Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas has a quick reminder for anyone that might be looking for some musical Christmas spirit (even though it's the middle of March) - the Sounds of Christmas station is still on!

Listen to the Sounds of Christmas station: https://www.soundsofchristmas.com/listen-now.html

Find the Sounds of Christmas podcast: https://linktr.ee/socmusic

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Gerry D from the Totally Rad Christmas about their experiences using the much-talked-about Artificial Intelligence chatbot ChatGPT. They talk about things the AI got factually wrong, some of which seem almost eerily human, and Gerry shares how he uses it for work and for his podcast. And can relates a particular experience where the AI seemed to lie to him, and then lie about lying.

Find Gerry's Totally Radio Christmas everywhere - https://linktr.ee/totallyradchristmas

Some available info on Kagny and the Dirty Rays - https://www.discogs.com/release/1738820-Kagny-The-Dirty-Rats-Kagny-The-Dirty-Rats

Christmas music blog posts in the styles of Stephen King and Jerry Seinfeld - https://www.soundsofchristmas.com/news/chatgpt-blog-posts

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas revisits Christmas music at the Grammys, and then takes a look at Christmas music at the Academy Awards!

Ken Kessler talks about a computer programmer's blog, logging what a traditional radio station played last year in November and December, compared to what was played on the Sounds of Christmas station.

Matthew J. Fitzgerald's blog - https://mfitz.net/a-tale-of-187-christmas-songs-how-i-logged-nearly-every-song-on-chicagos-christmas-station/

Sounds of Christmas Linktree - https://linktr.ee/socmusic

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas is joined by Sarah and Kristin with their lists of singers and bands that they WISH would put out Christmas music. It should be noted that no one on this podcast has any inside info - this is all just a fun wishlist of Christmas music they'd like to hear and share with you next season!

Find Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Spirit_Xmas

Find Kristin and her podcast: https://holidaysafterdark.com/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the legacy of Jeff Beck, who may not have left us much Christmas music, but he was a legendary artist who did leave us an amazing catalog of music, and who worked with (and influenced) a staggering number of singers and bands!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas highlights segments from earlier podcasts, where artists talk about the possibility of releasing more Christmas music (possibly next year)!

MIke's Patreon Page - https://www.patreon.com/snowinsouthtown
Jane Monheit - https://www.janemonheitonline.com/store/p/the-merriest
Trans-Siberian Orchestra - https://www.trans-siberian.com
Grant Maloy Smith - https://www.grant-maloy-smith.com/christmas
Rhonda Burchmore and Jack Earle - https://snd.click/RB-SwinginXmas
Cliff Beach - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cliffbeach1/jingle-bells
Sarah Partridge - https://www.sarahpartridge.com/a-partridge-in-a-pear-tree/
Blane Howard - https://lnk.to/ChristmasInTheCar
KEITH - https://keithband.com/christmas-magic/
Bob Sirois - https://bobsiroismusic.com
Kristin Amarie and David Lanz - https://kristinamarie.eu/music-store
The Stephens - https://thestephens.bandcamp.com/releases
All Star Kid - https://allstarkid.com
Michael Brandmeier - https://snd.click/aayw
Guy Maeda - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/guymaeda/the-magic-of-the-season
Suzanne's Band - https://suzannesband.com
Michael Sinatra - https://www.michaelsinatra.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the musical side of "The Night Before Christmas"!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to JJ from Christmas Music News (link below), who annually tracks all of the major new Christmas music releases each year. They talk about some of JJ's favorites from this season, as well as some of the biggest surprises. They also tease a couple of possible releases for 2023!

JJ's Christmas Music News on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NewXmasMusic

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Guy Maeda about his new Christmas single "The Magic Of The Season"! They also talked about Guy's work as a background singer in a long list of very popular movies (Top Gun: Maverick, Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness and all three Santa Clause movies)! Plus, Guy teased that next year he plans to re-released his 1990s album A Froggy Christmas, featuring Christmas songs "performed" by frogs!

Guy's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@pianolightmusic2379

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/composer Kristin Amare and new age instrumentalist David Lanz about their Christmas music collaborations, including their album Forever Christmas and their new singles, "Mary, Did You Know" and "Silent Night". They also share a glimpse of some of their projects for 2023!

Kristin's website: https://kristinamarie.eu

David's website: https://davidlanz.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to folk new age guitarist about his new Christmas album, his fifth, Twilight, The Magic Of Christmas.  They also talk about his journey from playing guitar in a rock band to John Denver's influence, which led him to a four-album deal (all Christmas albums). Bob also shares the story of how he actually connected with John Denver's family, and was invited to perform with members of John's original band. And he talks about how different the new album is from everything he's previously done (including his cover of the Snow Miser/Heat Miser song)!

