Chicago Journalists Release Christmas Album: Music Meets Media

Local reporters trade pens for microphones, raising funds for charity with holiday tunes

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:52pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering, glittery holiday textures like tinsel and ornaments, captured in dramatic, high-contrast studio lighting to create a glamorous, festive aesthetic.The Chicago Media Chorus' holiday album blends the serious world of journalism with the joyful spirit of the season, raising funds for a local nonprofit.Chicago Today

A group of Chicago journalists have come together to release a Christmas album, 'Chicago Carols for 2025', featuring holiday classics and original songs performed by local media personalities. The album, which costs $7 on Bandcamp, aims to raise money for the StreetWise nonprofit that empowers homeless and low-income individuals. The diverse lineup includes reporters, editors, and producers from outlets like Borderless Magazine, Block Club, and the former Chicago Tribune.

Why it matters

In an era where journalism is often criticized, this album serves as a refreshing reminder of the humanity and creativity within the media community. The project blends the serious, deadline-driven nature of reporting with a charitable, community-oriented spirit, challenging perceptions of journalists.

The details

The idea for the album was spearheaded by AJ LaTrace, a real estate reporter and former guitarist, and Casey Toner, an investigative journalist who has been releasing his own Christmas albums since 2020. They brought together a group of Chicago media personalities with varied musical backgrounds, from classical training to emo roots. The album features seven tracks, including a poignant original poem by former Chicago Tribune columnist Mary Schmich. Every penny from album sales goes to support StreetWise, a local nonprofit that empowers homeless and low-income individuals.

  • The album was released in December 2025.
  • The chorus has already raised nearly $450 of their $500 goal since the album's release.

The players

Mauricio Peña

A reporter from Borderless Magazine.

AJ LaTrace

A real estate reporter and former guitarist for the emo band The Academy Is ...

Casey Toner

An investigative journalist who has been releasing his own Christmas albums since 2020.

Chris Bentley

A radio producer.

Mary Schmich

A former columnist at the Chicago Tribune.

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What they’re saying

“Journalists already have bowling and softball leagues. Why not a Christmas album?”

— AJ LaTrace, Project leader

“Casey's a serious investigative reporter, but he's also got this creative music side. It's such a funny contrast.”

— AJ LaTrace, Project leader

“We had to set hard deadlines to make sure it happened. And thankfully, we crossed the finish line.”

— AJ LaTrace, Project leader

“We just hope to spread some holiday cheer, and maybe make this an annual tradition.”

— AJ LaTrace, Project leader

What’s next

The chorus hopes to make the Christmas album an annual tradition, encouraging more journalists to join the project in the future.

The takeaway

This album showcases the hidden talents and humanity of journalists, challenging the perception of them as solely serious and deadline-driven. It also demonstrates the media community's creativity and compassion, using their skills to raise funds for a worthy cause.