Hip hop and Christmas might seem like an unlikely combination, but over the years, several artists have brought the festive spirit to the hip hop genre with their catchy and creative Christmas songs. These tracks are perfect for adding some bounce to your holiday playlist and infusing your celebrations with a dose of hip hop flavor. So, let’s take a look at some of the top hip hop Christmas songs that have become holiday classics.
One of the most iconic hip hop Christmas songs is “Christmas in Hollis” by RUN-DMC. Released in 1987, this track has since become a timeless holiday anthem. The song cleverly samples cheerful Christmas tunes and pairs them with RUN-DMC’s signature rap style, resulting in an infectious and joyful holiday banger. With its catchy chorus and witty lyrics, “Christmas in Hollis” has undoubtedly carved its place as a hip hop holiday staple.
Another popular hip hop Christmas track is “Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto” by Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Daz Dillinger. Released in 1996 as a part of the charity album “Christmas on Death Row,” this song delivers a unique blend of funk and hip hop. The smooth grooves, combined with the artists’ laid-back delivery, make this track a smooth and enjoyable addition to any holiday playlist. “Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto” not only spreads holiday cheer but also carries a message of hope and goodwill, making it a truly meaningful track.
A more recent addition to the hip hop Christmas repertoire is “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” by Chance the Rapper and Jeremih. This modern rendition of the classic holiday song showcases Chance the Rapper’s lyrical prowess alongside Jeremih’s soulful voice. The duo’s chemistry and infectious energy breathe new life into this Christmas favorite, infusing it with a refreshing dose of hip hop vibes. This collaboration is proof that hip hop artists can effortlessly merge their unique style with traditional holiday cheer.
“Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney is another song that has received the hip hop treatment. This time, it was courtesy of the talented rapper and producer, DMX. Known for his gritty delivery, DMX managed to put his own spin on this beloved Christmas hit. The track seamlessly blends hip hop beats with the original melody, creating a unique and unexpected twist that brings a whole new level of energy to McCartney’s timeless composition.
One cannot explore hip hop Christmas songs without mentioning the collective efforts of various artists who contributed to the holiday albums “A Very ROC Christmas” and “A Very ROC Christmas 2” by ROC Nation. These albums feature a diverse range of artists, including J. Cole, DJ Khaled, Fabolous, and many more, coming together to deliver modern and fresh renditions of traditional and contemporary Christmas classics. These albums showcase the versatility of hip hop artists and their ability to reimagine holiday songs while staying true to their personal styles.
In addition to these iconic tracks, several other hip hop artists have released their own Christmas songs over the years. Artists like Kanye West, Gucci Mane, and Tyler, The Creator have all contributed their unique flair to the holiday season with their festive tracks. These songs often incorporate witty lyrics, clever samples, and infectious beats, creating a dynamic mix of hip hop and Christmas cheer.
The fusion of hip hop and Christmas music has proven to be a delightful combination, providing us with an alternative to traditional holiday tunes. These festive tracks bring a fresh and vibrant energy to the season, making them perfect additions to any holiday playlist. So, this Christmas, why not amp up your celebrations with some hip hop Christmas classics and introduce a new rhythm to your holiday traditions?