10 Best Elvis Presley Christmas Songs

Feature Photo: Photo by Toni Cuenca

Elvis Presley’s contributions to Christmas music are as legendary as his career itself, showcasing his versatility and emotional depth. His first holiday release, Elvis’ Christmas Album, debuted in October 1957 and became a defining moment in his career. The album combined traditional carols like “Silent Night” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem” with rock-infused tracks such as “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” and “Blue Christmas,” the latter becoming one of his most enduring seasonal hits. Produced by Steve Sholes and recorded at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, the album featured the iconic backing vocals of The Jordanaires. Elvis’ Christmas Album achieved unprecedented success, becoming the best-selling Christmas album of all time in the United States, with over 20 million copies sold worldwide.

In 1971, Elvis revisited the holiday theme with Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas. This album displayed a more mature and reflective side of Elvis, blending traditional hymns with original compositions like “Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees” and “The Wonderful World of Christmas.” Recorded at RCA Studio B in Nashville, the sessions were produced by Felton Jarvis and featured a cast of accomplished musicians, including James Burton on guitar and Charlie McCoy on harmonica. This list highlights the best of Elvis Presley’s Christmas songs, celebrating his unique ability to bring magic to the holiday season.

# 10 – The First Noel – Elvis Presley

Few Christmas hymns are as enduring as “The First Noel,” a traditional English carol that dates back to at least the 16th century. The hymn’s origins lie in Cornwall, where it was passed down through oral tradition before appearing in print in the 1823 collection Some Ancient Christmas Carols. Its timeless melody and poignant retelling of the Nativity story have made it a favorite among artists across centuries. From renditions by Bing Crosby to versions by Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra, “The First Noel” has long stood as a hallmark of holiday music. Elvis Presley’s version of the carol was included on his 1971 album Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas, adding a soulful interpretation to this beloved classic.

Elvis recorded “The First Noel” at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, during sessions held in May 1971. Produced by Felton Jarvis, these sessions saw Elvis collaborating with some of the finest studio musicians of the time, including James Burton on lead guitar, Norbert Putnam on bass, and Jerry Carrigan on drums. Elvis’s arrangement of “The First Noel” maintains the reverence of the original while showcasing his signature vocal delivery, blending a deep emotional resonance with understated instrumental backing. The album Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas was released on October 20, 1971, reaching Number 1 on the Billboard Christmas Albums chart and becoming a staple in holiday collections worldwide.

Lyrically, “The First Noel” captures the awe and spiritual wonder of the Christmas story, recounting the angel’s announcement to shepherds of the birth of Christ. Elvis’s vocal interpretation lends the song a contemplative and heartfelt tone, emphasizing the hymn’s themes of divine grace and humility. Compared to other tracks on the album, such as “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” Elvis’s rendition of “The First Noel” feels more intimate, relying on minimalistic instrumentation to let the lyrics shine. This stylistic choice aligns with the reverence the song has historically demanded, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone of traditional Christmas music.

# 9 – Santa Claus Is Back in Town – Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley’s “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” stands as one of the most dynamic and memorable Christmas tracks in rock and roll history. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, the song was composed specifically for Elvis in 1957. Unlike traditional Christmas carols, this track introduced a bluesy, rock-driven energy that perfectly complemented Elvis’s unparalleled charisma. It debuted on the album Elvis’ Christmas Album, which was released on October 15, 1957, and remains one of the best-selling holiday albums of all time. The album reached Number 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart and has since become a staple of holiday music collections.

Recorded at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California, on September 7, 1957, “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” showcased the talents of Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, D.J. Fontana on drums, and Dudley Brooks on piano, with background vocals provided by the Jordanaires. The song’s production, led by Steve Sholes, emphasized a stripped-down yet electrifying sound. Elvis’s performance brought an undeniable edge to the holiday spirit, blending sultry vocal delivery with an infectious rhythm that diverged sharply from more traditional Christmas tunes like “The First Noel.”

Lyrically, the song takes a playful yet bold approach, turning Santa Claus into a cool, rock-and-roll figure. Lines like “Got no sleigh with reindeer, no sack on my back / You’re gonna see me coming in a big black Cadillac” reflect the rebellious tone Elvis brought to the holiday season. This energy distinguishes the track from other songs on Elvis’ Christmas Album, such as the gospel-tinged “Silent Night.” Critics have praised “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” for its originality and enduring appeal, with its mix of blues and rock elements setting it apart as a genre-defining Christmas classic.

