Bing Crosby - Best of Bing Crosby: 20th Century Masters/The Christmas Collection

This edition in Universal's discount-priced compilation series 20th Century Masters/The Christmas Collection is actually a re-titled reissue of the 1999 collection The Very Best of Bing Crosby Christmas, itself a single-disc distillation of the two-CD set The Voice of Christmas/The Complete Decca Christmas Songbook. It is an excellent 18-track album sampling Crosby's holiday-related recordings made between 1942 and 1956, ranging from religious efforts like "Silent Night" to a medley of traditional carols ("Deck the Halls," "Away in a Manger," and "I Saw Three Ships"); World War II-era seasonal standards such as "I'll Be Home for Christmas"; and, finally, a restored version of the original 1942 recording of "White Christmas." (The song was so popular that Crosby had to re-record it in 1947 because the first master recording was wearing out; ironically, it's the later version, more commonly used since then, that is better known.) There are plenty of christmas compilations by Crosby, who remains best remembered for his holiday recordings; this is the best single-disc one, released at an attractive price. ~ William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide

Name Credits Andy McKaie Coordination Beth Stempel Coordination Bing Crosby Vocals Buddy Cole & His Orchestra ? Carol Richards ? David Currington Restoration, Sonic Restoration, Transfers F.B. "Wig" Wiggins Liner Notes, Compilation Jeff Alexander Choir ? Jim Phillips Editing, Assembly John Scott Trotter & His Orchestra ? Jud Conlon's Rhythmaires ? Ken Darby Singers Vocals Ken Lane Singers Vocals Max Terr's Mixed Chorus ? Rady, Simon & His Orchestra and Choir ? Ryan Rogers Design Steve Lasker Sonic Restoration, Transfers, Restoration The Andrews Sisters Vocals Vartan Art Direction Vic Schoen & His Orchestra ? Victor Young & His Orchestra ?