Mariah Carey
's first holiday-themed album, 1994's
Merry Christmas
, featured a gospel-tinged
"O Holy Night"
and a dance club take on
"Joy to the World."
However, it is perhaps best remembered for her co-penned hit
"All I Want for Christmas Is You,"
a well-crafted
Phil Spector
tribute, with
Beach Boys
-style harmonies, jangling bells, and a sleigh-ride pace. ~ Roch Parisien