Sounds of Christmas: A Journey Through Music of the Season
The Christmas season is a wonderful time, and for me, music plays a central role in creating that festive spirit. Growing up in Jamaica it was the soundtrack to cherished memories. In this inaugural episode of Sounds and Color, I explore the music that shaped my childhood Christmases, including timeless hymns, Reggae carols, American classics and even Dancehall Riddims.
Whether you’re familiar with these songs or discovering them for the first time, join me on a nostalgic journey as we dive into the music that brings Christmas to life.
Covered in the episode:
Traditional Christmas Hymns: which signaled the arrival of the season. Songs like Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, and Hark the Herald Angels Sing. These hymns were sung during morning devotions at school, Sunday church services, and even the streets, where everyone, from the most devout churchgoers to the neighborhood characters, seemed to know the words. What’s your favorite Christmas hymn from childhood?
American Christmas Classics: even in the warmth of the Jamaican climate, American classics like Bing Crosby’s White Christmas and Nat King Cole’s The Christmas Song found their way into our homes. These songs, often heard in Hollywood movies like Home Alone, painted a picture of snowy holidays that felt like another world to a Jamaican child.
Reggae Christmas: A Genre of Its Own: Christmas in Jamaica wouldn’t be complete without reggae-infused carols. Artists like Jacob Miller and Carlene Davis brought their unique sounds to the season with songs like Silver Bells and Santa Claus, Do You Ever Come to the Ghetto. These tracks didn’t just entertain—they reflected the realities of Jamaican life, blending festive cheer with cultural storytelling. One of my all-time favorites is Santa Ketch Up in a Mango Tree by Faith D’Aguilar. Its playful lyrics remind me of how Jamaicans bring humor and creativity into every aspect of life, even holiday music. What’s your favorite reggae Christmas song?
The Jackson 5 Christmas Album. I’ll never forget the first time my grandmother brought home a cassette of the Jackson 5 Christmas album. Songs like I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus and The Little Drummer Boy became a beloved part of my holiday playlist. That album holds a special place in my heart, not just for its music, but for the memories it created. To this day, I still listen to it every Christmas, and now my kids do too. It’s a testament to how music can connect generations and keep loved ones close, even after they’re gone.
Dancehall Christmas Riddims: Back in the day, dancehall artists would release riddims during the Christmas season. It DID NOT mean the riddims were about Christmas. It was more about the timing of the release of the riddims. Miss Ivy Last Son is a riddim and also the name of a song by Bounty Killer – that was released during the Christmas season.
The Power of Music in Shaping Christmas Memories – For me, Christmas has never been about the gifts. It’s been about the feeling—the joy of community, the smell of delicious food, and, most importantly, the music. Songs like those from the SalSoul Orchestra bring back memories of school parties, family gatherings, and the warm embrace of my Jamaican heritage.
Music is a powerful way to preserve memories, connect to our roots, and create new traditions. As I reflect on the songs that shaped my Christmases, I hope you’re inspired to revisit your own holiday playlists and share the music that defines your season.
What’s Your Christmas Soundtrack?
Now it’s your turn! What songs make you feel the Christmas spirit? Whether it’s a hymn, a reggae classic, or a modern hit, I’d love to hear about the music that shaped your holidays.
Check out the playlist of the Christmas songs mentioned in this episode.
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