Considering John Legend’s successfully decorated music career, it’s hard to believe that he just released his first Christmas album. A Legendary Christmas is a mix of traditional classics, sprinkled in with some original numbers. Oh and if that wasn’t enough, Raphael Saadiq was at the helm of the album’s production. Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without classics like “What Christmas Means To Me” and “Silver Bells”. Stevie Wonder, another musical legend, joins John Legend on the former track to offer a memorable reworking. 

The best part about the album is John Legend serves up just enough originality without stripping the classic elements we love about Christmas music. “No Place Like Home” is a jazzy, original tune that sits comfortably next to the Christmas staples we know and love. He carries most of the weight of the album alone, other than an additional feature from Esperanza Spalding. She joins him on the rousing rendition of “Have Yourself A Very Merry Christmas”. 

The album couldn’t have come at a better time; right on the heels of his Emmy win for his contribution and role to Jesus Christ Superstar Live In Concert. Only true Marvin Gaye fans may remember his Christmas song, “Purple Snowflakes”. John Legend definitely pays a fitting tribute to the song, with a dreamy, trumpet heavy reworking of it. “Wrap Me Up In Your Love” is a smooth, R&B infused original and standout on the album. Honestly, you can play the entire CD straight through. There hasn’t been a Christmas CD this enjoyable since CeeLo’s CeeLo’s Magic Moment. 

The Legendary Christmas Tour begins tonight in Madison Square Garden. John Legend definitely took his time to craft not only one of the best Christmas albums in recent years, but also one of his most solid efforts period. Legendary indeed.