A Very Special Christmas 2 Vinyl Release Details

The A Very Special Christmas 2 vinyl is a beloved holiday compilation that continues the tradition of its iconic predecessor, featuring chart-topping 1990s pop and rock acts performing festive classics and original yuletide songs. Released in 1992 as a follow-up to the massively successful 1987 charity album A Very Special Christmas, this limited-edition vinyl pressing supports the Special Olympics and showcases performances from artists like Mariah Carey, Gloria Estefan, New Kids on the Block, and Sting. For collectors and audiophiles alike, finding an authentic copy of A Very Special Christmas 2 on vinyl has become a seasonal treasure hunt, with reissues and rare pressings gaining popularity during the holidays.

Historical Background of the A Very Special Christmas Series

The A Very Special Christmas series began as both a musical celebration and a philanthropic initiative. The first album was conceived by Jimmy Iovine, then-chairman of A&M Records, in collaboration with Special Olympics CEO Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Released in 1987, it featured major artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Madonna, U2, and Whitney Houston—all donating their performances to raise funds for the Special Olympics. Its success—selling over 10 million copies worldwide—prompted a sequel.

A Very Special Christmas 2 arrived five years later, in November 1992, timed perfectly for the holiday shopping season. It maintained the same charitable mission while reflecting the evolving music landscape of the early '90s. Unlike the synth-heavy pop of the late '80s, this edition embraced the rise of new jack swing, adult contemporary ballads, and Latin-infused pop. Pressed on standard black vinyl (and later reissued in colored variants), the LP offered fans a warm analog listening experience distinct from CDs or cassettes of the era.

Tracklist and Featured Artists

The A Very Special Christmas 2 vinyl record features 14 tracks spanning upbeat holiday anthems and heartfelt seasonal ballads. Below is the full tracklist:

Track #	Artist	Song Title
1	Mariah Carey	"All I Want for Christmas Is You" (Original Demo Version)
2	Gloria Estefan	"Feliz Navidad"
3	New Kids on the Block	"Baby, It's Cold Outside"
4	Sting	"I Believe in Father Christmas"
5	Elton John	"Step into Christmas"
6	Bobby Brown	"Christmas All Over the World"
7	Anita Baker	"Christmas Time Is Here"
8	Paula Abdul	"Santa Claus Is Coming to Town"
9	Michael Bolton	"The First Noel"
10	Wilson Phillips	"Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!"
11	Daryl Hall & John Oates	"It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year"
12	Janet Jackson	"What'll I Do" (from *Poetic Justice*)
13	Al Bano & Romina Power	"Tu Scendi Dalle Stelle"
14	Run-D.M.C.	"Christmas in Hollis"

Notably, the vinyl version excludes two tracks found on the CD and cassette editions due to time constraints: "Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree" by Shanice and "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" by Luther Vandross. This makes the original A Very Special Christmas 2 vinyl pressing unique among formats and highly sought after by purists.

Sound Quality and Format Characteristics

Vinyl enthusiasts appreciate the A Very Special Christmas 2 LP for its rich tonal depth and dynamic range, especially on soulful performances like Anita Baker’s "Christmas Time Is Here" and Sting’s haunting rendition of Greg Lake’s "I Believe in Father Christmas." The analog warmth enhances the emotional resonance of these recordings, offering a more immersive listening experience than digital formats.

The original 1992 pressing was released at 33⅓ RPM on 12-inch black vinyl. In 2018, Universal Music Enterprises issued a remastered limited edition on translucent red and green swirl vinyl for Record Store Day Black Friday, boosting collector interest. These reissues are often labeled as A Very Special Christmas 2 special edition vinyl and include faithfully reproduced artwork and liner notes honoring the Special Olympics cause.

Availability and Where to Purchase

Finding an authentic copy of A Very Special Christmas 2 on vinyl can be challenging. The original 1992 pressing is out of print and only available through secondary markets. Online platforms such as Discogs, eBay, and Etsy frequently list used and sealed copies, with prices ranging from $40 for well-played versions to over $200 for mint-condition sealed pressings.

