So many artists have covered this classic since Robert Wells and Mel Torme wrote the original. Sinatra. John Legend. Buble. Perry Como. But for me, Nat King Cole’s version has always been the best. It was always the warmest. It’s the version that conjures up the holiday spirit with images of hickory wood fireplaces, city streets with holiday lights and snow-covered hills. It’s a musical backdrop for Christmas that has stood the test of time.

“And so I'm offering this simple phrase to kids from one to ninety-two. Although it's been said many times, many ways, Merry Christmas to you.”