Bob's website: https://bobsiroismusic.com/

Bob's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@bobsirois6678

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Mark Winter about his new single "Christmas In The Air" (which also features his friend Britt Savage, who won Star Search in 1992). Mark also talks about his former band, Ilusion, a couple of firsts he's had in his career (including Roller Disco and Musical Greeting Cards) and his attempt to write the official state song for New Jersey! Mark also shares details about his Pet Podcasts, which reach millions all over the world!

Mark's website: https://wintertainment.com/markwintermusic/

Mark's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@markiac

Pet Life Radio: https://petliferadio.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Michael Brandmeier about his Christmas music, particularly the new single "I See An Angel" (and the story behind it). Michael also shares some details about the book he's writing, inspired by the song and the original event.

Michael's website: https://michaelbrandmeier.com/

Michael's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@silenthwk

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Bonnie and Diane from KEITH (aka the KEITH Band). They talked about some of the performers KEITH has opened for, including Sam & Dave, Mel Tillis and the Steve Miller Band! They also talked about their trips to the Grammys in support of one of their albums and one of their singles. And they talked about the new single, "Christmas Magic". They also talked about more Christmas music that's on the way!

KEITH's website: https://keithband.com

KEITH's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/keithbandhome

KEITH's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/thekeithband

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Country singer Blane Howard about his new album Christmas In The Car. They also talked about his wedding gift to his wife, which became a viral sensation. They talked about his football songs, one of which became an anthem for the Kansas City Chiefs! And they talked about what led him to record a Christmas album, and the inspiration behind many of the songs he recorded.

Blane's website: https://blanehoward.com

Blane's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BlaneHowardCountry

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to healthy living expert Dr. Fab Mancini about Christmas music haters. They talk about all the stories that come out at this time every year about lists and surveys of the most disliked, or even most hated, Christmas songs, and the reasons why some people feel that way about the music most of the people who listen to this podcast (and the Sounds of Christmas station) love so very much! And Dr. Mancini offers some advice for anyone that loves Christmas music but also has Christmas music haters in their life!

Dr. Fab Mancini's website: https://drfabmancini.com

Dr. Fab Mancini's free gift: https://fabsfreegift.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to jazz singer and actress Sarah Partridge about her role in Risky Business (with Tom Cruise), her karaoke performance that launched her music career and her album with Janis Ian. She also talks about her Beautiful Minds album, which celebrated amazing women in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. And, of course, they talked about her Christmas album, and her approach to recording Christmas standards alongside a couple of contemporary songs that are on their way to becoming standards.

Sarah's website: https://www.sarahpartridge.com

Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahpartridgejazzvocalist/

Sarah's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@SarahPartridgeJazz

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Matt Molnar about a bunch of his projects, including his children's books (one about buzzards and one about a bear), his other music projects and his album "Some Christmas Songs". Matt talks about the process he went through to come up with fresh takes on some classic Christmas songs, while staying true to the iconic performers who originally recorded them. He also talks about the plans he has for a follow-up Christmas collection, which we could see next year.

Matt's website: https://quirkybirdrecords.com/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to R&B singer/songwriter Cliff Beach about his new Christmas single, an a cappella version of "Jingle Bells". They also talk about last year's Christmas album, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and the possibility of even more new Christmas music in the future. And they talked about the amazing year Cliff has had with his podcast, his tour, his other music releases, his book and his work on Josh Gates Tonight!

Get Cliff's version of "Jingle Bells": https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cliffbeach1/jingle-bells

Check out his album Merry Christmas, Happy New Year: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/cliffbeach1/merry-christmas-happy-new-year

Check out his book Side Hustle & Flow: https://a.co/d/dyLGble

Cliff's radio show: https://www.thesocalsound.org/programs/deeper-grooves/

Cliff's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@cliffbeachmusic

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Anthony and Ryan from the Movin' Right Along podcast (from ToughPigs.com). They talk about "The Muppet Christmas Carol" which turns 30 this year! They talk about the music, and the song from Martina McBride that should have been a hit. They also talk about what the Movin' Right Along podcast has learned by talking about this movie two minutes at a time. They also talk about Michael Caine, who was the perfect Ebeneezer Scrooge for this film. And they touch on Emmett Otter and some other Muppet Christmas projects.

Tough Pigs website: https://toughpigs.com

Movin' Right Along podcast: https://toughpigs.com/category/podcasts/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Australian entertainer Rhonda Burchmore and big band leader Jack Earle about their latest collaboration - "A Red Hot Swingin' Christmas"! They talk about some of the songs they chose to record, including a song Dean Martin recorded almost seventy years ago that almost no one has covered since! Plus, they also recorded a big band version of Slade's "Merry Xmas Everybody"! Rhonda and Jack also talk about the tour they're currently on, their next projects and plans, and the possibility of "A Red Hot Swining' Christmas 2"!

