Traditional Christmas carols started somewhere between 1350 and 1550. Before that the holiday music would have been used in traditional liturgy for the season. There’s belief that music started becoming part of the holiday in 4th century Rome.
The earliest ones are from bible verses like “What Child is This?” and “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Over time, the holiday and the music with it have changed.
In the 1600s to 1800s, more songs we recognize become popular. “Joy to the World” and “12 Days of Christmas” and “O Christmas Tree” appeared.
There was a time of Puritan Prohibition in England. In 1645 Christmas was legally abolished and singing carols was a crime. In the 1660s the Stuarts brought back Christmas and the music.
Radio helped Christmas music gain traction, and soon we had popular music creating new styles of songs. Once we had to wait until after Thanksgiving, but there’s been a Christmas holiday creeo to bring music out as early as October 1st in places. The extended shopping season also makes for an extended music season.
With all of the music pouring into the holiday, it’s no wonder modern artists have put their own spin on the holiday. Here are a couple of the popular ones for you to enjoy.
12 New Days Of An Australian Christmas – YouTube
Mariah Carey – All I Want for Christmas Is You (Make My Wish Come True Edition) – YouTube
Bing Crosby – White Christmas (1942) Original Version – YouTube