As the holiday season approaches, The Sound Cafe Magazine is excited to spotlight the talent of Canadian artists through a carefully curated collection of contemporary Christmas songs. This special feature highlights some of the most remarkable and heartfelt holiday music by Canadian artists who are making waves in the music industry today.
So why are we turning our focus to these exceptional artists this season? Here's why:
Canada is home to a diverse and vibrant music scene, with artists across genres continually pushing boundaries. From pop to folk, rock to country, Canadian musicians have a unique way of blending their cultural heritage with modern sounds. By featuring contemporary Christmas songs from these songwriters, The Sound Cafe celebrates the creativity and artistry that Canadian musicians bring to the world stage. This holiday season, we’re showcasing voices that reflect the spirit of the season while offering something fresh and original.
While traditional Christmas music will always hold a special place in our hearts, contemporary Canadian songwriters are adding new perspectives to the holiday genre. Artists like Michael Bublé, Brett Kissel, The Sultans Of String and Andrea England are breathing new life into classic holiday themes, offering listeners a refreshing take on what Christmas music can be. Their songs reflect personal stories, modern-day sentiments, and even touch on themes of longing and nostalgia, providing a deeper emotional connection to the season.
Christmas music is often associated with joy, family gatherings, and festive cheer. However, the holiday season can also stir up complex emotions, ranging from loneliness and longing to introspection. By featuring a wide range of contemporary Christmas songs from Canadian artists, The Sound Cafe is capturing this balance between celebration and reflection. Whether it's Andrea England's melancholic "A Melancholy Christmas" or The Tenors' uplifting harmonies, these songs evoke a broad emotional spectrum, making them relatable for listeners in different stages of life.
One of the core missions of The Sound Cafe is to support and promote emerging artists. The holiday season is the perfect time to introduce readers to new music, and contemporary Christmas songs by Canadian songwriters offer an excellent opportunity to do so. Artists like Brett Kissel, Andrea England, and Lights are forging their own paths in the music world, and their holiday releases showcase their ability to create meaningful, lasting music that resonates with audiences. By featuring these tracks, we shine a spotlight on their evolving careers and offer our readers the chance to discover the next big thing in Canadian music.
Christmas music has a universal quality that connects people across cultures, but for Canadians, it often holds special significance. The harsh winters, the proximity to the North Pole, and the cultural diversity of Canada all influence how the holiday season is celebrated. By featuring songs from Canadian songwriters, The Sound Cafe offers an opportunity to explore the unique perspectives of artists who are deeply rooted in their Canadian identity, yet whose music reaches far beyond national borders. Their songs represent not only the spirit of Christmas but also the spirit of Canada itself.
As we navigate the challenges of modern life, music remains one of the most powerful ways to foster a sense of community and shared experience. Christmas music, in particular, has the ability to bring people together, whether it’s through caroling, playing songs in the background at family gatherings, or simply enjoying a holiday playlist. Featuring contemporary Canadian Christmas songs reinforces the idea that music is a shared experience that transcends individual boundaries. These songs invite us to reflect on the season and connect with others, whether near or far.
At The Sound Cafe, we believe that the holiday season is about more than just the familiar tunes that fill the airwaves every December. It's about celebrating the rich diversity of music and the creativity of contemporary songwriters. By featuring Christmas songs from Canadian artists, we are not only highlighting their incredible talents but also encouraging our readers to explore the fresh sounds and emotional depth these artists bring to the season. So, whether you're in the mood for festive cheer or a more reflective holiday vibe, we hope these Canadian Christmas songs will inspire, uplift, and connect you to the magic of the season.
Jesous Ahathonhia (Huron Carol) - Sultans of String, featuring Crystal Shawanda
A powerful and evocative rendition of one of North America's oldest Christmas carols, originally written by French missionary Jean de Brébeuf in the 1600s. The song blends Indigenous and Western musical traditions, with Shawanda's soulful vocals and the band's dynamic instrumentation creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. This rendition connects deeply to the holiday season, offering a reflection on cultural heritage, spiritual themes, and the warmth of community, while celebrating the rich diversity of Christmas music.