Rhonda's website: http://rhondaburchmore.com

Jack's website: https://www.jackearle.com

Get a signed copy of "A Red Hot Swingin' Christmas": http://rhondaburchmore.com/store/redhotxmas

Stream the new album: https://snd.click/RB-SwinginXmas

Ken Kessler talks to Kevin McGrath about the pair of collections he's put together to benefit the homeless charity Crisis UK. "Have Yourself A Merry Indie Christmas" is in two volumes, and each one contains fifty-four original songs! Kevin talks about what it took to get all these songs from so many artists and the guidelines he used. He also invites you click the Bandcamp links below and listen to some (or all) of the songs yourself. And while he'd like to take a break, he hints that a third volume is not out of the question (and he invites indie artists to reach out to him for details)!

Have Yourself A Merry Indie Christmas Volume I: https://v4velindre.bandcamp.com/album/have-yourself-a-merry-indie-christmas-volume-i

Have Yourself A Merry Indie Christmas Volume II: https://v4velindre.bandcamp.com/album/have-yourself-a-merry-indie-christmas-volume-ii

Crisis UK: https://www.crisis.org.uk/

Kevin on Tumblr: https://redsoapbox.tumblr.com/

Kevin on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevonhissoapbox

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer-songwriter Grant Maloy Smith about his new album "The Christmas Heart" - how he picked the songs that are on it, and how he made them his own. They also talk about his American Stories albums, including the one he's currently working on. And they talked about his previous Christmas release, which was about a possum!

Grant's website:  https://www.grant-maloy-smith.com

Get an autographed copy of "The Christmas Heart":  https://www.grant-maloy-smith.com/product-page/christmas-in-america

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist Al Pitrelli about TSO's upcoming tour. They also talk about the history of the band, as Al was there from the very beginning (actually, before the very beginning). They talk about Paul O'Neill's legacy, and some of the unfinished projects Paul was working on, which the band is working on completing (including new Christmas music)!

Trans-Siberian Orchestra tour info:  https://www.trans-siberian.com/tour

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Jane Monheit about her new Christmas album "The Merriest". She talks about this project, which was in the works for years. She also talks about some of her favorite Christmas singers and songs, and hints that there might be more Christmas music coming from her in the not-too-distant future (maybe)!

Jane's website: https://www.janemonheitonline.com/

Get an autographed copy directly from Jane: https://www.janemonheitonline.com/store/p/the-merriest

Ken Kessler from the Sounds Of Christmas talks about the new season that has just kicked off on his station. He runs down a list of singers and musicians that have made the new season possible. And he goes through the different ways you can listen!

Sounds of Christmas website - https://www.soundsofchristmas.com

Listen Now page - https://www.soundsofchristmas.com/listen-now.html

App in the Google Play store - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thesoundsofchristmas&hl=en_US&gl=US

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/rapper/songwriter AdELA about All Star Kid and their latest release, A Thankfully Spooktacular Halloween. They talk about what All Star Kid is all about, and the new album, which features songs about Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas! AdELA also talks about some of the upcoming projects for All Star Kid, including (possibly) more holiday music next year! And though a little off topic, she also shares details of one of her songs being picked by the NHL as the official Stanley Cup song!

Find AdELA on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adelamusic/

All Star Kid: https://allstarkid.com/

All Star Kid on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allstarkid.com.ig/

All Star Kid YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/channel/UCcULZfOaRdjQo9eQnhOvTLg

Just in time for Halloween, Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talked to Lasse from the It's A 90's Christmas Podcast and Sean from the Christmas Podcasts Podcast about the scariest this podcast has ever talked about - the Star Wars Holiday Special! They talk about the music, the guest stars and why they believe the whole thing was a scam! In fact, they take such a deep dive into this special, that they talk about it for nearly as long as the special ran! Well, about half as long.

It's A 90's Christmas Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/its-a-90s-christmas-podcast/id1428714445

The Christmas Podcasts Podcast: https://christmaspodcasts.com/podcast-directory/christmas-podcasts-podcast/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Chayce, Jon, Josh and Seth from the Stephens, a band  who produce music based on the works of Stephen King! They talked about how they got started doing this, leading up to the release of their first album, "The Stephens", which was released earlier this year. They also talked about their passion for punk rock, as well as their passion for King's books. And they teased a few songs that are in the works and could be on their next release!

The Stephens on Bandcamp: https://thestephens.bandcamp.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Mike from Vista Blue about their new Halloween single "Victor Crowley". They also talk about lots more, including this summer's album "Stay Gold" which was a tribute to and inspired by S.E. Hinton's novel "The Outsiders". Mike also share some details about some Christmas music that's on the way, and some of the things coming in 2023!

Vista Blue on Bandcamp:  https://wearevistablue.bandcamp.com/

Time Of The Season comp: https://radiantradish.bandcamp.com/album/time-of-the-season

Radiant Radish store: https://radiantradish.storenvy.com/

Snow In Southtown podcast: https://snowinsouthtown.wordpress.com/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about some of the new Christmas music releases that are on the way (and some that are already available)! He also talks about the huge amount of Christmas vinyl that's going to be out this year, and he runs down a couple rumors of artists that may have Christmas music on the way!

