Christmas Portrait
The Carpenters · 1978
69 min · 21 tracks · easy listening · adult contemporary music
A warm tapestry of classic holiday melodies woven with the Carpenters' signature harmonies and lush arrangements.
Why this album works
'Christmas Portrait' is significant for its enduring popularity during the holiday season, often topping Christmas music charts and becoming a staple in American households. The album's blend of traditional carols and original compositions showcases the duo's ability to reinterpret timeless songs, influencing countless artists who followed in their wake.
- Career context
- Released in 1978, 'Christmas Portrait' marked The Carpenters' first full-length holiday album, following their commercially successful period in the early '70s. At this stage, they were solidifying their legacy as one of the definitive pop duos of the decade, known for their rich vocal harmonies and poignant arrangements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Cher· Prince· Harry Nilsson· No Doubt· Sparks· Donna Summer· Willie Nelson· Elvis Presley
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 It Came Upon a Midnight Clear 0:41
- 2 Overture: Happy Holiday / The First Noel / March of the Toys / Little Jesus / I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus / O Little Town of Bethlehem / In Dulce Jubilo / Gesu Bambino / Angels We Have Heard on High 8:15
- 3 An Old-Fashioned Christmas 2:12
- 4 Christmas Waltz 2:13
- 5 Sleigh Ride 2:39
- 6 It's Christmas Time 2:53
- 7 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Standout 3:54
- 8 Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town 1:05
- 9 Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) 3:39
- 10 Carol of the Bells 1:39
- 11 Merry Christmas Darling Standout 3:07
- 12 Christ Is Born 3:13
- 13 O Holy Night Standout 3:09
- 14 Home for the Holidays 2:36
- 15 Medley: Here Comes Santa Claus / Frosty the Snowman / Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer / Good King Wenceslas 3:42
- 16 Winter Wonderland / Silver Bells / White Christmas 5:28
- 17 Ave Maria 2:35
- 18 Selections from 'The Nutcracker': Overture Miniature / Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy / Trepak / Valse Des Fleurs 5:27
- 19 Little Altar Boy 3:43
- 20 I'll Be Home for Christmas 3:49
- 21 Silent Night 3:21
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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