Tired of hearing the same old Christmas pop songs on repeat? Dive into the festive spirit with a fresh twist. These Christmas guitar albums by legendary guitarists deliver a blend of virtuosity and holiday cheer, perfect for musicians this festive period!
I’m a big fan of the festive period. But, if I hear Noddy Holder scream ‘it’s Chriiiiistmaaaasssss!‘ one more time on the office radio my head is going to explode… There’s only so much Wham, Mariah Carey and Band Aid that a guy can take.
Seriously, it’s the same damn 10 pop songs on repeat every single year. So to save your sanity, I’ve put together a list of 7 of the best Christmas guitar albums that you can dive into. You should also be able to pick up a few tasty licks from at the same time!
7 Best Christmas Guitar Albums
1. Merry Axemas – A Guitar Christmas
What happens when you ask 11 world-class guitarists to each cover a killer Christmas track? You get Merry Axemas, of course! Featuring incredible artists such as Eric Johnson, Jeff Beck, Steve Vai, and Joe Satriani, this album is a veritable smorgasbord of virtuoso talent!
This album is a must-listen for any guitarist looking for inspiration, as it combines festive spirit with some of the most impressive guitar playing in the genre. My personal favorite track is Steve Morse’s high-octane version of Joy to the World.
2. Al Di Meola – Winter Nights
Capturing the calm and serenity of a star-filled winter night, Al Di Meola’s album is for those after a more chilled out, jazzy Christmas vibe. In this Christmas guitar album Di Meola has teamed up with Roman Hrynkiv, a Ukrainian bandura musician, to produce an album laden with exotic sounding seasonal songs.
From the hauntingly beautiful “Ave Maria” to the playful warmth of “Carol of the Bells,” Winter Nights exudes both technical brilliance and heartfelt emotion.
3. Joe Pass – Six String Santa
A fantastic collection of some of the best loved Christmas songs by master jazz guitarist Joe Pass.
From swinging renditions of “Jingle Bells” to the tender harmonies of “Silent Night,” Six String Santa captures the holiday spirit while spotlighting Pass’s unparalleled skill and improvisational genius. It’s a must-listen for jazz lovers seeking a sophisticated seasonal soundtrack.
4. Steve Lukather – Santamental
Santamental brings a rock-infused edge to Christmas music, blending holiday classics with the virtuoso guitarist’s signature style. Featuring guest appearances from legendary musicians like Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, and Slash, the album offers a dynamic mix of soulful guitar work, jazzy grooves, and powerful rock energy.
Guitarists will especially appreciate the intricate solos, and inventive arrangements that breathe new life into tracks like “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night.”
5. Christmas With Chet Atkins
Christmas With Chet Atkins showcases the legendary guitarist’s unparalleled skill and finesse, offering a warm, intimate take on holiday classics. With his trademark fingerpicking style, Atkins transforms familiar melodies like “Silver Bells” and “Jingle Bell Rock” into rich, intricate guitar arrangements that feel both timeless and fresh.
This album is a masterclass in musicality, making it an essential listen for any guitarist seeking inspiration during the holiday season. An absolute gem, and the first album that Chet first used chordal harmonics!
6. Gary Hoey – Ho Ho Hoey
This has to be one of the best value albums in this list, as ‘Ho Ho Hoey‘ features a whopping 37 tracks! Originally recorded solely as a gift for friends, this album was so well received that Gary gave it a full worldwide release.
All tracks are high-energy, riff-laden takes on classic festive songs which are sure to spice up any slow-paced Christmas party!
Tracks like “Frosty the Snowman” and “Deck the Halls” are transformed into electrifying showcases of Hoey’s technical prowess, combining shredding solos, dynamic phrasing, and driving rhythms.
7. Brad Paisley – Christmas
Although he’s responsible for some of the most bizarre song lyrics/titles ever penned (Ode De Toilet? I’d Like To Check You For Ticks!?), Brad Paisley is one damn fine guitarist. Throughout Christmas, Paisley reimagines classics like “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells” alongside original tracks that showcase his technical brilliance.
It’s probably a good thing that the majority of this Christmas guitar album is covers. There isn’t much opportunity for him to start singing about how he wants to grab Santa’s sack, or something similarly peculiar. There is this though…
Although, in saying that, once you get “James Penguin” stuck in your head there’s no escaping that absolute earworm!
Other Articles You May Enjoy