Elvis’s rendition of “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” redefined what a Christmas song could be, infusing it with swagger and soul. The track has remained a favorite across generations, encapsulating Elvis’s ability to push boundaries even in the realm of holiday music. Its place on Elvis’ Christmas Album not only solidified the record as a monumental success but also helped establish Elvis as a perennial figure in holiday celebrations.

# 8 – Silver Bells

“Silver Bells,” a holiday classic written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, has become one of the most enduring Christmas songs since its debut in the 1951 film The Lemon Drop Kid, where it was famously performed by Bob Hope and Marilyn Maxwell. Over the years, the song has been covered by countless artists, including Bing Crosby and Carol Richards, whose 1950s recording turned it into a chart-topping Christmas favorite. Elvis Presley brought his own distinctive flair to “Silver Bells” when he included it on his 1971 holiday album, Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas, a record that further solidified his role as a holiday music icon.

Elvis’s version of “Silver Bells” was recorded on May 16, 1971, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, under the direction of producer Felton Jarvis. The session featured a lineup of accomplished musicians, including James Burton on guitar, Norbert Putnam on bass, and David Briggs on piano, alongside backing vocals from The Imperials and The Jordanaires. The production embraced a rich yet understated arrangement that allowed Elvis’s soulful vocals to take center stage. Unlike some of the more upbeat tracks on the album, such as “Santa Claus Is Back in Town,” his rendition of “Silver Bells” maintained a reflective and tender tone, befitting the song’s lyrical imagery of bustling city streets and Christmas cheer.

Lyrically, “Silver Bells” evokes a nostalgic depiction of holiday festivities, from “city sidewalks, busy sidewalks dressed in holiday style” to the titular silver bells that ring out a joyous refrain. Elvis’s warm baritone imbues these scenes with a sense of intimacy and reverence, transforming a public celebration into a personal moment of reflection. Critics have often highlighted how his version manages to balance the grandeur of the original composition with his signature sincerity, making it a standout track on Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas. The album itself was a commercial success, peaking at Number 1 on the Billboard Christmas Albums chart and earning multiple reissues over the decades.

# 7 -Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees

“Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees” is a poignant and introspective holiday ballad recorded by Elvis Presley for his 1971 album Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas. The song, written by Red West and Glen Spreen, offers a somber reflection on the holiday season through the lens of loss and nostalgia, standing apart from the album’s more celebratory tracks. Its heartfelt narrative and understated production have made it a cherished part of Elvis’s Christmas repertoire.

Elvis recorded “Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees” on May 15, 1971, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, during a series of sessions that produced much of the Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas album. Under the guidance of producer Felton Jarvis, the session featured a team of skilled musicians, including James Burton on guitar, Norbert Putnam on bass, and David Briggs on piano. Backing vocals were provided by The Imperials and The Jordanaires, whose harmonies added depth to the song’s melancholic tone. The arrangement is deliberately sparse, allowing Elvis’s emotive baritone to carry the weight of the song’s longing lyrics.

Lyrically, “Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees” captures the bittersweet essence of the holiday season for those who feel the absence of loved ones. Lines such as “Lights aglow and mistletoe don’t mean a thing when you’re not here” encapsulate the song’s theme of loneliness amidst the cheer of Christmas. Elvis’s delivery imbues the lyrics with a raw emotional authenticity, making it one of the most personal and relatable tracks on the album. The juxtaposition of traditional holiday imagery with the singer’s evident sadness creates a powerful emotional impact.

# 6 – O Come, All Ye Faithful

“O Come, All Ye Faithful,” a revered Christmas hymn, dates back to the 18th century and has been attributed to John Francis Wade. Its enduring appeal has led to countless renditions by artists across generations. Elvis Presley recorded his version for his 1971 album Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas, showcasing his ability to blend sacred themes with his signature vocal style.

Elvis recorded “O Come, All Ye Faithful” on May 15, 1971, at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, as part of a series of sessions dedicated to crafting the Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas album. Felton Jarvis served as producer, bringing together a talented ensemble of musicians, including James Burton on guitar, Norbert Putnam on bass, and David Briggs on piano. The backing vocals by The Imperials and The Jordanaires added a rich choral texture, aligning with the hymn’s traditional origins. The recording captures a reverence and warmth that are hallmarks of Elvis’s approach to gospel and Christmas music.