New for 2022: https://www.soundsofchristmas.com/new-for-2022.html

Listen to the station now: https://www.soundsofchristmas.com/listen-now.html

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas observes One Hit Wonder Day by reviewing some lists of Christmas One Hit Wonders. Spoiler: he disagrees with almost every entry on every list! Artists mentioned in this episode include a-ha, Sinead O'Connor, Lee Ann Womack, Band Aid, José Feliciano, NewSong, the Waitresses, Gayla Peevy, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Wham!, Elmo 'n' Patsy, Mariah Carey, Brenda Lee, Eartha Kitt, Burl Ives, the Carpenters, Mannheim Steamroller, John Lennon, Thurl Ravenscroft, the Eagles, Jimmy Durante, Donny Hathaway, David Foster and Run DMC. Whew!

Billboard's Greatest Holiday Songs Of All Time: https://www.billboard.com/charts/greatest-of-all-time-holiday-100-songs/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the myth of Christmas Creep, with lots of examples from Christmas Past of elements of the season showing up before Thanksgiving, before Halloween and even before the first day of Fall! 

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about a couple non-Christmas topics - Standards Music and Halloween Music. He starts off talking about his recently launched Standards Station, and gets into what it means for a song to be a Standard, and the different kinds of music his new station plays. The Standards Station launched on September 1. Then, he talks about Halloween Music, which will be featured next month when the Sounds of Christmas becomes the Sounds of Halloween on October 1.

Standards Station - https://www.thestandardsstation.com/

Sounds of Christmas - https://www.soundsofchristmas.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Gerry D from the Totally Rad Christmas podcast and Scott from the Holly Jolly X'masu podcast about a couple of top Christmas song lists that miss the mark, and they each come up with their own list of the Top Ten 80s Christmas Songs!

The Totally Rad Christmas Podcast: https://totallyradchristmas.com/

The Holly Jolly X'masu Podcast: https://hollyjollyxmasu.libsyn.com/

The Payola$: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Payolas#External_links

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the passing of Olivia Newton-John. He talks about her stellar successes with a long list of hits, gold records, platinum records and Grammys. But mostly, he focuses on her beautiful catalog of Christmas music that she has left for us.

The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre:  https://www.onjcancercentre.org

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer Michael Sinatra about his newly released album "Standards Two (Deluxe Version)", including a breakdown of almost all the tracks, and what it's like recording some songs that are so strongly connected to some of the most iconic singers of all time. Michael also shares details about the deluxe treatment last year's Christmas album is getting, and what we can expect to hear when it comes out later this Fall!

 Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas continues a Christmas in July event by talking to hosts of other Christmas podcasts about their podcasts - what they're about, how (and why) they started doing it (and continue to do it) and what they've got planned for upcoming episodes. Today he talks to Robert from the Behind The Bells podcast!

Behind The Bells podcast: https://behindthebells.libsyn.com/

Movies Ken and Robert talked about...
The Santa Clause
Home Alone
Ernest Saves Christmas
Miracle On 34th Street
Home Alone
Home Sweet Home Alone
Home Alone 2
Holiday Inn
Die Hard
The Godfather
Michael
Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang
It’s A Wonderful Life

 Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas continues a Christmas in July event by talking to hosts of other Christmas podcasts about their podcasts - what they're about, how (and why) they started doing it (and continue to do it) and what they've got planned for upcoming episodes. Today he talks to Mike from Advent Calendar House and Collin from the Christmas Movies Actually podcast!

Advent Calendar House: https://adventcalendar.house/

Christmas Movies Actually: https://www.nowplayingnetwork.net/christmasmoviesactually

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas continues a Christmas in July event by talking to hosts of other Christmas podcasts about their podcasts - what they're about, how (and why) they started doing it (and continue to do it) and what they've got planned for upcoming episodes. Today he talks to Glen from Season's Eatings podcast and Joseph from the Christmas Creeps podcast!

Season's Eatings podcast: https://www.seasonseatingspodcast.com

Christmas Creeps podcast: https://christmascreeps.com

 Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas continuesa Christmas in July event by talking to hosts of other Christmas podcasts about their podcasts - what they're about, how (and why) they started doing it (and continue to do it) and what they've got planned for upcoming episodes. Today he talks to Tim from the Can't Wait For Christmas podcast, Art from A Cozy Christmas Podcast and Matt from North Pole Radio!

Can't Wait For Christmas podcast: https://cantwaitforchristmaspod.com

A Cozy Christmas podcast: https://www.cozychristmaspodcast.com

North Pole Radio: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gQmZ1ftxD44EpOciGMEIL

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas is kicking off a Christmas in July event by talking to hosts of other Christmas podcasts about their podcasts - what they're about, how (and why) they started doing it (and continue to do it) and what they've got planned for upcoming episodes. Today he talks to Gerry from the Totally Rad Christmas podcast, Scott from the Holly Jolly Xmasu poscast and Sean from the Christmas Podcasts Podcast!

