Christmas Music for a Swinging Retro Dinner Party

Although Christmas is hustly and bustly, it should also put you in a fantastically good mood! Holiday music is a big part of that, and with all the Christmas CDs out there, how do you pick out the really wonderful ones? It's especially hard if you're looking for music that is not your typical pop remix.

For this swap, you are invited to create a playlist of holiday music appropriate for a swinging retro dinner party. Think snazzy holiday jazz music, cheery 40s 50s 60s versions of Christmas carols, festive lounge-y remixes, upbeat, sophisticated wintry tunes that make your toes tap, and generally just jingly retro songs that put you in the holiday mood and are great for an adult dinner party. Music that has a scratchy record player-type effect is especially fun, too.

You must include specific song links to iTunes, Amazon, or some other online retailer where the songs may be easily purchased. We want this list to be accessible to everyone in every country. It's okay if you include a few songs that you absolutely love that are out of print, but please do the research and indicate that this is the case--and listing the specific version of the song (title, performer, etc) is especially important if this happens.

Each playlist should consist of at least 8 songs, although you may certainly include more if you wish. Music should not all be from the same CD so that recipients receive the widest possible range of new suggestions. It would be nice if you included a short note about your choices, although it's not necessary to go line by line through each pick.

So to recap: you pick 8 songs, you provide links, and you send via email. That's it! A few ground rules, but this should still be pretty easy if you like this type of music. You will not be sending out any actual songs (digital or otherwise).

I will be hosting a few different versions of this swap with different kinds of music, so stay tuned if this isn't quite the music for you. You will send your list via email to 5 partners, though I am also planning to send my own personal list to all who participate as well.

All the usual disclaimers: Please do not join if you don't plan on following through. If you are delayed for any reason, make sure to clearly communicate with your partner and with me. This swap is open to everyone with a well-rounded profile, but those who seem risky will be deleted. And please--remember to rate your partner promptly. It only takes two seconds to show your appreciation.

Other swaps I am hosting:

• Make Cupcake Toppers for Your Partner!