Lyrically, “O Come, All Ye Faithful” is a call to worship and celebrate the birth of Christ. Elvis’s rendition stays faithful to the hymn’s spiritual essence while imbuing it with his unique interpretive depth. The combination of solemnity and grandeur in his delivery elevates the song, creating a version that resonates with both long-time fans and those seeking a deeper connection to the hymn’s message. Lines such as “O come, let us adore him” take on an added poignancy through Elvis’s heartfelt phrasing and the lush arrangement.

# 5 – Here Comes Santa Claus

“Here Comes Santa Claus” was penned by Gene Autry and Oakley Haldeman in 1947, inspired by Autry’s experience leading the Santa Claus Lane Parade in Los Angeles. The song quickly became a holiday classic, embraced for its cheerful melody and optimistic lyrics. Over the decades, “Here Comes Santa Claus” has been recorded by numerous artists, solidifying its position as a festive staple. Elvis Presley brought his unique vocal charm to the song for his 1957 Elvis’ Christmas Album, making it an essential entry in his celebrated Christmas repertoire.

Elvis recorded his rendition of “Here Comes Santa Claus” on September 7, 1957, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California. The session, produced by Steve Sholes, featured legendary musicians including Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums, alongside the lush harmonies of The Jordanaires. Elvis’s interpretation, while maintaining the joyful essence of the original, infused the song with his signature rock and roll flair, bridging the gap between traditional holiday music and contemporary sounds.

Lyrically, “Here Comes Santa Claus” captures the excitement of Christmas Eve, with vivid imagery of Santa Claus arriving with gifts and goodwill. Elvis’s smooth delivery brings a warmth to lines like “Peace on earth will come to all if we just follow the light,” emphasizing the song’s deeper message of unity and joy. His ability to balance the lighthearted and meaningful aspects of the song makes his version a standout among other renditions.

# 4 – The Wonderful World of Christmas

The song “The Wonderful World of Christmas” was featured on Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas, released on October 20, 1971. Written by Charles Tobias and Al Frisch, the track is an ode to the festive season, emphasizing themes of unity, joy, and goodwill. It became a key element of Elvis’s holiday repertoire, further cementing his association with Christmas classics.

Elvis recorded “The Wonderful World of Christmas” at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee, during sessions held between May 15 and 21, 1971. Under the production of Felton Jarvis, the recording featured an ensemble of seasoned musicians, including James Burton on lead guitar, Norbert Putnam on bass, and David Briggs on piano. The vocal harmonies provided by The Imperials added a rich texture to the arrangement, complementing Elvis’s emotive delivery. The album was part of RCA’s efforts to showcase Elvis’s versatility, blending traditional carols with contemporary holiday songs.

The song’s lyrics highlight the joy and warmth of the season, urging listeners to embrace the spirit of Christmas with open hearts. Lines like “Open up your hearts to all on this holyday” reflect a universal message of kindness and togetherness. Elvis’s vocal phrasing brings an intimate and reflective quality to the performance, making it a standout among the tracks on the album. The lush instrumentation, with its blend of strings and subtle rhythms, enhances the song’s serene and uplifting mood.

# 3 – I’ll Be Home on Christmas Day

“I’ll Be Home on Christmas Day” highlights Elvis Presley’s remarkable ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with the spirit of the season. Written by Michael Jarrett, the song was recorded during sessions for Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas, released on October 20, 1971. Its introspective lyrics and soulful delivery set it apart as a deeply personal take on the holiday experience.

Recorded at RCA Studio B in Nashville on May 16, 1971, the track features some of the finest session musicians of the time, including James Burton on guitar, Norbert Putnam on bass, and David Briggs on piano. The Imperials provided harmonies that added a rich, layered texture to the recording, all overseen by producer Felton Jarvis. Elvis’s multiple takes of the song reflect his commitment to conveying its poignant mix of longing and nostalgia, culminating in a performance that resonates deeply with listeners.

The song’s importance transcends its original release. “I’ll Be Home on Christmas Day” has since become a fixture in American holiday traditions, notably played every Christmas in Times Square to kick off the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This honor solidifies its place as not just a standout on Elvis Sings The Wonderful World of Christmas but also as a cornerstone of seasonal music history. The album itself reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Christmas Albums chart in 1971, further cementing Elvis’s enduring legacy in holiday music.

