Back

Explore every episode of the podcast Tinsel Tunes - The Christmas Music Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for Tinsel Tunes - The Christmas Music Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

Rows per page:

1–50 of 83

TitlePub. DateDuration
86: Mele Kalikimaka23 Feb 202600:50:49

For the first episode of 2026, Duane and Scott discuss the song "Mele Kalikimaka".

Here's the documentary called "Brenda Lee: Rockin' Around" that listener Pandy told us about.

These are the two versions that listener Pandy sent us of I Saw Three Ships: The first is from Maddy Prior & the Carnival Band and the second is John Renbourn of Pentangle.

If you'd like to submit versions of "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" for our March episode, please use this Google Form.

Versions of "Mele Kalikimaka" played in this episode:

08 - Santa Claus is Coming to Town (re upload of deleted episode)18 Jan 202600:20:44

This is a re upload of a deleted episode.

This was originally uploaded back in Dec 2018, but to due to copywrite claims was taken down by the host provider.



85: Happy New Year 2026 - Fan Driven Year10 Jan 202600:05:58

Happy New Year everyone!!

Duane here for a short episode where I reveal the new listener-led concept for Tinsel Tunes 2026.

This listener-led season puts Christmas music fans in control, from song choices to monthly themes and special guest episodes. Your voice helps shape the year ahead.

Google form link for submissions https://forms.gle/j51mso27RKyV36rq9


84: We Wish You a Merry Christmas17 Dec 202500:44:53

For the final episode of 2025, Duane and Scott discuss the song "We Wish You a Merry Christmas". They also reveal the winner of the 2025 song battle.

Check out Santa Duane and give him a follow on the socials:https://www.hawkesbaysanta.nz

Songs played in this episode:

83: Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree24 Nov 202500:40:52

This month, Scott and Duane discuss the song "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree". They also reveal the winners of each episode in the Great Tinsel Tunes Song Battle 2025 - please go vote for your champion using the poll: https://pollforall.com/pk7jyyjm

Here's the version recommended by our Welsh listener: Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree by Mel & Kim

Songs Played in this Episode:

82: The Christmas Truce27 Oct 202500:47:34

This month, Duane and Scott look at the history of the 1914 Christmas Truce and songs written about the event.

Don't forget to vote for your favorite song of the episode in The Great Tinsel Tunes Song Battle 2025.

Songs from the episode:

  1. I Saw Three Ships by Fisherman’s Friends
  1. Yorkshire Three Ships by Kate Rusby
  2. 1914 (Christmas Truce) by Elias Dummer
  3. Christmas in the Trenches by John McCutcheon
  4. Christmas Truce by Sabaton
  5. Pipes of Peace by Tim Pannell
  6. Stille Nacht (Silent Night in the original German)
  7. Christmas 1914 (No Man’s Land) by Roy Buckley
  8. All Together Now by The Farm
  9. 1914 - The Carol of Christmas by Military Voices
  10. Snoopy’s Christmas by The Royal Guardsmen
  11. 1914 by Mike Harding
81: I Saw Three Ships (with Tim Babb)28 Sep 202500:57:31

This month, Duane and Scott discuss the carol "I Saw Three Ships" with Tim Babb from the "Can't Wait for Christmas" podcast.

Don't forget to vote for your favorite song in the Great Tinsel Tunes Song Battle 2025.

Songs played in this episode:

80: Away in a Manger01 Sep 202501:01:49

This month, Duane and Scott discuss the carol "Away in a Manger" with special guest Lynnora Gilbert.

Vote for your favorite song in the Great Tinsel Tunes Song Battle 2025.

Songs played during the episode:

  1. Mueller
  2. Cradle Song
  3. Away in a Manger by King’s College Choir
  4. Away in a Manger by Christafari
  5. Away in a Manger by Phil Wickham
  6. Away in a Manger by Home Free
  7. Away in a Manger by Rob Halford
  8. Away in a Manger by 9-year-old Claire Crosby
  9. Away in a Manger by Nat King Cole
  10. Away in a Manger by Vermicide Violence
  11. Away in a Manger by James Linden Hogg
79: It Came Upon the Midnight Clear (with Brian Earl)29 Jul 202500:52:21

This month, Scott and Duane celebrate seven years of Tinsel Tunes with our very special guest, Brian Earl from the Christmas Past podcast. They each share some versions of the carol "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear".


