Now is the time to start spreading Christmas happiness, as the loveliest season of the year has arrived. The Christmas season has officially begun, and the music accompanying it is one of its best parts, along with the decorations, discounts, meals, and welcome break. Even though we live in a time of extraordinary change, there are certain constants, and the beauty of Black Christmas music is one of them. Whether it’s the music you listened to during your first Christmas with your sweetheart in your new home, your last Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa’s, or that crazy journey overseas to experience something new, we all have a soundtrack of the times. Melodies that celebrate children’s purity are adorable, so soulful music may be a source of solace during difficult times. Love songs are sweet melodies that make the world go round and Uplifting music with a festive theme is excellent for those feeling down. The religious significance of the season is highlighted through the creative arrangements of classic songs. Come along as we take a trip through time with the top 5 Black Christmas songs of all time!
Silent Night – The Temptations
The Temptations had a banner year in 1970 thanks to the success of their several holiday singles. The most popular version of “Silent Night” is the group’s rendition, which is still sung yearly as a part of Christmas celebrations. Listen to “Silent Night” by The Temptations, who brought the song into the mainstream, and bask in their timeless sound this holiday season. Put on holiday music from The Temptations, cuddle up with a loved one, and enjoy a cup of eggnog by the fire.
Merry Christmas, Baby – Otis Redding
The holiday classic “Merry Christmas, Baby” is perfect for sharing your joy with a loved one. Otis Redding’s rendition of “Jingle Bells” was a huge smash, and his soulful take on the song made the classic even more impressive. Otis Redding’s rendition of “Merry Christmas, Baby” is the perfect accompaniment to a romantic meal (or a cozy night on the sofa) with the person you love most this holiday season.
Let It Snow – Ella Fitzgerald
With her classic 1960 single “Let It Snow,” the “Queen of Soul” will bring a touch of retro elegance to your holiday soundtrack. It was the first time Ella had ever recorded a Christmas song, and it was included on an album of holiday standards. You’ll find yourself humming along to this tune whether you like it. Include this track in your Christmas playlist and listen to it while snow falls, setting the stage for a white holiday.
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus – The Jackson 5
The Jackson 5 released their classic song “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” on a Christmas album in 1970. The Jackson 5 Christmas Album, loaded with seasonal favorites, dominated Billboard’s holiday album charts for four consecutive weeks. Later, it sold over 3.5 million copies all over the globe. The song “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” is a fan favorite and a highlight of the CD. Put this on loud and sing along with all your favorite Christmas carols.
This Christmas – Donny Hathaway
Donny Hathaway’s version of “This Christmas” is so iconic that it must be included on every comprehensive Christmas playlist. The fire in the fireplace brightens a little bit whenever this song begins playing. Although it was initially released in 1971, this uplifting song sounds excellent from start to finish, even now.
Anand Subramanian is a freelance photographer and content writer based out of Tamil Nadu, India. Having a background in Engineering always made him curious about life on the other side of the spectrum. He leapt forward towards the Photography life and never looked back. Specializing in Documentary and Portrait photography gave him an up-close and personal view into the complexities of human beings and those experiences helped him branch out from visual to words. Today he is mentoring passionate photographers and writing about the different dimensions of the art world.