As the holiday season approaches, music enthusiasts eagerly await the perfect playlist to set the festive mood. In this exclusive interview, renowned entertainer and television host Jimmy Fallon shares his top picks for the best holiday music albums that everyone should own.

Unwrapping the Timeless Classics: Jimmy Fallon's Holiday Music Recommendations

Embracing the Wall of Sound: A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector

Fallon's first recommendation is a true classic that has stood the test of time – "A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector." Despite the controversial figure behind the production, Fallon acknowledges the album's undeniable musical brilliance. "Every year we would play that, and just listen to every single song. I almost get misty-eyed thinking about, you know, 'I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus' or 'Marshmallow World,'" he reminisces. Fallon praises the album's "layers of great music and really good singers," as well as the iconic "Wall of Sound" production that creates a truly immersive holiday experience.

Uniting the Stars: Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?"

Another iconic holiday track that holds a special place in Fallon's heart is Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?" He recalls the excitement of purchasing the single as a young music enthusiast, treating it with the same reverence as a new car. "I just love all the guest stars on that song, and I would prop the record up against my wall and use it as artwork, so it served two purposes," he shares. While the lyrics may raise some eyebrows, Fallon appreciates the song's ability to bring together a diverse array of musical talents to raise awareness and funds for a worthy cause.

The Soulful Sounds of Stevie Wonder: Someday at Christmas

Fallon's holiday music collection wouldn't be complete without Stevie Wonder's "Someday at Christmas." He fondly remembers discovering the album at a local drugstore, where it was priced at an unbeatable "Nice Price." The album's standout tracks, such as the title track and "What Christmas Means to Me," have become cherished staples in Fallon's holiday playlist. "When I was a kid, I used to lip sync it — Stevie Wonder would sing the song in Latin, and I would pretend to do it in front of the family, a whole skit for my parents," he recalls with a smile.

The King of Christmas: Elvis Presley's Elvis' Christmas Album

No holiday music collection would be complete without the iconic voice of Elvis Presley. Fallon's fondness for "Elvis' Christmas Album" is evident as he effortlessly belts out classic tunes like "Here Comes Santa Claus." The album's timeless appeal extends beyond its musical excellence, as Fallon shares a personal anecdote about recording his own version of "Silent Night" during a blizzard in New York City. "It actually was perfect," he says, reflecting on the serendipitous moment.

Diverse Sounds, Lasting Impressions: A Very Special Christmas

Fallon's holiday music recommendations also include the compilation album "A Very Special Christmas," which he praises for its diverse lineup of artists and the iconic Keith Haring album cover. "You got Eurythmics, I believe Whitney Houston was on that one, and it was just a great record. Again, when you bought these albums, you would listen to them until the grooves were out. So we really put our time into that one," he reminisces.

Discovering Hidden Gems: The Hotel Café presents... Winter Songs

Fallon's final recommendation is a lesser-known gem, "The Hotel Café presents... Winter Songs." This compilation album features a mix of holiday-themed tracks, including a standout contribution from Brandi Carlile. "I don't know where I got it. Someone gave it to me, or I found it at a record shop that I went to. It's just a mix tape. But young Brandi Carlile has a song called 'The Heartache Can Wait,' and it is so sad and depressing and great. It barely is a Christmas song. But I just loved it," Fallon shares, highlighting the album's ability to uncover hidden musical treasures.As the holiday season approaches, Fallon's curated list of must-have albums offers a diverse and timeless selection of holiday music that will undoubtedly enrich the festive experience for music enthusiasts of all ages.