Here's Brian's "Christmas podcast wish list" video from 2018: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fViebraVgQ


Don't forget to vote for your favorite song from this episode in the Great Tinsel Tunes Song Battle 2025: https://pollforall.com/pkd99o8n


Here are the jazz songs that listener Adam Parker recommended:


Here are the versions of "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear" that we played during the episode:

  1. Anita Bryant
  2. Hall and Oates
  3. Blackmore's Night
  4. Mormon Tabernacle Choir
  5. Sixpence None the Richer
  6. Robert Soulberg
  7. Julie Andrews
  8. Jars of Clay
  9. Lliad Jazz Orchestra
78: Jazz Christmas Music29 Jun 202500:56:12

This month, Duane and Scott explore jazz Christmas music.

Vote for your favorite song from this episode in the Great Tinsel Tunes Song Battle 2025.

Songs played in the episode:

  1. Christmastime is Here by Steve Hunter
  2. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by New York Jazz Lounge
  3. Frosty the Snowman by Erik Veldkamp
  4. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Ramsey Lewis Trio
  5. Deck the Hall by Southside Aces
  6. The Little Drummer Boy by Marcus Miller
  7. O Tannembaum by George Gee Swing Orchestra
  8. Winter Wonderland - Spyro Gyra
  9. Silver Bells by Max Abrams
  10. Jingle Bells by Diana Krall
77: Here We Come A-Wassailing28 May 202500:48:23

This month, Duane and Scott explore the song "Here We Come A-Wassailing" and the tradition of wassail.

Here's the link to the Tinsel Tunes Song Battle poll:
https://pollforall.com/plqqxw2j

Songs played in this episode:

76: Joy to the World28 Apr 202500:52:16

This month, Duane and Scott reveal the history of the hymn "Joy to the World".

Versions played in this episode:

To participate in The Great Tinsel Tunes Music Battle 2025, vote using this link: https://pollforall.com/pkvj4eyo

75: Good King Wenceslas31 Mar 202500:49:53

This month, Duane and Scott explore the history of “Good King Wenceslas”.

Versions played in the episode:

  • Blackmore’s Night
  • The Irish Rovers
  • Chris Hendricks
  • Tori Amos
  • Reggae All-Stars
  • Stan Kenton Jazz Orchestra
  • Matthew Green’s Orchestral Rainbow
  • Mannheim Steamroller
  • Odyn

Here's the link to the poll to vote for your favorite song from this episode:https://pollforall.com/p346dorm

Here’s the clip from “Love Actually”:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4-35TN6Amw

This is the 13th century spring carol “Tempus dest Floridum” that gave us the melody for Good King Wenceslas:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zv8PgukSLX0

From listener Bob in Utah, here’s the link to the Majestica album “A Christmas Carol”:
https://youtu.be/nq5No8qsowA?si=Y37SJX4F5g4w5cE4

From listener Steve Banks, here’s a the reggae playlist “Reggae Christmas Parade”:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2ZH6rGilSmg9p4VxF2ubkU?si=IMf_S2cuSGyMYHqwDxPp7Q&pi=AO2eqAlHT0SeM&nd=1&dlsi=5cc261712ab14247

74: Auld Lang Syne (Revisited)28 Feb 202500:56:10

This month, Duane and Scott discuss the history of “Auld Lang Syne”.

Here’s the poll to vote for your favorite song from this episode:
https://pollforall.com/plz67252

When Harry met Sally quote:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/auaVllEHehQ

Rod Stewart:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Al7ONqrdscY

Boney M:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlZRXFuh5_E

Home Free (Acapella):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFcSfqYqHs4

Youtuber Amy Lee:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IALSCIyUPXI

Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadians (Big Band):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ik7ktS3PqEs

Highland Saga (Celtic):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX47kd9L6oc

Fiddler’s Green (Folk Rock):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5jd3wjBJfQ

Reel Big Fish (Ska):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJEP16sH3I0

The Holophonics (Ska):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICbkmUHAKkM

The Herald’s Hymnal (Metal):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yK35pHIzVPI

A Twist of Metal (Guitar Instrumental):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOkp81P4Mj8


Die Toten Hosen (Punk):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5egd2VF5Us

Cooper Alan’s “Plead the fifth” (Parody):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uwxYkaH9ts

73: Deck the Halls16 Dec 202400:50:26

This month, Duane and Scott dive into the surprising history of "Deck the Halls".

