Phil Spector before the fall

Many things contribute to the Christmas season, and I think most of us would agree that music plays a big role in adding to the holiday mood.

Legendary music producer Phil Spector is known more these days for his dramatic personal life than for the fact that he once created some wonderful music.

My favorite production of his is a Christmas album he made back in the early 60s with several artists. Titled 'A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector,' it is one of the best Christmas albums I own.

Working with the Ronettes, the Crystals, Bob B. Soxx and the Blue Jeans, and Darlene Love, he applied his Wall of Sound production technique to some well-known holiday classics like: 'White Christmas,' 'Frosty the Snowman,' and 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town.'

However, the best is Darlene Love singing 'Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).' For years, David Letterman had Love come on his show and sing this song each holiday season. I don't know if he still does, but she always did a great job.

If you can find this in the discount bins somewhere, make sure to buy it. It is first rate.