struggling with insomnia, a doctor suggested he try counting the things that made him happy if he couldn’t sleep, and that advice became the inspiration.

It isn’t very well known, but it can be considered one of the great songs.

In the film, Rosemary Clooney sings it.

Diana Krall has great taste for choosing to feature this song, too.

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)
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White ChristmasElla Fitzgerald

White Christmas, a Christmas song that continues to be loved around the world, was released in 1942 with vocals by the male singer Bing Crosby.

Composed by Irving Berlin, the song became a huge hit and has been covered by many artists.

One famous jazz version is by the female jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald.

Even at a relaxed tempo, it conveys the excitement of the Christmas season.

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