The holiday season is in full swing. Even if you go all out with decorations during the holiday season, or you’re just not that into the holidays, the music is surely an aspect that everyone can enjoy. Here’s a list of holiday songs that I have on repeat during the season of festivities.
“Light’s On” by Tyler, the Creator (ft. Ryan Beatty and Santigold) (2018). Tyler, the Creator has a way of making ideas that don’t appear to work together, work. He does just that with “Lights On.” Ryan Beatty’s falsetto vocals combined with Tyler’s rapping makes the piece even more authentic. The sweet meaning behind the lyrics is sure to warm you up on a cold winter’s day (depending on where you live). The song is off of Tyler’s extended play, Music Inspired by Illumination & Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, a stellar collection.
“This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway (1970). A pure classic that never gets old. Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas” has become a standard, it’s purely R&B sound dominating the holidays. Hathaway effortlessly belts the groovy and soulful melody out. The upbeat tempo makes you want to get up and dance. Many artists have covered his song, but will never live up to the genius that is Donny Hathaway.
“All I Want for Christmas is You (So So Def Remix)” by Mariah Carey (ft. Jermaine Dupri and Lil Bow Wow) (2003). Most people know “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” It’s kind of hard to not know the song. It’s usually one of the first songs you hear when you turn on the radio during the holidays. But as someone who thoroughly appreciates an R&B flare, the So So Def Remix of this holiday classic surely makes it onto all of my Christmas playlists. Carey’s flawless voice and light background vocals can be clearly heard over a thumping beat. In my opinion, this is the better version.
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Sam Smith (2014). When I first heard Sam Smith’s version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” I was a little surprised at how much it impacted me. It starts without any instrumental, a simple acapella of the beginning verse. Then it builds. The simple piano accompaniment is perfect, as it does not overpower Smith’s pristine voice. Their version may move you to tears.
“Give Love On Christmas Day” by Ledisi (2008). The R&B and jazz songstress Ledisi’s holiday album It’s Christmas, has Christmas classics with her own twist. My favorite off of the album has to be “Give Love On Christmas Day.” Ledisi builds from a soft to a strong, powerful belt accompanied with commanding horns to carry the message across. An outstanding version.
“Santa Claus is Coming to Town” by the Jackson 5 (1970). The Jackson 5’s entire Christmas album has been blasted in my house for as long as I can remember. But their enthusiastic version of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” always leaves me shouting the words without a care in the world. It’s a lot more fast-paced and exciting than the standard.
“Someday at Christmas” by Andra Day & Stevie Wonder (2016). There is nothing I love more than new artists working with the ones that came before them. Andra Day and Stevie Wonder’s version of “Someday at Christmas” is sure to have you hugging your friends and family closer. The joyous and hopeful atmosphere that this song creates always keeps me in a spirited mood throughout the holiday season.