The holiday season is here! While emotions vary depending on each individual, traditional Christmas songs usually evoke strong feelings of joy, nostalgia, and connection. Some artists have proven their abilities to melodically reinvent traditional Christmas songs, while also creating new ones. As a result, here are 5 Soulful Christmas songs that remain essential for every holiday playlist.
“The Christmas Song” – Nat King Cole (1961)
“The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole, Courtesy of Capitol Records.
“The Christmas Song” was first recorded by the velvet voiced Nat King Cole, and his trio in June 1946. The second version featured a string section released later that year. After it became a major hit, Cole recorded the song again in 1953 and 1961. The 1961 stereo version was widely regarded as definitive. The song has since been covered by numerous artists including Bing Crosby, Perry Como, and Christina Aguilera. It remains one of the most-performed Christmas song of all time.
“Give Love On Christmas Day” – Jackson 5 (1970)
“Give Love on Christmas Day” by the Jackson 5, Courtesy of Motown Records
Extracted from the Jackson 5 Christmas Album (1970), “Give Love on Christmas Day” remains one of the season’s most memorable classics. Brilliantly delivered by a then 11-year-old King of Pop, the song was also known for its dreamy melodic content. Written by Motown’s songwriting-producing team, The Corporation, the song features lyrics that encourage giving love during the holiday season. The track was well- received critically upon release and has since been covered by various artists. These artists included, the Temptations, New Edition, and Johnny Gill . Since its original release, the song is included on A Motown Christmas in 1973. It has also been re-released in various formats
“This Christmas” – Donny Hathaway(1970)
“This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway, Courtesy of Atlantic Records.
With this opening lyric alone, no song seems to define the Christmas holiday like this song right here. Co-written by the legendary Donny Hathaway, the song initially saw little success at the time of its release. Its popularity eventually grew, and has become a modern Christmas standard. With it’s delightful fusion of jazz, classical and vibrant R&B soul, the sound remains unmatched. The song’s structure was intentionally crafted to create a sense of lingering celebration and connection.
The song’s enduring legacy is enhanced by its frequent performances and numerous covers by a multitude of prominent artists. These artists include, Christina Aguilera, Chris Brown. To date, “This Christmas” has charted on multiple Billboard charts, cementing its status as an eternal Christmas staple.
“Silent Night” – The Temptations (1980)
“Silent Night” by the Temptations, Courtesy of Motown Records.
Known for their choreography, distinctive harmonies, and signature style of dress, the Temptations became one of Motown’s leading acts. The Grammy-winning quintet’s smooth delivery of “Silent Night”, is still considered to be one of the absolute best. They originally recorded a different version of the song for their album The Temptations Christmas Card (1970). However, their most well-known version was recorded for their album Give Love At Christmas (1980). This version remains an enduring staple of rhythm and blues radio during the holiday season. It is also cited as a highlight of the group’s musical catalog.
“All I Want for Christmas Is You”- Mariah Carey (1994)
“All I Want For Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey, Courtesy of Columbia Records.
Co-written and co-produced with Walter Afanasieff, this Christmas staple remains a perennial favorite. With its 1960s doo-wop vibe, the song is often dubbed the “unofficial song of Christmas” due to its enduring popularity. Released as the lead single from her holiday album Merry Christmas(1994), the song has become a defining modern Christmas classic. The song has since attained global dominance, annually re-entering charts worldwide. It has also been certified Diamond in other countries, including Australia, Sweden and Canada.
To date, the song has sold over 16 million copies worldwide. In the US alone, the song has unanimously become one of the biggest-selling Christmas songs of all time. In conclusion, Christmas music fosters enjoyment and serenity by acting as an escape during trying times. For those who feel isolated during the holiday season, certain Christmas songs are that warm, lingering hug that’s desperately needed. This proves that whether they are old or new, the perfect soulful Christmas songs can cure any sadness.
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