Get into the holiday spirit with BK Reader's curated selection of soulful classics and festive favorites!
From Donny Hathaway’s timeless “This Christmas,” to Nat King Cole’s elegant “O Tannenbaum,” this playlist has it all. Relive the nostalgia of Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” and feel the groove with James Brown’s “Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto.”
Whether you’re opening presents or hosting a gathering, these tracks will bring warmth and joy to your holiday season!
1. "This Christmas" by Donny Hathaway
- Often referred to as the "Black National Anthem of Christmas," this 1970 classic is a staple in many households during the holiday season.
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2. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" by Mariah Carey
- Released in 1994, this song has become a modern Christmas standard, showcasing Carey's powerful vocals and festive spirit.
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3. “Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" by Brenda Lee
- This upbeat 1958 tune captures the festive spirit and is a must-have on any Christmas playlist.
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4. "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Michael Bublé
- Bublé's smooth vocals bring a modern touch to this classic, making it a holiday favorite since its release in 2011.
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5. "Let It Snow" by Boyz II Men feat. Brian McKnight
- This 1993 rendition blends smooth R&B harmonies, making it a soulful addition to any holiday playlist.
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6. "Someday at Christmas" by Stevie Wonder
- A 1967 release, Wonder's hopeful lyrics and soulful delivery make this song a timeless holiday favorite.
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7. "Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano
- Released in 1970, this bilingual song spreads holiday cheer across cultures.
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8. "Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto" by James Brown
- Released in 1968, this song combines Brown's signature funk style with a heartfelt holiday message.
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9. "Santa Tell Me" by Ariana Grande
- A modern addition to holiday music, Grande's 2014 song has quickly become a favorite.
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10. "Merry Christmas Baby" by Otis Redding
- Redding's 1968 soulful rendition of this bluesy Christmas tune adds a heartfelt touch to any holiday gathering.
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11. "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby
- This 1942 classic is one of the best-selling singles of all time, evoking nostalgia for a snowy holiday season.
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12. "O Tannenbaum," also known as "O Christmas Tree," by Nat King Cole
- This popular holiday song was first released on October 3, 1960, as part of Cole’s album The Magic of Christmas and is one of his signature hits to date.
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13. "Every Year, Every Christmas" by Luther Vandross
- Released in 1995, Vandross's emotive performance makes this song a soulful holiday favorite.
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14. "Linus and Lucy" by pianist and composer Vince Guaraldi
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An iconic, upbeat and playful jazz composition originally released in 1964, this timeless classic that became synonymous with the Peanuts gang, serving as the theme music for A Charlie Brown Christmas and other Peanuts specials.
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