Rappers Christmas Albums: A Hip-Hop Holiday Playlist

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with some festive tunes from the world of hip-hop? While Christmas albums might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of rap music, many notable rappers have ventured into the holiday genre, creating a unique blend of hip-hop and holiday cheer. In this article, we'll delve into the world of rappers' Christmas albums, exploring the history, highlights, and hidden gems of this niche genre.

From Run-DMC to Snoop Dogg, many iconic rappers have released Christmas albums over the years, each bringing their own brand of festive flair to the table. These albums often serve as a refreshing departure from the usual gangsta rap and street anthems, instead showcasing the artists' lighter, more playful side. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa and settle in as we take a journey through the world of rappers' Christmas albums.

The History of Rappers' Christmas Albums

The trend of rappers releasing Christmas albums began in the late 1980s, with Run-DMC's 1987 single "Christmas in Hollis" often credited as one of the pioneering tracks in the genre. This song's success paved the way for other rappers to explore the holiday genre, and by the 1990s, Christmas albums from hip-hop artists had become a staple of the season.

One of the most iconic rappers' Christmas albums is undoubtedly Snoop Dogg's 1996 album "Christmas in the Dogg House". This album features Snoop's signature smooth flow and laid-back beats, making it a holiday classic among hip-hop fans. Other notable rappers' Christmas albums from this era include LL Cool J's "Mr. Christmas" (1997) and Busta Rhymes' "The Lost Ones: The Christmas Album" (1998).

Modern Rappers' Christmas Albums

In recent years, the trend of rappers releasing Christmas albums has continued, with many modern artists putting their own spin on the holiday genre. One notable example is Kanye West's 2010 album "Christmas in Harlem", which features West's signature blend of hip-hop and electronic music.

Other modern rappers' Christmas albums worth checking out include Childish Gambino's "Christmas Magic" (2011) and Tyler, The Creator's "Music Inspired by Illumination & Dr. Seuss' The Grinch" (2018). These albums showcase the diversity and creativity of modern hip-hop, pushing the boundaries of what a Christmas album can be.

Hidden Gems and Deep Cuts

While some rappers' Christmas albums may be more well-known than others, there are many hidden gems and deep cuts worth exploring. One such example is E-40's 1995 album "Christmas in the Bay", which features the rapper's signature Bay Area style and is a must-listen for fans of West Coast hip-hop.

Another hidden gem is the 2013 album "A Very Special Christmas" by the hip-hop collective, Wu-Tang Clan. This album features a unique blend of hip-hop and holiday music, with each member of the group contributing their own festive track.

Best Rappers' Christmas Albums of All Time

With so many great rappers' Christmas albums out there, it's hard to narrow it down to just a few. However, here are some of the best rappers' Christmas albums of all time:

• Snoop Dogg - "Christmas in the Dogg House" (1996)
• Run-DMC - "A Very Special Christmas" (1987)
• Kanye West - "Christmas in Harlem" (2010)
• Childish Gambino - "Christmas Magic" (2011)
• E-40 - "Christmas in the Bay" (1995)

Conclusion

Rappers' Christmas albums may not be the most conventional holiday music, but they offer a unique and refreshing take on the traditional Christmas album. From Run-DMC to Snoop Dogg, many iconic rappers have ventured into the holiday genre, creating a diverse and exciting range of music.

Whether you're a die-hard hip-hop fan or just looking for something new to add to your holiday playlist, rappers' Christmas albums are definitely worth exploring. So, go ahead and give one a listen – you might just find your new favorite holiday album.