Stax Records Soulful Christmas Classics Revive Holiday Spirit

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with some soulful Christmas classics? For many, Christmas music is an integral part of the holiday experience, evoking memories of family gatherings, presents, and warm, fuzzy feelings. One of the most iconic labels to capture the essence of Christmas music is Stax Records, a legendary Memphis-based label that was home to some of the most influential soul and R&B artists of the 1960s and 1970s.

From Isaac Hayes to Otis Redding, Stax Records was the go-to destination for soulful, heartfelt music that spoke to the very soul. And when it came to Christmas music, the label's artists did not disappoint. With their unique blend of soul, R&B, and gospel, Stax Records' Christmas classics are the perfect way to revive your holiday spirit.

Isaac Hayes' Soulful Christmas

One of the most iconic Christmas albums to come out of Stax Records is Isaac Hayes' "The Isaac Hayes Movement Presents Merry Christmas" (1970). This album is a masterclass in soulful, jazzy Christmas music, with Hayes' smooth, velvety voice bringing new life to classic holiday tunes like "Winter Wonderland" and "The First Noel". But what really sets this album apart is its unique blend of soul, R&B, and gospel, making it a must-listen for fans of Christmas music.

A Soulful Christmas Playlist

But "The Isaac Hayes Movement Presents Merry Christmas" is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Stax Records' soulful Christmas classics. Here are some other essential tracks to add to your holiday playlist:

• Otis Redding's "Merry Christmas, Baby" (1968) - A soulful, bluesy take on the classic holiday tune.
• Carla Thomas' "Gee Whiz, It's Christmas" (1963) - A fun, upbeat track that captures the excitement of the holiday season.
• The Emotions' "What Do the Lonely Do at Christmas" (1973) - A heartfelt, soulful ballad that explores the emotions of the holiday season.
• The Staple Singers' "Who Took the Merry Out of Christmas" (1972) - A gospel-infused track that questions the commercialization of Christmas.

The Story Behind Stax Records' Christmas Classics

So, what makes Stax Records' Christmas classics so special? According to Rob Bowman, author of "Soulsville, U.S.A.: The Story of Stax Records", it's the label's unique blend of soul, R&B, and gospel that sets its Christmas music apart. "Stax Records was all about creating music that came from the heart and soul," Bowman explains. "And when it came to Christmas music, the label's artists really brought that sense of soul and heart to the table."

But it wasn't just the music that made Stax Records' Christmas classics so special. The label's artists were also known for their sense of community and camaraderie, which is reflected in the music they made. "The Stax Records family was all about supporting each other and creating music that brought people together," says Al Bell, former president of Stax Records. "And that sense of community and camaraderie is really what makes our Christmas music so special."

Stax Records' Christmas Legacy

Today, Stax Records' Christmas classics continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans of all ages. And it's not just the music itself that's enduring - it's also the sense of community and camaraderie that the label's artists embodied. "Stax Records' Christmas music is more than just a collection of songs - it's a way of life," says Isaac Hayes' daughter, Veronica Hayes. "It's about coming together, supporting each other, and celebrating the things that bring us joy."

So, this holiday season, why not give Stax Records' soulful Christmas classics a listen? With their unique blend of soul, R&B, and gospel, these tracks are sure to revive your holiday spirit and bring you closer to the things that truly matter.

Share Your Favorite Stax Records Christmas Classics

We'd love to hear from you - what are your favorite Stax Records Christmas classics? Do you have a special holiday tradition that involves listening to Stax Records music? Share your stories and favorite tracks with us in the comments below!

And don't forget to share this article with your friends and family - after all, that's what the holiday season is all about!