Here's to Christmas


Here's to Christmas is the debut studio album by English former professional footballer and football manager Chris Kamara. It was released on 15 November 2019 by So What? and Silva Screen Records. The album peaked at number 8 on the UK Albums Chart.

Background

In an interview, Kamara said he has always been a fan of big band music, "I know it might be surprising to some, but anyone who knows me – especially those who shared a changing room with me in my playing days who first told me I could sing – will tell you what a big fan I am of big band music. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d get to record a full album, though! Here’s To Christmas is something I’m really proud of and I think it stands up as something fun, but something that doesn’t sound half bad too – an album to get everyone into the swing of Christmas!"

Critical reception

Rachel Howdle from The Irish Times, gave the album a positive review stating, "Put away your ideas of tacky, comedy and general seasonal tack. Pick up your lounge suit, Rat Pack longings and chilled out vibes. Chris Kamara has delivered a smooth, big band swing album that is pure class – and sounds, just like Kammy! And it works. You will fight singing along to the classics Winter Wonderland, It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas, Frosty The Snowman and Santa Baby – I had no reason to be, it was just sublime. The one down point? It's over far too soon! Lay down your misgivings and pick up your mulled wine and listen to the Christmas album you never knew you needed."

Commercial performance

On 22 November 2019, Here's to Christmas entered the UK Albums Chart at number eight. The album also entered the Scottish Albums Chart at number eight.

Track listing

Charts