Songs played in this episode:

Genre versions played in this episode:

72: New Music for 2024 Season04 Dec 202400:15:57

In this bonus episode, join Duane as he unwraps 8 fresh Christmas tunes for the 2024 season, spotlighting independent and lesser-known artists. Get ready to discover your next holiday favorites! 🎄🎶

Step Carse - The True Miricle of Christmas

Annie Vander - Ornamental Christmas

Laura Pursell - Three Miles from Christmas

Stella Cole - It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

Vanna and Me - Christmas Across My Mind

Alison Wahl and Brian Berggoetz - Christmas Is the Right Time for Us

Kerry Kearney - Santa’s Got a Brand-New Bag

The English Assassin - Peace at Christmas

What was Duane's favorite? What will be your new favorite?


71: You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch30 Nov 202400:46:25

This month, Scott and Duane discuss the iconic song “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”

Versions played in this episode:

  • Thurl Ravenscroft
  • Voice Play (Acapella)
  • Small Town Titans (Rock)
  • Brittany Smith (Contemporary
  • Christafariband (Reggae)
  • Famous for a Century (Metal)
  • Matt Forbes (Jazz/Crooner)
  • Darius Rucker (Country)
  • Matrtrixx (Trap)
  • Greg Kerr (Pop Punk)
  • The Holophonics (Ska)
70: O Come, All Ye Faithful27 Oct 202400:45:40

This month, Duane and Scott dive deep into the history of "O Come, All Ye Faithful".

Songs played in this episode:

  1. Freddie McGregor (Reggae)
  2. For King and Country (Acoustic)
  3. Brett Eldredge (Country)
  4. Twisted Sister (Heavy Rock)
  5. Matthew Green's Orchestral Rainbow (Rock Opera)
  6. Luther Vandross (R&B/Soul)
  7. Jigsound (Chiptune)
  8. Bad Religion (Punk Rock)
  9. Strada9 (Ska)
  10. City High (Hip Hop)

We didn't play this one, but Duane wanted to include Olivia Newton John's "reimagined" version.

69: Christmas with The Fizz29 Sep 202401:10:53

Scott and Duane are joined by Adam Parker from the Merry Britsmas podcast to listen to the 2018 album "Christmas with The Fizz".


68: 80s Cartoon Character Christmas Albums26 Aug 202401:15:15

This month, Gerry Davila from The Totally Rad Christmas Podcast joins Duane and Scott to discuss Christmas albums from 1980s cartoon character properties.

Songs/Albums played:

  1. Strawberry Shortcake - Christmas Album, KidStuff Records, 1981
  2. A Pink Panther Christmas, KidStuff Records, 1981
  3. Pac-Man Christmas Album, KidStuff Records, 1982
  4. A Care Bears Christmas, KidStuff Records, 1982
  5. Merry Christmas With The Smurfs, Polygram Records, 1983
  6. A Cabbage Patch Christmas, Parker Brothers Music, 1984
  7. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLreHEyGJh3_MdLrm-K9dqWAiy_JrO0TTc
  8. Christmas With The California Raisins, Priority Records, 1988
67: Metal and Heavy Rock Christmas Songs23 Jul 202401:02:27

This month, Duane and Scott review metal and heavy rock Christmas songs with special guest, listener Matt Wheeler.

Matt’s Songs

  1. Jingle Bells by Austrian Death Machine
  2. Joy to the World (Cover by Minniva feat. Orion's Reign)
  3. All I Want For Christmas Is You by Leo Moracchioli
  4. Christmas Truce by Sabaton
  5. Deck the Joy by Theocracy
  6. The Chronicles of Jacob Marley by Order of Nine

Duane’s Songs

  1. Another Rock-n-Roll Christmas by Paul Di’Anno
  2. O Holy Night by Floor Jenson
  3. We Three Kings by Rob Halford
  4. Carol of the Bells (symphonic heavy metal version) by Orion’s Reign
  5. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Charlie Parra Del Riego

Listener Songs

  1. Little Drummer Boy by Marcelo Camela
66: Summer Christmas Songs23 Jun 202400:48:53
This month, Scott and Duane listen to Christmas songs about summer and warm weather. Songs played during the episode: Summer Wonderland by Ronan Keating from Dec 2016 Christmas in Summer by Itty Bitty Beats and Suzy Cato from Nov 2019 Te Harinui - New Zealand Christmas carol, written by Willow Macky, performed by David Lyle Morris, from Nov 2013 Christmas in the Summertime by The Funky Monkeys Christmas In Summer by Teeny Tiny Stevies Christmas on the Beach by BERA from 2023 (C’mon a) Surfin’ Christmas Holiday by the Hollyberries All I Want for Christmas is a Real Good Tan by Paul Overstreet (Kenny Chesney cover) Christmas Day (I Wish I was Surfing) by Emmy the Great & Tim Wheeler Aloha Christmas by The Dukes of Surf  The Aussie Christmas Song by Batesy
65: Funny and Silly Christmas Songs31 May 202400:56:04

This month, Duane and Scott listen to funny, silly, and parody Christmas songs that were submitted by listeners. (and Duane!)


