Not everyone is a fan of Christmas/holiday music. That’s why we put together a hand-selected playlist of blues, blues-rock and soul songs to rock your holidays. Some are unearthed gems, others are more popular, and a couple are very recently released. We hope you enjoy.
Please let us know what you think in the comments section below the last video.
Have a Happy Holiday Season!
The Rock and Blues Muse Team
“White Christmas/Wonderland” by Michael McDonald (feat. Jonny Lang) on Michael McDonald’s new album, Season of Peace released 2018. This tune has Michael McDonald’s beautiful, soulful vocals, fantastic piano and Lang’s unforgettable guitar riffs. Don’t miss this one.
“Christmas Tears” by the Paul Nelson Band, on the album, Blues Christmas, released in 2015. This rockin’ tune features Paul Nelson (Grammy winning guitarist with Johnny Winter) Morten Fredheim on vocals, Chris Alexander on bass, Chris Reddan on drums., Mike Dimeo on keys.
“Soulful Christmas” by the godfather of soul, James Brown. On the album of the same name, Soulful Christmas was released in 1968. A fun, funky tune to perk up any holiday.
“Christmas Date Blues” by blues rock titan Joe Bonamassa on his album, Rockin’ Christmas Blues, released in 2016. This song was written by Joe Bonamassa the guitar master himself. Look for the free song and album download on the video.
“Merry Christmas Baby” by BB King on his album, A Christmas Celebration of Hope, released in 2001. It is BB King’s 39th studio album and peaked #1 on the Billboard’s Top Blues Albums chart. Produced by King himself, the album earned him two Grammy Awards.
“Stay A Little Longer, Santa” by Shemekia Copeland on the album, Alligator Records Genuine Houserockin’ Christmas released in 2003. The album features Shemekia Copeland, Koko Taylor, Charlie Musslewhite, Elvin Bishop, Marcia Ball, and more.
“Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin’” by Albert King on his album, Christmas in Soulsville, released in 2007. Christmas in Soulsville features some of the biggest names in R&B/blues such as Albert King, Booker T. & The MGs, Issaac Hayes, Little Johnny Taylor and more.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Ruthie Foster on A Very Blue Rock Christmas released in 2013. You won’t hear another version like this bluesy version by the soulful Ruthie Foster.
“Christmas Comes But Once a Year” by BB King on A Christmas Celebration of Hope released (orig date) 2001 via Geffen records. No one does it like BB King and he does this song right. It is BB King’s 39th studio album and peaked #1 on the Billboard’s Top Blues Albums chart. Produced by King himself, the album earned him two Grammy Awards.
“Blue Christmas” by Nancy and Ann Wilson on the album A Very Special Christmas 2, released in 1992. This is the second in A Very Special Christmas series of Christmas-themed compilation albums produced to benefit Special Olympics. In December of 2001 this album went Double Platinum and as of 2014, it is the twenty first best-selling Christmas/holiday album in the U.S.
“Christmas All Over Again” by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers on the album A Very Special Christmas 2 in 1992. One of our great, lost rockers. This is the second in a A Very Special Christmas series of Christmas-themed compilation albums produced to benefit Special Olympics. In December of 2001 this album went Double Platinum and as of 2014, it is the twenty first best-selling Christmas/holiday album in the U.S.
“Home For the Holidays” by Eric Clapton on his album Happy Xmas released in 2018. His first Christmas album includes some of Clapton’s favorite holiday standards and one new original song. Clapton put his signature sound and arrangements to these timeless Christmas classics. Musicians include Eric Clapton on lead vocals and guitar, Doyle Bramhall II on guitar, Walt Richmond on piano and keys, Toby Baker on keys, Simon Climie on keys, acoustic guitar and percussion, and more. The album artwork was done by Eric Clapton.
“I Won’t be Home For Christmas” by Canned Heat on Canned Heat Christmas Album released in 2007. The 60’s blues band, Canned Heat rocks out on this tune.
Love it
Bobbie,
Glad you do. Thanks for commenting.
Richard,
So glad you enjoy it! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
what a great selection!!
Nice playlist! Merry Christmas, Baby!
David, Glad you enjoy. Thanks for commenting. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
This was awesome! Please sir…may I have some more? lol
Deb,
Glad you’re enjoying the playlist. Yes, we are going to put together another one soon. Thanks for commenting.