Mannheim Steamroller, 1984+
Not to be confused with that other instrumental group associated with the holidays (their turn comes next week), Mannheim Steamroller’s takes on holiday standards are wonderful examples of modernizing traditional music.
Tag Archives: favorite
My Favorite Christmas Songs #14
“Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town,” Bruce Springsteen, 1975
Recorded live at C.W. Post College in Greenvale, New York, The Boss sounds like he’s having a ball performing this staple. The banter between Bruce, The E Street Band, and the audience at the start adds an extra layer of fun to the song.
My Favorite Christmas Songs #10
“Santa Claus and His Old Lady,” Cheech and Chong, 1971
Our two favorite high guys present a more, shall I say, ‘urban’ take on Santa’s origin as Cheech tries to explain him to Chong with hilarious results. One of the comedy duo’s best routines, and one of the few you will actually hear on the radio, even in these overly PC times. Come on, Beto!
My Favorite Christmas Songs #9
“Do They Know It’s Christmas?” Band Aid, 1984
Recorded to raise money for Ethiopia famine relief, this song began the ‘charity single’ wave of the 1980s that reached its nadir (in the US, at least) with the release of “We Are The World” the following year. Primarily featuring artists from Britain and Ireland, the song’s lyrics, driving bass line, and Phil Collins’ drum work make it a good listen despite the somber subject matter.
Eduardo Soliz 