Here's the playlist of all the songs played on the episode:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCpPixJu91TQsSsv_w_-rPlslc_2gsjGP&jct=T_PnZ3PnNZJ0R2Eh8tFxUZJf0ggoHw



64: A Very First to Eleven Christmas29 Apr 202400:45:08

This month, Duane and Scott listen to the First to Eleven album “A Very First to Eleven Christmas”


Songs played:

  • The Most Wonderful time of the year 
  • All I want for christmas is you
  • Feliz Navidad
  • Underneath the tree
  • Santa tell me
  • Christmas C’mon
  • This Season
  • Rockin’ around the Christmas Tree
  • Santa Baby
  • Last Christmas
  • Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas


YouTube playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_nsU4GMbxY8_UnN59fMO5NBD8CsC0HOgvI



63: Christmas Songs About Trains17 Mar 202400:36:30

This month, Duane and Scott listen to Christmas songs about trains.

Article on the History of trains and Christmas

Songs played on this episode:

62: Angels We Have Heard on High18 Feb 202400:41:03
This month, Duane and Scott discuss the carol "Angels We Have Heard on High". Versions of the song played on this episode: Angels We Have Heard on High (fingerstyle guitar) Les Anges dans nos Campagnes (version complète) Angels from the Realms of Glory by Matthew Green’s Orchestral Rainbow Angels from the Realms of Glory, David Archuleta and the Tabernacle Choir Angels from the Realms of Glory (1967 version) Gloria (Piano version) by Hymns, Chorales & Classics On Piano Punk version by Reliant K Acapella version by Home Free Metal version by Dan Vasc Ska version by On the Upbeat Rock version by Bayside Country version by Josh Turner Chiptune version by Peter Hunter Instrumental version by the Piano Guys ​​Big Band/Rockabilly version by Brian Setzer Orchestra
61: New Christmas Music for 202314 Dec 202300:34:50
This month, Duane and Scott listen to some new (and new to them) Christmas Music submitted to them by artists in 2023. Songs played: 1. Jingle Punx punk cover of Last Christmas by Wham: https://jinglepunx.bandcamp.com/track/last-christmas-wham-cover 2. Christmas Cheer by Rob Lawlor: https://robertlawlor.bandcamp.com/track/christmas-cheer 3. Santa's Takin' Over the Town by Rehya Stevens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQfo7ek8Kws https://rehyastevens.com 4. Recipe for a Merry Christmas Eve by Alicia Stockman: https://aliciastockman.bandcamp.com/track/recipe-for-a-merry-christmas-eve https://aliciastockman.com/recipe-epk 5. Christmastime in Maine by Kevin Scott Hall and Judy Pancoast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_caQzjJySyo https://open.spotify.com/track/0qEaAJp6TKdYcpB1MfwmHA 6. Oh Chanukah by Sukey Malloy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOkkLXkk6Ks https://www.sukeymolloy.com/shop/sukey-music/ 7. Ugly Sweater Time by The Sweaterettes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjE6GNepR-o https://thesweaterettes.hearnow.com/ugly-sweater-time https://www.instagram.com/uglysweaterpartyla/ 8. O Come, O Come, Emanuel by Joe Beier: https://joebeier.bandcamp.com/track/o-come-o-come-emanuel 9. What's a Christmas Eve Without My Baby? by Lee Langdon: https://leelangdonmusic.bandcamp.com/track/whats-a-christmas-eve-without-my-baby https://linktr.ee/leelangdon 10. Christmas Wish by Gregory Porter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHIwCTLe_ns
60: It Came Upon the Midnight Clear30 Nov 202300:45:55
This month, Duane and Scott look at the carol "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear". Songs played in this episode: Choral version by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Noel version by St Michael's Singers Orchestral version by The London Symphony Orchestra Barbershop version by Julien Neel Acapella by Home Free Reggae version by CHRISTAFARI Country version by Highway 101 Hard Rock version by The Beautiful Distortion Chiptune version by MixSound Solo guitar instrumental by R.L. Solberg Duet version by The Hound and the Fox For copyright reasons, we couldn't play these versions, but you should definitely check them out: Ella Fitzgerald Anne Murray Frank Sinatra Johnny Mathis Burl Ives Josh Groban
59: What's This?29 Oct 202300:55:50
This month, Duane and Scott review the song "What's This?" from the Nightmare Before Christmas with special guest Jack Ford from the Total Christmas Podcast. Songs played: What's This? (Official Soundtrack Version) "The Simpsons" theme song “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” by Tchaikovsky Pirates of Penzance Love Shack by the B-52’s Danny Elfman sings "What's This?" live at Lincoln Center Fall Out Boy (from Nightmare Revisited) Other versions of "What's This?" that were played: Orchestral version by Orchestre philharmonique de Radio France Acapella by Voiceplay Rock by NateWantsToBattle Solo Piano by Natalya Plays Piano Ukelele by Thomas Benjamin Wild Metal by Lauren Babic Jazz by Disney Dave Club remix by FThisRemix Female singer by Caroline Makes Music Chiptune by Professor Shyguy
58: Miss Fogerty's Christmas Cake29 Sep 202301:09:09
This month, Duane and Scott do something a little different and talk to Glen Warren from the Seasons Eatings podcast about a food-related song called "Miss Fogerty's Christmas Cake". Versions played on this episode: The McNulty Family The Irish Rovers William Brady Wolfetones Sharon Lois and Bram – Canadian Children’s Entertainers Rum Ragged – Newfoundland band Clinton Ford Fire in the Glen Ruby Murray – Miss O’Leary’s Irish Fruit Cake David Jones Folk songs out of Wisconsin - 1941 - Lewis Moody Trinity Cake by Allan Mills
57: O Little Town of Bethlehem30 Aug 202300:50:45

