‘The First Lady of Song’ got her reputation by using her peerless voice and admirable range to interpret the widest repertoire of styles imaginable. Applying that talent to traditional Christmas material, in 1967 Fitzgerald delivered one of the finest albums ever recorded of holiday cheer. In her hands, Christmas standards such as “Away In A Manager,” “We Three Kings” and “Silent Night” are transformed into heavily stylized, artistically resonant performances that add a personal touch to songs sung the world over. With a stellar chorus providing the backdrop, Fitzgerald tears into “O Holy Night,” “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” and especially “Joy To The World” with excitement, as the backing band makes an operatic stand,. Her jazz background inspired her to find fresh interpretations that lend an emotional power to the beautifully measured melodies of “The First Noel” and “O Come All Ye Faithful.” It is our great fortune to have for posterity and annual enjoyment these essential recordings from a true American treasure.