Black families often round out their holiday celebrations with singing. Depending on the amount of champagne or wine involved in get-togethers, the singing could begin with a half-forgotten rendition of Amazing Grace. Or a challenge to remember the words of great grandmother’s favorite hymn.
But it’s easier to remember lyrics when the songs center around Christmas. Everybody knows and loves traditional carols and hymns. The only struggle is who will lead the song or sing the solo — and a fight might break out when someone’s vocal expertise is challenged.
So, to add fuel to the fire, I’m giving you some new Christmas music in various genres. Belinda Merritt, executive producer and host for the Distinctively Gospel show on Baltimore’s AM 1230 WRBS Radio, helpfully gave me some recommendations from her show playlist.
Want to stream all our recommendations? Check out Word In Black’s “New Christmas Classics” Spotify playlist and read on to find out more about the artists we included:
1. Caleb Gordon
“Christmas in Eden Greatest Hits”
Gordon spits a bit of faith in his 2022 album “Christmas in Eden Greatest Hits.” His song “Christmas Day” might get your gathering singing and dancing.
2. Brandy
“Christmas with Brandy”
“Christmas with Brandy” is a soulful holiday album from R&B icon Brandy. The 2023 release offers a warm and modern take on the season’s classics. We can get down with this version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
3. DOE
“Note to Self”
With her powerful voice and emotionally resonant songwriting, DOE’s 2024 six-song EP invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys while embracing God’s love and guidance. Check out “Holy Hands.”
4. Anthony Evans
“The Greatest Gift”
This soulful and uplifting Christmas album captures the true spirit of the season and blends gospel, pop, and contemporary worship to deliver fresh takes on beloved holiday classics alongside original songs.
5. Jennifer Hudson
“The Gift of Love”
From “Hallelujah” to “Winter Wonderland,” Hudson’s first album of holiday classics treats us to Hudson’s powerful voice, belting out memorable renditions of holiday classics alongside original songs. We are all in for the track “Santa for Someone.”
6. Jonathan McReynolds
“Red and Green”
“Red and Green” by Jonathan McReynolds is a refreshing holiday album that beautifully blends gospel, soul, and acoustic vibes with the warmth of the Christmas season. You’ll want to add songs like “Don’t Take Christmas” to your playlist.
7. Ruben Studdard
“My Favorite Holiday”
The American Idol season two winner recently released his first Christmas EP. Studdard wrote the track “My Favorite Holiday,” which he said in an interview in October is inspired by how “Christmas has forever and will always be my favorite holiday.”
8. Tedashii
“‘Tis the Season”
Tedashii’s new Christmas album includes classics as well as a few originals. His upbeat track “Merry Christmas” is undoubtedly tailor-made for a group sing-along.
9. Tower of Power
“It’s Christmas”
Released in September, the legendary R&B group’s first Christmas album features nine reimagined holiday classics and two original Christmas tracks. We’re partial to “The Christmas Song.”
10. CeCe Winans
“Joyful, Joyful: A Christmas Album”
This recently released 12-track album is CeCe Winans’ second solo journey into the world of Christmas music, and it’s nothing short of a celebration. From beloved classics to fresh originals, Winans brings her warmth and powerhouse vocals to every note — creating an invitation to embrace the spirit of the season with faith and some “Joy To The World.”