Duane and Scott discuss the carol "O Little Town of Bethlehem".

Versions of the song played on this episode:

56: Jingle Bell Rock30 Jul 202300:58:05
This month, Duane, Scott, and special guest Todd Killian (from Christmas Clatter) discuss the song "Jingle Bell Rock". Versions of the song played on this episode: Bobby Helms (1957 version) Bobby Helms (1970 version) Brenda Lee Thousand Foot Krutch Randy Travis Kenny G Hall & Oates The Ventures Brian Setzer Mister Chicken (rubber chicken style) Trap Music Now (trap) Billy Idol (rock) First to Eleven (hard rock) Eddie Lovette (reggae) The Holophonics (ska) Chiptune & 8bit Planet (chiptune) Skyway Avenue (pop punk) Straight No Chaser (acapella)
55: SingIt Live (Their Christmas Album)01 Jul 202301:13:35

This month, Duane and Scott review the 2022 Christmas album by the Youtube artists "SingIt Live". Check out the whole playlist.

Songs played in this episode:

Special thanks to SingIt Live for letting us use their music for this episode. Check them out on all the major streaming platforms!

54: Santa Baby31 May 202300:49:30
In this episode, Scott and Duane take a deep dive into the song 1953 "Santa Baby". Songs played in this episode: Santa Baby by Eartha Kitt (1953 version) Philip Springer playing and singing his original version Madonna - Santa Baby (1987) Eartha Kitt - Santa Baby (1960 version) Mae West - Santa Baby (1966) LeAnn Rimes - Santa Baby (2004) Taylor Swift - Santa Baby (2007) Kellie Pickler - Santa Baby (2007) Shakira - from 2009 NBC Special "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" Kylie Minogue - Santa Baby (2010) Kelly Clarkson - Santa Baby (2021) Michael Bublé - Santa Baby (2011) Everclear - Santa Baby (1997) Ska version by Ska-J Rock Version by First to Eleven (2018) Reggae Version by Deynque Barbershop Quartet Version by Fiveways Barbershop Quartet Chiptune Version by Scarlet Lotus
53: The Christmas Music of Johnny Marks29 Apr 202300:44:50

This month, Duane and Scott explore the Christmas music written by the prolific songwriter Johnny Marks.