Totally Rad Christmas podcast - https://totallyradchristmas.com/
Holly Jolly Xmasu podcast - https://hollyjollyxmasu.libsyn.com/
Christmas Podcasts podcast - https://christmaspodcasts.com/series/christmas-podcasts-podcast/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas revisits a topic from a previous episode -  Christmas songs from the last twenty years that they think are classics, or on their way to becoming classics (or, at least, worthy of being considered classics). This is in response to a growing number of posts and blogs over the last few years claiming that there isn't any good Christmas music being made any more.  Last time, he talked to several hosts of Christmas-themed podcasts, This time, he talks to three singers who have released Christmas music recently - Suzanne from Suzanne's Band, Linda Imperial and Dan Ashley. They also talk about their Christmas music plans for later this year!

Suzanne - https://suzannesband.com/
Linda Imperial - https://www.lindaimperial.com/
Dan Ashley - https://danashleymusic.com/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas plays segments from the Modern Mann podcast as Ollie Peart takes on a listener challenge to make a Christmas hit (which turns out being called "The Sounds Of Christmas")! Ken guides you through the journey when the listener first emails about the challenge, and then all the way through the creation of the song, the selection of a charity and the inclusion of the podcast community (plus follow-ups on how the song did, how much money was raised and how Ollie created a video with the help of listeners).

Modern Mann podcast - https://www.modernmann.co.uk
The Sounds of Christmas video on Ollie Peart's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LnJZcXBI9A0
Samuel's Charity - https://www.samuelscharity.co.uk

After talking about the lawsuit filed against Mariah Carey over "All I Want For Christmas Is You", Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about some lesser-known lawsuits over Christmas music, including court cases involving Dolly Parton, Darlene Love, Anthrax, Alabama and Wham!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Associate Attorney Wendy Diaz (from his brother's law firm) about the recent lawsuit Vince Vance (Andy Stone) has filed against Mariah Carey over the song "All I Want For Christmas Is You".

Find out more about Wendy Diaz and the Kessler Law Firm at http://www.kesslerlawfirm.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about creating a new online station devoted to Standards (and how you can help)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about wrapping up the long first season of the Sounds of Christmas podcast. He talks about Memorial Day, the anniversary of "White Christmas", finishing up with the music from 2021, social media and coming attractions for the Sounds of Christmas station and podcast!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about "Jingle Bell Rock" and how different artists release Christmas music. He also talks to singer/songwriter/consultant/blogger John O'Leary about some of the lesser known things about the writing of "Jingle Bell Rock", including the conspiracy theories about what might have happened (which probably did happen) in which careers were ended and lives were threatened. They also talked about the songwriting story behind "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas", and how that song evolved thanks to Judy Garland, and then, several years later, thanks to Frank Sinatra.

You can find out more about John O'Leary and read his blogs on his website: http://businesslessonsfromrock.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Gerry from the Totally Rad Christmas podcast, Scott from Holly Jolly X'masu podcast and Tim from the Can't Wait For Xmas podcast about Christmas songs from the last twenty years that they think are classics, or on their way to becoming classics (or, at least, worthy of being considered classics). This is in response to a growing number of posts and blogs over the last few years claiming that there isn't any good Christmas music being made any more.

Find out more about Gerry and the Totally Rad Christmas podcast at https://linktr.ee/TotallyRadChristmas

Find out more about Scott and the Holly Jolly X'masu podcast at https://hollyjollyxmasu.libsyn.com/website

Find out more about Tim and the Can't Wait For Xmas podcast at https://cantwaitforchristmaspod.com/

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about Nat King Cole's 1961 version of "The Christmas" being inducted into the National Recording Registry. Then he researched which other Christmas songs were in there, and talked about what should be on there (maybe) and how you can nominate your favorite Christmas songs and/or albums! 

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to JJ from Christmas Music News (@NewXmasMusic on Twitter) about upcoming releases for the 2022 Christmas Music Season. They talk about the ones that are confirmed, the ones that we may get his year, and the ones that are rumored to be on the way. They also talk about some of the rumored releases from Christmas Past that haven't shown up, yet. And about a couple artists that they wish would surprise us with Christmas music releases for the upcoming season!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about Chanticleer recent win at the Grammys for their album "Chanticleer Sings Christmas". He then wonders if any other Christmas music won Grammy Awards. He then reveals a short list of artists that did just that, and a much longer list of artists that you might think won Christmas music Grammys, but didn't, and in most cases, didn't even get nominated!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about an article from Stacker.com that uses data from WhoSampled.com for a list of the most covered songs of all time, which includes a bunch of Christmas songs. Since the article is from 2020, he looks at updated data from WhoSampled.com and cross-references it with data from the Sounds of Christmas library and the website SecondHandSongs.com. 

