Hello, everyone. Welcome back to the countdown.

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

On the 9th day of Christmas a hero gave to thee “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. The holiday staple premiered 60 years ago today on December 9, 1965. It has been a treasured classic ever since.

That year was also the 15th anniversary of the first Peanuts comic strip which was published on October 2, 1950. It was a monumental success so The Coca-Cola Company commissioned a special from creator Charles M. Schulz. He collaborated with executive producer Lee Mendelson, producer & director Bill Melendez and jazz musician Vince Guaraldi to bring the loveable relatable Peanuts characters to life.

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Schulz’s story about Charlie Brown feeling let down by the holiday, his exhaustive efforts to direct his friends in a Christmas play and to find the perfect tree for the stage leads him to wonder in frustration, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?!”

That someone with the answer is the sage & gentle Linus who gives a touching recitation from the Book of Luke. Linus also gives the tree “a little love” to bring it to life which brings the gang together in song. While the final track is a familiar carol, most of the innovative and delightful soundtrack contains songs written exclusively for the special. Add to that scenes of winter activities like ice skating, catching snowflakes & snowball fights and the special is a a sweet perfect moment we get to relive year after year.

Thank you, Charles M. Schulz, for The Peanuts and “A Charlie Brown Christmas”.

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

(Image found online. Original source unknown.)

This year I found a new spin on my favorite song from the soundtrack courtesy of music legend Herb Alpert’s latest album.

(Image found online. Original source unknown.)

(Image found online. Original source unknown.)

The Vince Guaraldi Trio: “Christmas Time Is Here” (1965, music by Vince Guaraldi, lyrics by Lee Mendelson).  

The Vince Guaraldi Trio: “Skating” (1965, written by Vince Guaraldi).

The Vince Guaraldi Trio: “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” (1965, written by Felix Mendelssohn and Charles Wesley).

Herb Alpert: “Christmas Time Is Here” (2025, music by Vince Guaraldi).

What are some of your favorite Christmas songs?

Until next time, happy listening!!!