Songs played in the episode:

  1. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Julien Neel
  2. Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree performed by Julia & Jack
  3. A Holly Jolly Christmas performed by The Quinto Sisters
  4. Silver & Gold performed by The Ophelias
  5. I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day performed by Smalltown Poets
  6. When Santa Claus Gets Your Letter performed by Anne Lloyd, Michael Stewart, & The Sandpipers
  7. The Night Before Christmas Song performed by Rosemary Clooney and Gene Autry
  8. Everyone's a Child at Christmas performed by Gene Autry (Not played during episode but here for reference)
  9. A Merry, Merry Christmas to You performed by Art Mooney
  10. The Santa Claus Parade performed by The Little Angels
  11. A Caroling We Go performed by Musical Monkeys
52: Ska Christmas Music12 Mar 202300:41:25

Scott and Duane are finally back at it! This month, we're discussing ska Christmas music.

Songs played during the episode:

Joy to the World by the O.C. Supertones

The Difference Between Ska, Rocksteady, and Reggae Guitar - Guitar Lesson

Christmas Feeling Ska by Toots & the Maytals

Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer by Reel Big Fish

Jingle Bell Rock by The Holophonics

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Every Day Will Be Like a Holiday by The New Limits

White Christmas by The Penguins Ska Band

Jingle Bells by the Fayetteville Ska Alliance

Silent Night by Skayway

Christmas Wrapping by Slow Gherkin

Follow That Ska by Baked a la Ska

Snow Miser/Heat Miser by Skatune Network

This Christmas by the Cascadians

Holiday Road by the Aquabats


If you would like to donate to cyclone relief efforts in New Zealand, you can do so here: 

https://www.hawkesbayfoundation.org.nz/cyclone-relief-fund


51: The Christmas Song19 Dec 202200:40:07

Scott and Duane discuss Nat King Cole's beloved song "The Christmas Song".

Cole's Versions we played:

Notable Versions we played:

Genre versions we played:

Podcast Preview: Christmas Morning (with The Little Drummer Boy song battle)16 Dec 202200:24:47

As some of you may know, I host another podcast called "Christmas Morning" with Brandon Gray from "Deck the Hallmark".  Our show is a weekly celebration of Christmas, including news, jokes, days until Christmas countdown, and TV listings.  What may be of interest to Tinsel Tunes listeners is the Christmas music battle we do at the end of each episode where we compete to bring the best version of a given song by an independent artist on BandCamp.com. I'm including one episode of Christmas Morning here in the Tinsel Tunes feed because we'd love to have you over there. (If this isn't your thing, no worries! I won't be including any more of these here) You can find out more information about the show at christmasmorningpodcast.com.  I hope you enjoy it!

Here's the link to vote on the music battle: https://pollforall.com/pkvpm6dx

50: It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year22 Nov 202200:46:50

Scott and Duane discuss Andy Williams' beloved song "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" from 1963.

Notable versions we played:

  • Andy Williams
  • Andy Wiliams and Kathy Triccoli
  • Johnny Mathis
  • Harry Connick, Jr.
  • Barry Manillow
  • Kylie Minogue
  • Idina Menzel
  • Cliff Richard

Genre versions of the song we played:

  • Celtic Thunder (Celtic)
  • Brian Setzer Orchestra (Big Band)
  • Pentatonix (Acapella)
  • Brett Eldridge (Country)
  • Ainsworth Rose (Reggae)
  • Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh (Punk)
  • Classless Act (Rock)
  • First to Eleven (Hard Rock)
  • Beegie Adair (Jazz)

Silly versions of the song we played:

  • Nasal Recorder (Nose Flute)
  • MDRN (Dubstep Remix)
  • Raxlen Slice (Chiptune)
  • Adam LeFebvre (Barbershop Quartet)
  • Gonzo and Rizzo from 2006 A Green and Red Christmas (Muppets)

Here's the Staples "Back to School" commercial referenced in the episode.

49: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen31 Jul 202200:35:46

This month, Jay and Scott take a deep dive into the song "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen".

Songs played on this episode:

  1. Bach Choir
  2. Rondo Arrangement for Fortepiano
  3. The Choir Singers (from 1917)
  4. Nat King Cole
  5. Bing Crosby
  6. Ella Fitzgerald
  7. Perry Como
  8. Barenaked Ladies with Sarah McLachlan
  9. Metal: August Burns Red
  10. Irish Folk: The Irish Rovers
  11. Chiptune: Scunison
  12. Punk: The Myrrdurers
  13. Acapella: Pentatonix
  14. Parody: The Restroom Door Said Gentlemen by Bob Rivers
  15. Country: The Petersens
  16. Rock: First to Eleven
  17. Ska: Fayetteville Ska Alliance
  18. Dubstep/Trap: Skullee
  19. Reggae: The Reggae All-stars


Here's the episode of The Sopranos that Jay mentioned.