The original article can be found on Stacker's website here: https://stacker.com/stories/3975/most-covered-songs-all-time?fbclid=IwAR1Zzj0x7pzP0adph41t8hNgdnBFDWk9WKJ12YiwPbjN4bRxVJJT6Uy0nzE

WhoSampled lives here: https://www.whosampled.com/

SecondHandSongs lives here: https://secondhandsongs.com

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Aric Steinberg, Executive Vice President of Development and Artist Relations of the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  He shares many of the ways you can help singers and musicians, so they can continue to make the music we all love! Plus, for singers, musicians and others in the music industry, Aric explains how you can get the help you need! You can find out more, and get involved, at https://www.sweetrelief.org

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about a list from Cleveland.com - "50 Greatest Christmas Songs by Rock and Roll Hall of Famers".  He weighs in on their choices, offering some alternatives to their picks, and then runs down his own list of artists and songs that didn't make their list.

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the Beatles and their contributions to Christmas music, including their solo stuff and their fan club Christmas records (which you might be able to get today if you hurry)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Ken Benson from P1 Media Group about how and why Christmas songs get tested, and how your local radio station may be using some of that data.  They also talk about some of the songs on the list that were surprises, and some surprised about artists and songs that weren't on the latest list!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the passing of Ronnie Spector, her Christmas music and her love of Christmas!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas thanks you for listening to this podcast and to the Sounds of Christmas station, and reminds you that both will be continuing, year-round, through all of 2022. Whenever you need a Christmas music fix, or some Christmas Spirit, the Sounds of Christmas will be there for you!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas revisits nineteen of his earlier podcasts with singers and musicians for a composite of some of the Christmas music that just might be in the works for Christmas 2022! Artists appearing (briefly) in this episode are Brynn Stanley, Cliff Beach, Corinne Cook, Karla Bonoff, David Browning, Judy Pancoast, Deb Bowman, Michael Sinatra, Linda Imperial, Paul Kelly, Dan Ashley, Noreen Braun, Pete Hopkins, Rosalie Drysdale, Liz Kennedy, Sarah Reeves, T.J. Winterbrook, Suzanne from Suzanne's Band and Rehya Stevens!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas reminds you that the Twelve Days Of Christmas actually come AFTER CHRISTMAS! He talks about this, the origin (and changes of the song "The Twelve Days Of Christmas") and how it's used to compute the True Cost Of Christmas. Most importantly, he wants you to know you don't have to stop listening to Christmas music, just because the calendar date for Christmas has passed.

Ken from the Sounds of Christmas, and many of the hosts of podcasts on the Christmas Podcast Network, wish you a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas compiles pieces of Michael Sinatra's previous appearances on the Sounds of Christmas podcast for a thorough listen to his process for making his latest Christmas album, from his first appearance last April when he was just starting work on it, to his appearance a few weeks ago, shortly following the release of "Christmas", his second Christmas album!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to T.J. from Winterbrook about the appeal of Christmas music, which led him to release five original Christmas singles this year! He talks about inspiration for the songs, and what he loves about Christmas music. He also talks about plans for even more Christmas music for 2022!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Rehya Stevens about her passion for songwriting, and her Christmas albums "Celebrate" and "Tis The Season" (the latter of which is her latest). They also talked about her process and inspiration for her music, her Halloween song and some of the non-Christmas music that is on the way in 2022 (along with the possibility of more Christmas music, too)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Aaron from the Christmas music blog Merry and Bright (merryandbright.blogspot.com) about some of the new music he's found that he thinks you should know about (including Rehya Stevens, Cliff Beach, the Wires, Katie Garibaldi, Wes Walls, the Yule Logs and Cristina F). They also talk about the impact Mannheim Steamroller had, both on Christmas music in general, as well as on the Merry and Bright blog and on the Sounds of Christmas!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about Eddie Money's Christmas music, and the new song from his kids, Jesse Money and Dez Money, where they have rewritten lyrics to his song "Everybody Loves Christmas" to reflect on spending Christmas without him. This is not a sad song. It's warm and hopeful, and will resonate with anyone that is think about someone they've lost as we head into Christmas. 

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Gerry from the Totally Rad Christmas Podcast about 80s Christmas music. Some of the things they talk about include Prince's Christmas song, the California Raisins' Christmas album, Scrooge's Rock 'n' Roll Christmas, Kenny & Dolly, Fan Club Christmas singles from R.E.M. and the Eurythmics, George Strait, Ray Charles, the Judds, Kenny & Dolly, Band Aid and Wilson Pickett and the Christmas Soul Special!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter David Browning about his new album, "Christmas Presence", and the very relatable first single, "Merry Christmas". He also talks about the inspiration behind some of his original Christmas songs, as well as what led him to record the Christmas cover songs on his new album. And they talk about his cover of "When Doves Cry" and his earlier releases, along with a trio of animated videos he did years ago that are on his YouTube channel!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to musician/producer, songwriter, and award-winning composer Tommee Profitt! Tommee talks about his cinematic Christmas album, "The Birth Of A King", a project which he began fifteen years ago! They also talk about Tommee's series of Cinematic music albums, his covers album and "Gilligan's Island"! 