Lyrically, the song’s reflective tone and evocative imagery—such as the line, “If I could only see that familiar sunrise through sleepy eyes, how happy I’d be”—capture the bittersweet nature of the holidays for those separated from loved ones. Elvis’s soulful interpretation and the song’s association with such a high-profile tradition ensure its place as one of his most memorable Christmas recordings, bridging personal sentiment with collective celebration.

# 2 – Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)

“Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)” is a playful and upbeat Christmas classic recorded by Elvis Presley for his Elvis’ Christmas Album, released on October 15, 1957. Written by Aaron Schroeder and Claude Demetrius, the song injects a lively, rock-and-roll sensibility into the holiday genre, showcasing Presley’s versatility and charm. Alongside the album’s more somber or traditional selections, this track provides a joyful counterpoint, reinforcing its enduring popularity.

The song was recorded at Radio Recorders in Hollywood on September 7, 1957, with Steve Sholes serving as the producer. The session featured some of Presley’s trusted collaborators, including Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, and D.J. Fontana on drums, along with Dudley Brooks on piano and The Jordanaires providing signature backing vocals. The energy and precision of the recording session highlight the seamless blend of Elvis’s rock-and-roll roots with holiday cheer, creating a sound that felt both contemporary and timeless.

Released as part of Elvis’ Christmas Album, the record achieved significant commercial success, becoming the best-selling Christmas album of all time in the United States and solidifying Elvis’s place as a holiday music icon. The album peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart and has since been certified Diamond by the RIAA. Although “Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)” was not released as a standalone single, its inclusion in such a landmark album ensured its visibility and lasting appeal.

Lyrically, the song captures a lighthearted and relatable sentiment, with Elvis imploring Santa to reunite him with his love. The playful rhythm and cheerful melody perfectly complement the lyrics, making it an irresistible sing-along. Compared to other songs on this list, like the soulful “I’ll Be Home on Christmas Day,” this track embodies a more buoyant and carefree approach to holiday music. Its infectious spirit has made it a staple of Christmas playlists for decades, cementing its place as one of the most enjoyable and enduring Elvis Presley holiday songs.

# 1 – Blue Christmas

“Blue Christmas” has become synonymous with Elvis Presley’s deep, emotive voice and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic Christmas songs of all time. Originally written by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson, the song was first recorded by Doye O’Dell in 1948 and later covered by artists such as Ernest Tubb in 1949, whose version became a country hit. Elvis Presley’s rendition, however, released on Elvis’ Christmas Album in 1957, propelled the song to unprecedented popularity, embedding it into the fabric of holiday music culture.

Elvis recorded “Blue Christmas” on September 5, 1957, at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, California, under the production of Steve Sholes. The recording featured The Jordanaires on backing vocals, Scotty Moore on guitar, Bill Black on bass, D.J. Fontana on drums, and Dudley Brooks on piano, all of whom helped create the rich, mournful tone that defines the track. Elvis’s version adds a signature blend of blues and rockabilly elements, transforming the song into something both timeless and distinctly his own. The mournful delivery and subtle ornamentation of his voice gave the song an emotional depth that resonated with audiences worldwide.

The Elvis’ Christmas Album achieved significant commercial success, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart and becoming the best-selling Christmas album of all time in the United States. Though “Blue Christmas” was not initially released as a single, it quickly became a fan favorite and has been included in countless holiday compilations over the decades. Its enduring appeal has ensured that it remains one of Elvis’s most celebrated holiday tracks, continuing to receive significant airplay during the Christmas season.

Lyrically, the song captures the heartbreak of spending the holidays without a loved one, evoking a bittersweet contrast between the festive season and personal sorrow. Elvis’s interpretation, with its understated instrumental arrangement and emotional resonance, stands out as a masterclass in conveying longing and melancholy. Compared to other tracks on the album, such as the upbeat “Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me),” “Blue Christmas” showcases a different dimension of holiday music, one that acknowledges the complexity of emotions tied to the season. Its combination of soulful artistry and universal sentiment solidifies “Blue Christmas” as a standout in both Elvis Presley’s catalog and the broader landscape of Christmas music.

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