Description
Ella Fitzgerald – Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas – Ruby Red Vinyl Record
Ella Fitzgerald – Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas, released in 1960, is a joyful, stylish, and impeccably arranged holiday classic that showcases Ella Fitzgerald at her most playful and effervescent. Unlike many Christmas albums that lean heavily into solemnity or sentimentality, this collection embraces the upbeat and jazzy side of the season, delivering a set of timeless standards with swinging arrangements and pure vocal charm.
Backed by Frank DeVol and His Orchestra, Ella transforms familiar holiday fare into vibrant, toe-tapping gems. Her voice—bright, warm, and technically flawless—is the star throughout, full of energy, nuance, and lighthearted charisma. From the moment the album kicks off with “Jingle Bells,” it’s clear this isn’t a quiet fireside record—it’s a celebration, perfect for festive gatherings or lifting holiday spirits.
Highlights include:
“Sleigh Ride” – bursting with rhythmic snap and vocal acrobatics, showcasing Ella’s joyful phrasing.
“Frosty the Snowman” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” – full of playful inflection, making them feel both classic and freshly fun.
“Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” and “Winter Wonderland” – delivered with effortless swing and stylish control.
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – one of the few slower, more heartfelt moments, handled with tender sophistication.
One notable thing about this album is that it contains secular Christmas songs only, avoiding religious carols and focusing instead on the seasonal and whimsical. This gives it a consistent tone—light, jazzy, and joyfully nonchalant—that stands apart from more solemn holiday records of the era.
Over the years, Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas has become a beloved holiday staple, often cited as one of the best Christmas albums ever recorded, especially in the jazz and vocal pop tradition. It remains a go-to for those who appreciate vocal elegance, big band energy, and the golden age of American song interpreted by one of the greatest voices in history.
Whether you’re decking the halls or dancing around the tree, this album is an instant mood-lifter—and a reminder of just how timeless Ella Fitzgerald’s artistry truly is.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Jingle Bells
Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?
Sleigh Ride
The Christmas Song
Good Morning Blues
Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
Winter Wonderland
Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer
Frosty The Snowman
White Christmas
