Track Listing

1. I Saw Three Ships - Ralph Carmichael, Nat King Cole
2. Cradle in Bethlehem - Ralph Carmichael, Nat King Cole
3. Christmas Song - Nat King Cole,
4. Mrs. Santa Claus - Nat King Cole, Nelson Riddle
5. Take Me Back to Toyland - Nat King Cole, Nelson Riddle
6. Frosty the Snowman - Nat King Cole, Pete Rugolo, ,
7. Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot - Nat King Cole, Nelson Riddle
8. All I Want for Christmas (Is My Two Front Teeth) - Nat King Cole, The Starlighters,
9. Little Christmas Tree - Nat King Cole, , The Starlighters,
10. Happiest Christmas Tree - Nat King Cole
11. Away in a Manger - Ralph Carmichael, Nat King Cole
12. Silent Night - Ralph Carmichael, Nat King Cole
13. There's a Train Out for Dreamland - Nat King Cole, Frank de Vol,
14. Brahms' Lullaby - Nat King Cole, Frank de Vol,

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #61455 in Music
• Released on: 2000-10-03
• Number of discs: 1
• Dimensions: .21 pounds

Customer Reviews

Wonderful!
I absolutely love this cd!!. Evoking cherished memories of holiday seasons gone by - the brightness of a sun drenched field blanketed in snow, the warmth of a blazing fire in the hearth, the laughter and good wishes, the sparkling, wonder-filled eyes of children awaiting Santa- Nat King Cole's renditions of the many classics on this album thoroughly embody the spirit of Christmas. In addition, the fact that a portion of the proceeds benefits the Children's Defense Fund, a wonderful non-profit organization dedicated to advocating the rights of children across the country, makes it even better. An instant classic!

An honest and true CHRISTMAS CD...with definite adult appeal
Yep, the title is "Christmas For Kids", but if you listen to some of these songs, you'll know they aren't all for kids.

This definitely stands above most currently available Christmas CDs. Since the most recent track was recorded in 1960, there sure isn't anything new, but there are several that aren't familiar.

Nat "King" Cole is one of the great "smooth" singers, and if you don't appreciate smooth singers, this isn't for you. But if you have respect for the days and the output of such as Crosby, Como, and others, you'll want him in your Christmas collection.

The set starts with a lively rendition of the traditional "I Saw Three Ships", followed by the soft and mellow "A Cradle In Bethlehem." Then comes the recording which, for me, is second only to Bing's "White Christmas" as the all-time great of the "popular" Christmas songs. I refer, of course, to King Cole's recording of "The Christmas Song".

None of these songs should be slighted, but I especially want to call attention to:

"Take Me Back To Toyland", definitely a song with meaning, the longing of an adult for a simpler and happier time.

"Frosty, The Snowman", one of the happiest child centered Christmas songs, given great treatment here.

"The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot", a sentimental song done by earlier singers given a very tender and meaningful treatment here. This is a situation that of course is just as true and common a one as it was when it was first composed. Compassion and realization along with the will to eliminate such unhappiness many children experience is called for here.

"All I Want For Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth" became a great novelty hit by Spike Jones and the City Slickers, but was recorded by many others. Nat King Cole's is one of the best of the straighter versions of the song.

"Silent Night". I have never attempted to formulate a list of the ten greatest recordings of this song. I do make it clear elsewhere which singer I believe presents the most beautiful and the most fully spiritual version of this song, but my own top ten list would almost certainly include Bing's, Pavarotti's, Anne Murray's, and King Cole's recordings, not necessarily in that order, in the 2nd-10th spots.

"Brahms' Lullaby" isn't a Christmas song, but it sure appears on a number of Christmas CDs. Although a melody composed by one of the greatest of the classical composers, it lends itself well to the smooth treatment given it here.

Yes, this CD has songs that kids like, but is also one of the best ever Christmas CDs for us grown-ups too.

Xmas 4 kids from 1 to 92
Mr. Cole's music is profound, especially during the holiday season. While growing up, we listened to a Christmas album that was very similar to this new release-- and the music warmed our hearts, having the same affect on us as viewing the glowing Christmas tree through the frosted, glass window of our home or smelling Grandma's cinnamon apple pies bake in the oven. When listening to his holiday music, the sights and smells of my childhood Christmas rush back to me with great joy. You will admire and love the music of this classic collection. The sounds will never go out of style!