48: Boogie Woogie Christmas (with Duane!)29 Jun 202201:01:14

For half-Christmas, we have a special guest, Duane Bailey, on to discuss the 2002 album "Boogie Woogie Christmas" by the Brian Setzer Orchestra.

Songs from this episode:

  1. Jingle Bells
  2. Boogie Woogie Santa Claus
  3. Winter Wonderland
  4. Blue Christmas
  5. Santa Claus is Back in Town
  6. Baby It’s Cold Outside
  7. The Nutcracker Suite
  8. The Man with the Bag
  9. Sleigh Ride
  10. So They Say It’s Christmas
  11. O Holy Night
  12. The Amens
  13. Let it Snow
  14. Run Rudolph Run
  15. What Are You Doin’ New Year’s Eve
  16. Cactus Christmas
  17. Santa Drives a Hot Rod
  18. Christmas Island
47: The Little Drummer Boy31 May 202200:50:47

In this episode, Jay and Scott discuss the history of "The Little Drummer Boy" and also go deep into the Bing Crosby/David Bowie duet. They even dig up obscure versions of the song by Ringo Starr, Jimi Hendrix, and more.

Check out the hilarious Saturday Night Live spoof of the Crosby/Bowie duet with Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly.

Versions of the song played in this episode:

  1. Julie Andrews Patapan (1975)
  2. Trapp Family Singers (1951)
  3. Jack Holloran Singers (1957)
  4. Harry Simone Chorale (1958)
  5. Bing Crosby and David Bowie (1977)
  6. Perry Como (1968)
  7. Jimi Hendrix (1969)
  8. Ray Charles (1985)
  9. Ringo Starr (1999)
  10. The Kings Singers (2013)
  11. Leslie Odom Jr. feat. Mzansi Youth Choir (2020)
  12. Hip-hop version by Lauryn Hill (1999)
  13. Jazz version by Dave Koz (2001)
  14. Country version by Toby Keith (2007)
  15. Jamaican Drummer Boy (Reggae version) by Shaggy (2011)
  16. Punk version by Sean Quigley (2011)
  17. Ska version by Reel Big Fish (2014)
  18. Acoustic version by Justin Gambino (2015)
  19. Chiptune version by Sara Lopez (2018)
  20. Metal version by Ben Dixon (2019)
  21. African Tribal Style by Alex Boye ft. Genesis Choir 2015
46: The Twelve Days of Christmas03 May 202200:44:52

In this month's episode, we discuss the origins and history of the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas". 

Check out this Snopes article that fact checks the theory that there is are secret, coded Christian references in the song.

Versions played in this episode:

  1. Portland Choir and Orchestra
  2. Perry Como
  3. Roger Whittaker
  4. John Denver and the Muppets
  5. Ray Conniff Singers
  6. Straight No Chaser
  7. Pentatonix
  8. Jacob Miller (reggae style) 
  9. Mob Vibe (trap style)
  10. Relient K (pop/punk style)
  11. Sara Evans (country style)
  12. Goldfinger (ska/punk style)

Parody versions played:

  1. Twisted Sister
  2. Bob and Doug McKenzie
  3. Allan Sherman
  4. Bob Rivers (The Twelve Pains of Christmas)
  5. Jeff Foxworthy (The Twelve Redneck Days of Christmas)
44: Jingle Bells27 Feb 202200:50:01

This month, Jay and Scott dive deep into the history of "Jingle Bells".

Songs Featured in this Episode:

  1. Tom Rouch
  2. The Edison Male Quartet
  3. Benny Goodman Orchestra
  4. Glenn Miller Orchestra
  5. Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters
  6. Les Paul
  7. Don Charles (Dogs Barking Jingle Bells)
  8. Gemini 6 Broadcast from Space
  9. Dean Martin
  10. Frank Sinatra
  11. Ella Fitzgerald
  12. Michael Bublé
  13. Don Carlos and Glenice Spencer
  14. Sex Pistols
  15. The Ventures
  16. The Brian Setzer Orchestra
  17. Gwen Stefani
  18. Barbra Streisand
  19. Smokey Robinson and The Miracles
  20. Dolly Parton
  21. Johnny Cash
  22. Straight No Chaser


43: Snoopy's Christmas27 Jan 202200:36:29

This week, Jay and Scott listen to and discuss the song “Snoopy’s Christmas” by The Royal Guardsmen.


