Load up your Ipods...

Now that Thanksgiving is over, you are officially allowed to listen to Christmas music! Hooray!

Last year I wrote a post all about my favorite Christmas tunes, so this year's list will be an adendum to that post.

This year I want to begin with buying a cd for a cause:
I just saw a Brodway show last week (one that wasn't closed) and learned about a CD that I never knew about! Every year Broadway stars record a Christmas album for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. There are 8 out there, so make sure you check out which artists are featured. If you thought Thoroughly Modern Millie was the best thing since sliced bread, make sure you get the cd featuring Sutton Foster.

For a complete list, click here.

Every year I see these VERY SPECIAL Christmas CDs, and they stand out to me because I like Keith Haring's artwork. I looked them up just now, and learned that buying one helps the Special Olympics, also a worthy cause. For a full listing of cds available, click here. On A Very Special Christmas LIVE, you can hear two of my fave artists, Mary J and Sheryl Crow rocking around the Chrismas tree.

I know it's late coming, but there are some enjoyable tracks on the first of two Rosis O'Donnell Christmas CDS. All proceeds benefit FOR ALL KIDS FOUNDATION.

Going Green? Check out Barenaked Ladies' Green Christmas (it has little, if nothing to do with being eco-friendly, but the title works)!

Albums or tracks of these albums to check out:
Blind Boys of Alabama: Go Tell it on the Mountain

Bette Midler: Cool Yule (for the headwear alone). Tracks to check out: 2, 4, 7 and 9. My opp is that Bette does upbeat best.

Josh Groban: Noel (for you Josh fans)

I am also considering purchasing the Rockette's Christmas Spectacular, since that is where my family will be on Christmas Eve! Just one of the many surprises I have up my sleeve this Holiday season.

Sick of the Messiah? Well, you shouldn't be, but if you are hungering for a different instrumental album, try the Nutcracker or Vince Guaraldi Trio Christmas tunes (found in those crazy Peanuts Gang cartoons).

Gospel Choir:
I am on the hunt for the best Gospel songs. So far I have found:
Christmas Negro Spirituals by New Orleans St. Peter's Gospel Choir...listening makes me feel like I am on the front row....I like it. Go Tell It on the Mountain and Joy to the World. So far, I am only finding it on itunes.

I also love the Georgia Mass Choir singing Joy to the World with Whitney Houston on her ONE WISH album.

Anyone else found some gems?