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Jeff Fowler about his new Christmas EP, "Just In Time For Christmas". They also talk about Jeff's path to music, his love of 80s music and his upcoming live album (plus they talk about the possibility of more Christmas music on the way)! 

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Norine Braun about "December Falls", her Christmas album from last year, and her new EP "Stripped Down Acoustic", which is just out! They also talk about poinsettias and the Winter Solstice, plus about some of her upcoming projects (including the possibility of more Christmas music)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Michael Sinatra about his new release "Christmas", how it differs from his previous Christmas album, and about the new Standards and Christmas releases that are on the way next year!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Pete Hopkins about his new single "Love Come Around", which had some legendary help! They also talk about Pete's earlier Christmas music and the possibility that he'll have an entire Christmas album out next year!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Karla Bonoff about her history with Christmas music, last year's album "Silent Night" and her new Christmas songs for this year (including a duet with Michael McDonald)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Linda Imperial about her amazing career, from backing Big Mama Thornton's band to dance hits in the 80's to solo hits in the 90's to her first-ever Christmas single. They also talk about Rosemary Clooney's Christmas songbook, and the possibility that Linda will use at least some of that for a potential Christmas album (maybe as soon as next year)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Rosalie Drysdale about her Christmas album "Let There Be Light" and her string of singles, which started coming out late this fall and will continue right up to Christmas! She also talks about inspiration, Christmas songs she'd like to record (and might release soon) and about loving lots of different kinds of music!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Liz Kennedy about Christmas music and her single "Snowman Moon (A Christmas Crime)". They also talk about her path to singing and songwriting, and how she proves that it's never too late to follow your heart!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer and paranormal romance author (and his wife) Lisa Kessler about her Christmas album, "The Magic Of Christmas", and her latest book, "A Winter's Wish"! They also talk about her other Christmas stories, and the Christmas song she wrote that YOU might be able to help her record!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Deb Bowman about her new album a Big Love Holiday (including inspiration for the songs and the possibility of even more Christmas music on the horizon)! She also talks about appearing in the Addams Family musical, working with Meryl Street and her role in the upcoming third season of the CW's Stargirl)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Judy Pancoast about "The House On Christmas Street" - the song, the tour and the novel! She also talks about her album "Christmas With Mrs. Claus" and the tradition she hopes it inspires. Plus, Ken and Judy talk about her being asked to perform for a sitting United States President (not once, but twice)! They also talk about her love of the Carpenters, her work on a Christmas Zombie story and her new Christmas single (with Kevin Scott Hall), "Christmastime In Maine"!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Mike from Vista Blue (and Ralphie's Red Ryders and Tambourine Girlfriend) about his free upcoming Christmas EP, which will be out this Friday. They also talk about Mike's process for writing Christmas songs, as well as spooky songs and baseball songs. They also talk about the podcast Mike co-hosts with his friend Rusty, Snow In Southtown, and some of what you can hear about in their Thanksgiving episode! Not only does Mike give us some exclusive news on some of his plans for 2022, but he also gives us an exclusive acoustic performance of some of the songs he's written (some we talked about and some we didn't)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Paul Kelly about Christmas music, revisiting "How To Make Gravy and his new Christmas album, Paul Kelly's Christmas Train, including the huge list of guests appearing on various tracks, and how he chose the huge, diverse group of songs in this twenty-two track collection!

Ken Kessler talks to ABC 7 (San Francisco) news anchor Dan Ashley about his music career, including his latest album, his Christmas single, Charles Dickens, Christmas Spirit, his upcoming Christmas album, the Star Spangled Banner and Rock The Casa (his charitable foundation)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Corinne Cook about her original Christmas song "A Soldier's Holiday", about serving in the military and being away from home at Christmas, all from the point-of-view of a woman in the military. Corinne also talks about her latest music, and her plans for her Christmas album!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Sarah Reeves about Christmas music, her just-released album More The Merrier and the possibility of even more new Christmas music somewhere down the road!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer/songwriter Cliff Beach about his new Christmas album, "Merry Christmas, Happy New Year", and some of the music that inspired him, including James Brown, Louis Armstrong and Bruce Springsteen!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Brynn Stanley about Halloween music, Christmas music, "Freebird" and lots more (including the possibility of a sequel to her "Classic Christmas" album! 

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas concludes his three-part conversation with Suzanne from Suzanne's Band about the making of their new single, "Underneath The Tree", which is out today!

Ken Kessler talks about the new season of the Sounds of Christmas, which has just begun! He shares some info on the many singers and bands that are sponsoring the station this year - Kenny Davies, Russ Lorenson, Michael Sinatra, Brynn Stanley, Suzanne's Band, Lauren Daigle, Tommee Profitt, Rosalie Drysdale, Francesca, Battistelli, Norine Braun, Margaret Dorn and the Accidentals, Paul Kelly, Sarah Reeves, Cliff Beach, Dan Ashley, Linda Imperial, Corinne Cook and Liz Kennedy!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Michelle Stockard Miller about her site, www.truexmasspirit.blogspot.com. They talk about Halloween info on her site, and her recent trip to Salem, Massachusetts. They also talk about Rudolph Day, and new Christmas book and Christmas music releases.