The 2018 Record Store Day reissue remains the most accessible option for modern collectors. While no longer in production, it can still be found at independent record stores, particularly during the holiday season. Major retailers like Barnes & Noble and Urban Outfitters occasionally stock vintage-inspired holiday vinyl collections that may include this title. Fans are advised to check store websites or call ahead before visiting.

To ensure authenticity, buyers should verify the label (A&M Records, catalog number SP-5282), inspect the condition grading (using standards like VG+, NM, etc.), and confirm whether the copy includes the original inner sleeve with artist photos and liner notes supporting the Special Olympics.

Collector’s Value and Market Trends

As holiday-themed vinyl records have surged in popularity over the past decade, A Very Special Christmas 2 vinyl value has steadily increased. According to recent market data from Discogs, average resale prices rose by 65% between 2019 and 2023. Factors influencing value include:

• Condition: Sealed, unopened copies command premium prices.
• Pressing Type: Original 1992 US pressings are more valuable than international releases.
• Inclusions: Copies with original inserts, booklets, or autographs significantly increase worth.
• Rarity: Limited-run color variants (e.g., red/green swirl) attract serious collectors.

Experts recommend storing vinyl in upright positions, away from sunlight and humidity, to preserve condition. Using anti-static inner sleeves and cleaning records before playback also helps maintain long-term value.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Beyond its sonic appeal, A Very Special Christmas 2 holds cultural significance as a snapshot of early-'90s pop culture and celebrity-driven philanthropy. At a time when MTV dominated youth entertainment, having stars like Paula Abdul, Bobby Brown, and New Kids on the Block participate reinforced the connection between mainstream music and social causes.

The inclusion of Mariah Carey’s demo version of "All I Want for Christmas Is You" predates the single’s global explosion, making this vinyl a piece of music history. Though not widely recognized at the time, this early take offers a stripped-down, intimate contrast to the polished hit version released the following year.

Moreover, the album helped normalize the idea of high-profile artists contributing to charitable projects without commercial incentives—a model later adopted by initiatives like Band Aid, Live Aid, and Hope for Haiti Now.

How to Identify Authentic Pressings

Due to rising demand, counterfeit or mislabeled copies of A Very Special Christmas 2 vinyl have appeared online. To avoid fraud, collectors should look for these key identifiers:

• Label Logo: Must feature the classic A&M Records logo (the marching ants).
• Catalog Number: SP-5282 for the US LP release.
• Copyright Line: Should read © 1992 Geffen Records Inc. for phonographic rights.
• Matrix Etching: On the dead wax, expect stamped codes like "A1" or "B2" indicating side and stamper.
• Center Labels: Text must match official font styles and spacing—no typos.

When purchasing online, request clear photos of all sides of the record, label, jacket, and any included materials. Reputable sellers on Discogs provide detailed grading and return policies.

Tips for Playing and Preserving Your Copy

Proper care ensures your A Very Special Christmas 2 vinyl album delivers optimal sound and lasts for generations. Follow these best practices:

1. Clean Before Play: Use a carbon fiber brush or wet-cleaning kit to remove dust.
2. Use Correct Tracking Force: Set your turntable stylus pressure between 1.5–2.0 grams.
3. Store Properly: Keep vertical in a cool, dry place with protective outer sleeves.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV rays warp vinyl and fade artwork.
5. Play Sparingly: Limit frequent plays of rare pressings to reduce wear.

Consider digitizing your copy using a high-quality USB turntable and audio software like Audacity. This creates a backup and allows you to enjoy the music without risking damage to the original disc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Very Special Christmas 2 available on streaming services?

Yes, most tracks are available on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, though some edits differ slightly from the vinyl versions.

Why doesn’t the vinyl have all the songs from the CD?

Vinyl has physical time limitations per side (~22 minutes). Two tracks were omitted to maintain audio fidelity and prevent groove crowding.

Was Mariah Carey’s song on A Very Special Christmas 2 the original release of "All I Want for Christmas Is You"?

No—this is a demo version. The official single was released in 1994 on her Merry Christmas album.

Does buying the vinyl support the Special Olympics?

Only if purchased new from authorized reissues where royalties are directed to the organization. Secondhand sales do not generate new donations.

Are there plans for a new reissue of A Very Special Christmas 2 on vinyl?

As of 2024, no official announcements have been made, but given annual Record Store Day trends, a future repressing is possible.