15 Classic Christmas Songs By Black Artists

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with some classic Christmas tunes? While many of us are familiar with the traditional Christmas carols and standards, there's a rich history of Christmas music by Black artists that deserves more attention. From soulful crooners to funky divas, these 15 classic Christmas songs by Black artists are sure to spice up your holiday playlist.

Legendary Voices of Christmas Past

From the 1940s to the 1970s, some of the most iconic Black artists of all time recorded Christmas songs that have stood the test of time. These legendary voices helped shape the sound of Christmas music and paved the way for future generations of artists.

1. Nat King Cole - "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)"

Nat King Cole's smooth, velvety voice is synonymous with Christmas. His 1946 recording of "The Christmas Song" is a timeless classic that has been covered by countless artists, but Cole's original version remains the gold standard.

2. Ella Fitzgerald - "Sleigh Ride"

Ella Fitzgerald's infectious rendition of "Sleigh Ride" is a holiday staple. Her virtuosic vocals and impressive scat singing make this 1960 recording a must-listen.

3. Louis Armstrong - "Cool Yule"

Louis Armstrong's gravelly vocals bring a unique charm to "Cool Yule," a fun and upbeat Christmas song from 1953. Armstrong's trumpet playing is also on full display, adding to the song's jazzy vibe.

Soulful Sounds of Christmas

The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of soul and R&B, and Christmas music was no exception. These classic Christmas songs by Black artists showcase the soulful sounds of the era.

4. Aretha Franklin - "This Christmas"

Aretha Franklin's powerful vocals bring a sense of urgency to "This Christmas," a 1964 recording that's both soulful and sentimental.

5. James Brown - "Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto"

James Brown's funky take on Christmas is evident in "Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto," a 1968 song that's equal parts social commentary and holiday cheer.

6. The Temptations - "Silent Night"

The Temptations' harmonious vocals bring a sense of calm to "Silent Night," a 1970 recording that's both soothing and soulful.

Funky and Modern Christmas Sounds

The 1970s and 1980s saw the rise of funk and disco, and Christmas music was no exception. These classic Christmas songs by Black artists showcase the funky and modern sounds of the era.

7. The Jackson 5 - "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town"

The Jackson 5's energetic take on "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" is a holiday classic. Their 1970 recording is both fun and funky, with Michael Jackson's vocals shining bright.

8. Earth, Wind & Fire - "Winter Wonderland"

Earth, Wind & Fire's soulful take on "Winter Wonderland" is a 1977 recording that's both funky and festive.

9. Kool & the Gang - "Christmas Is a Time for Love"

Kool & the Gang's fun and upbeat "Christmas Is a Time for Love" is a 1983 song that's both catchy and memorable.

Contemporary Christmas Classics

In recent years, a new generation of Black artists has continued the tradition of creating classic Christmas songs. These contemporary Christmas classics are sure to become holiday staples.

10. Boyz II Men - "Silent Night"

Boyz II Men's smooth harmonies bring a sense of elegance to "Silent Night," a 1993 recording that's both soulful and soothing.

11. En Vogue - "My Christmas Wish"

En Vogue's sassy take on "My Christmas Wish" is a 1990 song that's both fun and festive.

12. Brian McKnight - "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year"

Brian McKnight's soulful vocals bring a sense of warmth to "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," a 1998 recording that's both classic and contemporary.

Gospel and Inspirational Christmas Songs

Gospel and inspirational music have long been a staple of Black culture, and Christmas music is no exception. These classic Christmas songs by Black artists showcase the power and beauty of gospel and inspirational music.

13. Mahalia Jackson - "O Holy Night"

Mahalia Jackson's powerful vocals bring a sense of reverence to "O Holy Night," a 1961 recording that's both soulful and inspiring.

14. The Clark Sisters - "Jesus Is the Reason for the Season"

The Clark Sisters' harmonious vocals bring a sense of joy to "Jesus Is the Reason for the Season," a 1986 song that's both uplifting and inspirational.

15. CeCe Winans - "Hallelujah"

CeCe Winans' soulful vocals bring a sense of elegance to "Hallelujah," a 1995 recording that's both classic and contemporary.

We hope you've enjoyed this journey through the world of classic Christmas songs by Black artists. From legendary voices to contemporary classics, these songs are sure to bring some much-needed soul and joy to your holiday season. So go ahead, create a playlist, and get ready to groove to the sounds of Christmas past and present!