Four Undisputed Holiday Jams
Leaves are finally falling, and the hot, sweltering afternoons under the sun behind us. We’re finally entering that joyful part of the year – holiday season! Holidays are synonymous with warmth, nostalgia, and the joys of togetherness filling our homes with love and serving as the canvas of cultural expression. And as we transition into this season, I’m often reminded of the incredible ambiance and spirit it brings.
From spooky cobwebs adorning Halloween decor, to reindeer gracing the front yards of family homes, traditions invite kids to make their list and check them twice. Yet, as we embrace the festivities, it's essential that we highlight how the music accompanying our celebrations not only serves as a soundtrack, but also embodies pride in our identity and legacy.
When we consider holiday scores, Black artists have made such a lasting impact, crafting festive tunes that resonate deeply with our rich heritage. It’s important for us to continue pouring into this part of our cultural landscape. By tapping into the creation of holiday music, creating holiday classics that resonate with generations can be just as iconic as Mariah Carey’s success on, All I Want for Christmas Is You.
Some of the most quintessential holiday anthems have been captured by black artists capturing the essence of love, community, and even longing. Emerging artists have the opportunity to build on this legacy, enriching their own personal experiences with family and the current state of the world to bring towards that feeling of togetherness, making it relevant for success for today’s audiences. Also tapping into this lane of creation can open doors to collaborating with filmmakers, advertisers, and event planners, further expanding your reach and impact in the industry.
Here are a few notable musicians who have made big contributions to holiday music:
Screamin’ Jay Hawkins - I Put a Spell on You
I Put a Spell on You is renowned for its haunting vocals and dramatic delivery, originally performed by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. The track has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Marilyn Manson and Annue Lennox, and has appeared in iconic films like Hocus Pocus and Joker. Hawkins’ original rendition is a true performance piece, featuring eerie sound effects and a tone that evokes a sense of dark romance. Although it didn’t chart on Billboard’s pop or R&B lists, it became one of his greatest commercial successes, selling over a million copies. Screamin’ Jay’s distinctive growls and moans have solidified this track as a Halloween classic making it a favorite for spooky celebrations.
Ray Parker Jr. - Ghostbusters
Ray Parker Jr.’s Ghostbusters, dropped in 1984, is a classic anthem that became the heartbeat of the iconic film. Tailored for the movie, the track is packed with a catchy hook and a vibe that captures the innocent and fun side of ghostbusting. Parker’s energetic vocals catapulted the song straight to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1984, where it reigned for three whole weeks. Despite the track stirring up some drama for sounding like Huey Lewis and the News, Parker’s style scored him a Grammy nod for Best Pop Male Vocal Performance. Till this day, Ghostbusters stands as a strong Halloween staple with its unforgettable chorus and playful vibe.
Donny Hathaway - This Christmas
Donny Hathaway's "This Christmas," dropped in 1970, is a soulful holiday jam that’s become a must-have for any festive playlist. With his powerful vocals and genuine emotion, Hathaway captures the joy and warmth of the season, making us feel all the feels. Featured on his album Evergreen, the song has stood the test of time, showing up in movies and commercials and getting love from artists across genres who cover it. Its rich blend of R&B and jazz vibes sets the perfect tone for holiday gatherings. With an unforgettable chorus and a message about togetherness, "This Christmas" is a classic that reminds us what the season is really about.
The Temptations - The Temptations’ Christmas Card
The Temptations' Christmas Card, dropped in 1970, is a holiday gem that brings their smooth Motown vibes to the season. With tracks like "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" and the original "My Christmas Tree," this album is all about those warm, feel-good feels. Their amazing harmonies and soulful melodies make it a must-have for holiday gatherings. It’s the perfect soundtrack for nostalgia and good times, reminding us why The Temptations are holiday classics.