Clay Aiken returns with Christmas Bells Are Ringing, a festive album that blends timeless holiday classics and inventive reimaginings while celebrating 20 years since his record-breaking Merry Christmas With Love.
After a 15 year break from the studio, Clay Aiken is back to charm fans once again with his first new album in over a decade. Just in time for the holiday season, Christmas Bells Are Ringing marks a joyful return for Aiken, bringing his classic, soulful sound to a fresh set of holiday songs. This album lands at the perfect time - celebrating 20 years since his 2004 record-breaking Christmas release, Merry Christmas With Love.
Produced by Grammy-winning Ron Fair, Christmas Bells Are Ringing revives the magic of Christmases past, delivering beloved classics alongside unexpected treasures that give the album its own unique sparkle. The tracklist is designed to feel familiar yet fresh, with Aiken’s recent take on the Paul McCartney holiday favorite “Wonderful Christmastime” capturing the spirit perfectly. This follows the release of “Do You Hear What I Hear?” - both songs showcasing his signature vocal warmth and emotional depth.
With this new holiday album, Aiken mixes old-school charm with a modern twist, nodding to classic influences while staying true to his unmistakable style. Tracks like “Caroling, Caroling” bring Nat King Cole’s timeless holiday cheer, while a rendition of “Merry Christmas, Darling” pays tribute to the Carpenters, one of Aiken’s inspirations. Adding a creative twist, he also reimagines “Pure Imagination” from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, inviting listeners to a magical winter wonderland through song.
Clay Aiken, who shot to stardom as the runner-up on American Idol's second season in 2003, has achieved multi-platinum success and built a lasting career that has touched music, Broadway, and even politics. Now, Christmas Bells Are Ringing brings him back to his roots, filling homes with that festive joy only he can deliver. From treasured classics to new interpretations, the album is a nostalgic yet refreshing experience that will set the perfect mood for the holiday season.