The tunefulness of the song “This Christmas” has been harmonized vocally and instrumentally by probably the most gifted musical craftsmen on earth. In the song, they offer their happiness and interpretations of love, family, and the holiday season. The song was written by the late great Donny Hathaway and co-composed with the skilled Nadine McKinnor and was released in 1970. So many great artists around the world have recreated ” This Christmas” such as Gladys Knight and the Pips, Aretha Franklin, The Temptations, John Legend, Usher, Mary J. Bilge, Freddie Jackson, and Chris Brown in addition to many others.
“This Christmas” brings recollections of being with our loved ones during the holiday season, the joy of giving, and what the spirit of Christmas means to a lot of us. Donny Hathaway’s unprecedented arrangement of gospel, r&b, and jazz was one of deep melodic achievements that will live on for eternity.
BackBeat R&B praises the 50th commemoration of this amazing immortal exemplary song. As his co-composer McKinnor articulately puts it, “This Christmas ” commends the conceivable outcomes, the desires, and the expectation of Christmas… Making the Christmas occasion more brilliant and joyous for all.”
With the present status of the country, just tuning in to this spiritual song can take one on an enthusiastic resonance. In years past, we had the option to go through the special seasons along with dear loved ones huddled around the tree “with the fireplace blazing and drinking hot chocolate with marshmallows as the night progressed.”
” This Christmas” is not only a song that will live on forever but has become a staple in the black community and as Imani Perry, Professor of African American Studies at Princeton University, once summed it up, ( to Christmas) as Maze’s “Before I Let Go” is to cookouts and as “Lift Every Voice and Sing” is to Martin Luther King Jr. breakfasts and HBCU graduations.” or as I say the song ” Family Reunion” is to Family Reunions.
Thank you, Mr. Hathaway and Ms. Mckinnor for your musical contributions that continue to bring so many of us close together for years to come.
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