Black holiday music reflects community, spirituality, and timeless themes of the season.
Iconic songs by Mariah Carey, Donny Hathaway, and others have become holiday staples.
The playlist showcases the diversity and soulfulness of Black Christmas music.
Source: Kevin Mazur / Getty
The Holiday season is officially in full swing, and if there’s one thing our community knows how to do, it’s set the vibe. The lights, the food, the matching pajamas. None of it hits the same without a soundtrack that feels like home. Check out the ultimate Black Christmas playlist inside.
Black artists have shaped the sound of Christmas for generations, blending gospel roots, soul, R&B, funk, and pop into holiday songs that feel warm, familiar, and festive. Whether you grew up waking to your parents blasting Donny Hathaway on Christmas morning or discovered the magic of Mariah Carey’s whistle notes on your own, these records are woven into the rhythm of Black holiday culture.
What makes a Black Christmas playlist special isn’t just the songs, but the special feeling behind them. Our holiday music carries joy, nostalgia, hope, and sometimes a little heartache. These artists created seasonal staples that return every year like tradition. From powerhouse vocals to smooth harmonies and messages that push for a better world, these songs remind us of what the season is really about: togetherness, giving, reflection, and love.
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No living room is complete without the warmth of Nat King Cole’s velvet tone drifting through the speakers. No holiday party is official until TLC’s “Sleigh Ride” turns it into an instant vibe. And no Christmas morning is complete without Donny welcoming the day like an old friend. These songs are woven into our cultural memory, passed down across generations, playlists, and family gatherings.
So as Christmas nears, we put together the ultimate Black Christmas playlist. Enjoy these timeless essentials that capture the soul of the season. Whether you’re cooking, wrapping gifts, or just sitting by the tree soaking in the moment, these songs offer that signature blend of nostalgia and joy that only Black artists can deliver. If you’re building your holiday soundtrack, this list will give it the warmth, groove, and spirit it’s been missing.
Check out the ultimate Black Christmas playlist below:
Stevie Wonder, Andra Day – “Someday at Christmas”
A hopeful classic calling for peace and unity. Decades later, its message still resonates.
Boyz II Men & Brian McKnight – “Let It Snow”
Smooth, romantic, and pure ’90s R&B warmth. The definition of cozy vibes.
Mariah Carey – “All I Want for Christmas Is You”
The modern holiday anthem. Once the beat drops, Christmas has officially begun.
James Brown – “Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto”
A funky, soulful take on Christmas with social commentary and style.
Darlene Love – “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”
A powerhouse vocal performance that remains one of the most iconic Christmas songs ever.
The Jackson 5 – “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”
Youthful, playful, and unforgettable thanks to young Michael’s charm.
The Temptations – “Silent Night”
A soulful and reverent version that feels like a holiday ritual.
Nat King Cole – “The Christmas Song”
Warm, elegant, and timeless—the soundtrack to the season.
TLC – “Sleigh Ride”
A fun, energetic R&B twist perfect for holiday parties.
Donny Hathaway – “This Christmas”
The ultimate holiday classic. Soulful, joyful, and essential every year.
Whitney Houston – “Who Would Imagine a King”
Whitney’s angelic vocals make this song one of the most emotional Christmas recordings of all time. Featured on The Preacher’s Wife soundtrack, it’s a gentle, spiritual reminder of the true meaning of the holiday season.
Destiny’s Child – “8 Days of Christmas”
This early-2000s bop is still a holiday favorite thanks to its playful lyrics, girl-group harmonies, and festive R&B swagger. Destiny’s Child created one of the most stylish Christmas tracks of their era.
KEM – “Christmas Time Is Here”
KEM’s signature smooth tone transforms this beloved classic into something warm, intimate, and soulful. It’s the perfect soundtrack for slow mornings, gift wrapping, or a quiet night in.
Chris Brown – “This Christmas”
While Donny Hathaway’s version remains the standard, Chris Brown’s modern cover has become a seasonal staple in its own right. His vocals bring youthful energy to the timeless track, making it popular for holiday movies, parties, and playlists.
Anita Baker – “Moonlight Sleighride”
Anita Baker brings her buttery tone to this jazzy, romantic holiday gem. It’s elegant, cozy, and perfect for grown-and-sexy holiday vibes.
Alicia Keys – “December Back 2 June”
Alicia Keys created a modern Christmas love song with her soulful warmth and tender storytelling. It’s a fresh addition to the holiday canon with a contemporary R&B twist.
Kirk Franklin & The Family – “Now Behold the Lamb”
A Christmas season in the Black community is not complete without gospel classics, and this one stands among the greats. Kirk Franklin delivers a deeply moving worship experience that sets the tone for spiritual reflection.
Mary J. Blige – “My Favorite Things”
Mary J. Blige adds her signature emotion and power to this reimagined holiday standard. It blends soulful delivery with a cinematic feel that makes it perfect for setting an elegant holiday mood.
PJ Morton’s New Orleans roots shine through in this reggae, upbeat take on “Winter Wonderland.” It brings a lively bounce, vibrant horns, and Black southern holiday joy to the playlist.
The Braxtons – “Mary, Did You Know?”
The Braxton sisters’ harmonies elevate this emotional Christmas ballad into something rich and soulful. Their vocal blending gives the song a gorgeous gospel-inspired feel.
Quad City DJz & 69 Boyz – “What You Want For Christmas”
A southern-bass classic, “What You Want For Christmas” brings humor, nostalgia, and pure ’90s energy to the holiday season. With its playful storytelling and signature booty-bass sound, this track is a staple at Black family functions where the playlist bounces from gospel to hip-hop without warning. It’s fun, chaotic, and undeniably ours.
Tyler, the Creator ft. Ryan Beatty & Santigold– “Lights On”
From The Grinch soundtrack, Tyler delivers a dreamy, atmospheric Christmas song that feels warm, modern, and unexpectedly tender. “Lights On” blends alternative R&B and soulful melodies, creating a holiday vibe that feels just right for late-night decorating or winter drives. It has quickly become a contemporary favorite among younger listeners.
Kirk Franklin – “Jesus Is the Reason for the Season“
Another one from Kirk Franklin, delivering the ultimate reminder of the season’s meaning. Backed by choir harmonies and Franklin’s signature energy, this song is joyful, uplifting, and perfect for Christmas morning.
Johnny Gill – “Give Love on Christmas Day“
Johnny Gill brings powerhouse vocals to this heartfelt classic. His version is emotional, soulful, and packed with vocal magic that makes it a standout among ’90s R&B holiday songs.
Faith Evans – “Santa Baby“
Faith Evans puts an R&B spin on this playful holiday standard, serving vocals, charm, and a little flirtation. Her version is smooth and stylish, giving the classic a fresh, soulful feel.
CeeLo Green – “What Christmas Means to Me“
CeeLo gives a funky and joyful spin to this Stevie Wonder favorite. His energetic delivery and vibrant instrumentation make it perfect for decorating, dancing, or kicking off a lively holiday gathering.
Happy Holidays! Enjoy these classics with the family. Comment your favorite Christmas song below.