The Sounds of Christmas' Ken Kessler talks to Katie Daryl, host of The Top Ten Revealed on AXS-TV,  about the Halloween marathon coming up this Sunday, leading up to the kick-off of the fourth season (which opens with "Murder Songs"). They also talk about how the top ten lists are compiled, along with details about some of the upcoming episodes (including a Christmas episode that's on the way this December)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas thanks the folks at MyMerryChristmas.com and everyone else involved in naming this podcast the Best New Christmas Podcast of 2021!

The Sounds of Christmas' Ken Kessler talks to singer/songwriter Fawn about her award-winning Halloween and Christmas music, as well as her non-holiday music and a few non-music topics (like rescue dogs)! Find out more about her at fawnmusic.com 

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Tod Elmore and Steve Everett from Rock By The Sea about this week's release of their twelfth  Christmas music compilation, as well as their upcoming events, charities they work with and how you can help!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about "I Put A Spell On You" and other Halloween music his station is playing this month!

Ken Kessler talks about the annual change to the Sounds of Christmas, as it becomes the Sounds of Halloween on October 1!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Michael Sinatra again about the progress he's making on his forthcoming Christmas release (including details about the songs and the inspiration behind it all)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the myth of "Christmas Creep", the supposed idea that Christmas-related things are being forced on the public earlier and earlier each year. Christmas-related fare has shown up in stores, in movie theaters and in other places before Thanksgiving, before Halloween, and even before October, for a very long time. The only thing that's really new is the seemingly growing number of people complaining about it.

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Suzanne from Suzanne's Band about the making of her band's forthcoming Christmas single, including the writing, recording, producing and mixing. Suzanne also talks about her inspiration for her Christmas music and when you'll be able to hear and purchase the new single!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about Elvis and his contributions to Christmas music, including an upcoming release due out this November!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about some of the new Christmas music that's on the way this Fall!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the recent 36th anniversary of Live Aid, and about the Band Aid single "Do They Know It's Christmas?" (and all of its sequels).

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about Christmas In July - how it started (probably) and how it's going in 2021

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Jeff from MyMerryChristmas.com about upcoming Christmas In July events (and the easy way you can be a part of it)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas shares an interview he did with Little Feat's Paul Barrere in 2011. They talked about Paul's Christmas music contributions to help Safety Kids Harbor and Sweet Relief.

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas marks the passing of B.J. Thomas by talking about his musical legacy, especially his many Christmas releases!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to collector and friend of the station Drew. Drew is terrific at helping to keep Christmas Spirit alive all year long. He helps to moderate several Christmas groups on Facebook, and collects rare (and not-so-rare) Christmas music, movies and television specials. Ken and Drew talk about their love, and obsession, with collecting, and some of the hard-to-find items that are in danger of being forgotten. They also talk about Halloween groups on Facebook, and what makes some songs Halloween songs.

Note: In a few brief instances, Drew's connection is slightly garbled, but it is quickly resolved.

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about Halloween music, and the transformation that happens every Fall when the Sounds of Christmas becomes the Sounds of Halloween during the month of October!

The Sounds of Christmas' Ken Kessler talked to Rikki Meece from the Sleigh Bells and Mistletoe Podcast about her podcast (with Mary Richards), Christmas music and keeping the spirit all year long! Plus, they talked about some of Rikki's favorite topics from past and upcoming episodes, and Ken shared his love/hate relationship with Department 56!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about a couple of his pet peeves regarding Rudolph and the other reindeer.

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to singer Michael Sinatra about his Christmas album, An Old Fashioned Christmas, and the plans he has for a follow-up Christmas album, due later this year!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the song "Baby, It's Cold Outside", the War On Christmas (there isn't one) and the ridiculous claims that there's a movement afoot to cancel Christmas!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks to Suzanne from Suzanne's Band about the process of making a Christmas single as she prepares to head into the studio to record a new one for Christmas 2021!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas gives a quick tribute to Solomon Burke and Eddie Money, who shared the same birthday (3/21) and shared a love of Christmas music!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about the legendary Christmas music of Nat King Cole (following Cole's 102nd birthday)!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about Dr. Seuss, cancel culture and the so-called War On Christmas.

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talked about how he keeps the station fresh all year long. He talks about surprise releases, both from this past year and from many years ago!

Ken Kessler from the Sounds of Christmas talks about songs that his station doesn't play (and why) and about things his station won't do (and why).

In our first podcast, I just wanted to mention a bit about the Sounds of Christmas, how we got here and what we do, and set the stage for what I hope will be a fun series of interviews with people who love Christmas music.