Songs Featured in this Episode:

Snoopy’s Christmas by the Royal Guardsmen

The Story of Snoopy's Christmas (Intro)

Snoopy vs. The Red Baron

Squeaky vs. The Black Knight

Return of the Red Baron


Cover songs featured in the episode:

Smash Mouth

Nothin' Fancy

The Hainings

Sonic's Christmas by ChadGhostal1995

Crisis Crayons

Fogbone

James Beck

Jingle Punx

Rich Chambers

42 - Silent Night (and a special surprise!)07 Dec 202100:59:10

Hello everyone! This month, we will look at the song "Silent Night" with Scott and Jay from the Jingle Jank Podcast. Make sure you listen to the whole episode for a very special surprise!

Here are the versions of "Silent Night" we played in this episode:

  1. Matthew Green's Orchestral Rainbow
  2. Stevie Nicks
  3. Boyz II Men
  4. Bing Crosby
  5. Elvis Presley
  6. Andy Williams
  7. The Temptations
  8. The Carpenters
  9. Mariah Carey
  10. Josh Groban
  11. Michael Bublé
  12. Justin Bieber
  13. Kelly Clarkson (feat. Trisha Yearwood & Reba McEntire)
  14. Pentatonix
  15. Deliverance
  16. The Impressions
  17. Kylydian
  18. Huey "Piano" Smith
  19. John Denver and the Muppets
40 - It's a Country Christmas27 Sep 202100:44:22

In this episode, we'll look at some favorite Country Christmas Songs from our listeners and some other Christmas Podcast hosts. This episode is filled to the brim with music!

This episode's top 5 list comes from long time listener Liz Asphodel, and we'll find out what her 5 favorite Country Christmas songs are as I'll read out what these songs mean to her.

After that we'll hear no less than 12 songs that listeners, hosts, and I like. We'll close out the episode with another chapter of "The Christmas Carol" recorded from vinyl.

Liz's list:

5. It Must Have Been the Mistletoe (Barbara Mandrell 1983)
4. Blue Christmas Lights (Buck Owens and His Buckaroos 1965)
3. Happier Holidays (Sarah Morris 2018)
2. If We Make it Through December (Merle Haggard 1973)
1. Honky Tonk Christmas (Alan Jackson 1993)
Honorable Mention: Please, Daddy, Don't Get Drunk This Christmas (John Denver 1975)

Other Songs Featured:

Scott Leopold, Holly Jolly X'masu podcast:
Red Sovine - Billy's Christmas Wish (Faith In Santa)
B2 (Christmas With Red Sovine)

Gerry Davilla, Totally Rad Christmas podcast:
Willie Nelson - Pretty Paper
Kenny and Dolly - Winter Wonderland

Tim Babb, Can’t wait for Christmas podcast:
Kenny Rogers - Children, Go Where I Send Thee (feat. Home Free)

Alonso Duralde, author of Have yourself a movie little Christmas:
Tennessee Ernie Ford

Listener Brian McGlin:
Christmas in Dixie by Alabama

Todd Killian from Christmas Clatter podcast:
Merry Christmas From The Family by Montgomery Gentry

39 - Once in Royal David's City26 Aug 202100:24:17

Hi listeners and welcome to Season 4, episode 1.In this episode, we'll recap the past month as a bit has happened. We'll also deep dive in to the song "Once in a Royal David's City". I ask for help with next month's episode and get to listen to another chapter on The Christmas Carol from vinyl. 

Links to music used in the episode:

Kings College Cambridge 2018
Kings College Cambridge 2008
Mathew Green's Orchestral Rainbow version

38 - Up on the House Top24 Jul 202100:22:35

Welcome to July's episode! In this episode, I'll talk about the song "Up on the House Top". We'll take a quick listen to a listener's suggestion from last month's song, "The Friendly Beasts". We touch on an idea for next month's 3rd birthday episode. We close the episode out with another snippet of The Christmas Carol as recorded from vinyl.

37 - The Friendly Beasts24 May 202100:19:11

Hi listeners! Just a short episode this month. In this episode, we'll look at one of the oldest Christmas songs, "The Friendly Beasts". We'll also listen to chapter two of the "A Christmas Carol" record from my collection.

© My Podcast Data · Independent project · Data from Apple & Spotify
AboutMethodologyContactSupport mePrivacy PolicyLegal Notice