Find the best new holiday music for your upcoming party
As the 2024 holiday season approaches, several Black artists have released festive albums that blend traditional cheer with contemporary flair. Here are some standout holiday albums from Black musicians this year:
Brandy – Christmas with Brandy
Brandy’s first holiday album, Christmas with Brandy, showcases her signature R&B style across twelve tracks, including six original songs and six classic covers. The lead single, “Christmas Party for Two,” sets a romantic tone for the season. Released on November 10, 2023, the album has been well-received, debuting at number 29 on the US Top Holiday Albums chart.
CeCe Winans – Joyful, Joyful: A Christmas Album
Gospel legend CeCe Winans returns with her second holiday album, Joyful, Joyful: A Christmas Album. Featuring her powerful vocals, the album includes traditional carols and original compositions that celebrate the spirit of the season. The single “Joy to the World” highlights Winans’ uplifting approach to holiday music.
PJ Morton – Christmas with PJ Morton
Grammy-winning artist PJ Morton delivers Christmas with PJ Morton, infusing holiday standards with his unique blend of soul and R&B. The album includes collaborations with artists like Yolanda Adams and features Morton’s soulful interpretations of classics such as “This Christmas” and “Winter Wonderland.”
Fantasia – Christmas After Midnight
Fantasia’s Christmas After Midnight showcases her dynamic vocals on a collection of holiday favorites. The album blends jazz, blues, and soul, offering a unique and heartfelt take on the season’s classics.
John Legend – A Legendary Christmas
John Legend’s A Legendary Christmas brings his smooth vocals to holiday classics and original songs. The album features collaborations with artists like Stevie Wonder and Esperanza Spalding, adding a soulful touch to the festive season.
Mary J. Blige – A Mary Christmas
Mary J. Blige’s A Mary Christmas showcases her powerful voice on traditional holiday songs. The album includes collaborations with artists like Barbra Streisand and The Clark Sisters, blending soulful renditions with classic melodies.
Toni Braxton – Snowflakes
Toni Braxton’s Snowflakes offers a mix of original songs and holiday classics, all delivered with her signature sultry voice. The album provides a soulful and romantic soundtrack for the holiday season.
Boyz II Men – Christmas Interpretations
Boyz II Men’s Christmas Interpretations features their harmonious vocals on a collection of original holiday songs. The album offers a fresh take on the season, blending R&B with festive themes.
Destiny’s Child – 8 Days of Christmas
Destiny’s Child’s 8 Days of Christmas brings an R&B twist to holiday music, featuring both original songs and classic covers. The album showcases the group’s signature harmonies and festive spirit.
These albums provide a rich tapestry of holiday music, reflecting the diverse talents and styles of Black artists in 2024.