Your Favorite Christmas Tunes were Written by Jews

Did you know that many of the most  beloved Christmas tunes were written by, well, Jews? When I was growing up, a Jewish kid in a religious school in Ottawa, we weren’t allowed to listen or partake in any Christmas festivities. But the songs were omnipresent. You heard them everywhere, on the radio, tv, in the department stores. And they were lovely.

In 1990 I was on sabbatical at the University of Toronto. The Dean Norm Levine asked me to accompany (on piano) the Christmas carrolers from the Faculty. “What would my Mom say?” I asked Norm. “And who do you think is asking you to perform?” was his retort. Needless to say a good time was had by all (and yes I did feel just a bit guilty enjoying myself).

Chestnuts Roasting on an open fire? Co-written by Mel Torme.

According to Nate Bloom who has done a great job chronicling the role of the Jews (see for example this recent article), Jews wrote the music, lyrics or both to many of the most popular Christmas tunes, including all the songs in this book. Another article of Nate’s is here for you to enjoy.

So now when I hear and enjoy these wonderful songs, what can I say?

I don’t feel that guilty after all. And if you’re Christian and a little queasy that your favorite Christmas songs were written by people outside the faith, just remember. Jesus was Jewish too! Happy holidays to all!

Not to mention, “Santa Baby”, perhaps the sexiest Santa Song to decorate the tree.

And this new cover of my fav

more here:

10 Christmas songs written by Jews

and here:

https://www.newsweek.com/best-christmas-songs-were-actually-written-jews-758528