Home to You This Christmas - Blue Rodeo
A heartfelt and soulful holiday song that embodies the longing to be with loved ones during the festive season. With the band's signature harmonies and rich instrumentation, the track evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia. The lyrics express the yearning to overcome distances and challenges to reunite with the people who matter most. It's a poignant and beautifully crafted song that resonates with anyone who cherishes the joy of coming home for Christmas.
Santa Bring My Baby Back - Jeff Healey
A lively and rocking holiday track that showcases Healey's electrifying guitar skills and soulful vocals. A spirited take on the Elvis Presley classic, the song blends blues and rock 'n' roll energy with a festive twist. Its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics tell the story of someone asking Santa to reunite them with their love for Christmas, making it a fun and dynamic addition to any holiday playlist. Healey's charisma and musical flair shine, adding a fresh edge to this timeless holiday tune.
Christmas Kisses - Serena Ryder
is a charming and romantic holiday song that celebrates the magic of love during the festive season. With Ryder's soulful voice and a retro-inspired melody, the track exudes warmth and joy, capturing the sweet moments of holiday romance. Its playful lyrics and upbeat rhythm make it a perfect tune for setting a festive, feel-good mood, blending nostalgia with contemporary charm. "Christmas Kisses" is a delightful reminder of the love and connection that make the holidays so special.
Angels We Have Heard on High - Bruce Guthro
A soulful and stirring rendition of the classic Christmas carol. With Guthro's rich, emotive voice and the accompaniment of folk and acoustic instrumentation, this version brings a fresh and heartfelt energy to the beloved hymn. The song’s joyful chorus and uplifting melody capture the spirit of Christmas, celebrating the angelic announcement of Christ's birth. Guthro's interpretation of this timeless carol blends tradition with a contemporary folk sound, making it a beautiful and memorable addition to the holiday season.
Just Before Christmas - David Francey (Written With Terra Spencer)
Tells the tragic story of a fishing boat crew who drowned in the cold Bay of Fundy, just before Christmas. The men had been out fishing and were returning home when a sudden and unexpected storm capsized their boat, claiming their lives. Despite being in sight of shore, the crew couldn’t make it back. The song reflects on the heartbreak and loss felt by their families, especially as the Christmas season approaches.
The repeated line "Eternal Father so strong to save" conveys a prayer for their souls, adding a sense of solemnity to the tragic tale of lives cut short just before the holidays. The song highlights the fragility of life and the sorrow that can accompany the festive season for those who experience loss.
All We Should Make at Christmas - Don Amero
A heartfelt and thoughtful holiday song that emphasizes the importance of love, kindness, and connection during the Christmas season. With its gentle melody and warm lyrics, Amero encourages listeners to focus on the true spirit of the holidays — spending time with loved ones and spreading goodwill. The song's positive message and simple, yet powerful, theme make it a beautiful reminder of what really matters during the festive season.
It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas - Michael Bublé
A heartfelt and soulful rendition of the classic holiday song. With his smooth, rich vocals and emotive delivery, Bublé adds a touch of warmth and longing to the track, capturing the desire for reunion and love that defines the Christmas season.
Xmas (Merry Christmas) - The Trews
An upbeat, rock-infused holiday song that brings a fresh and energetic vibe to the Christmas season. With its catchy chorus and spirited performance, the track captures the joy and excitement of the holidays while maintaining the band's signature sound and style.
Auld Lang Syne - The Tenors
A beautifully emotive rendition of the classic Scottish song, infused with their signature harmonies and powerful vocals. The track brings a modern yet respectful interpretation to this timeless New Year’s anthem, blending tradition with a fresh, heartfelt energy.
The Christmas Medley - Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy
A dazzling instrumental showcase that blends traditional Christmas melodies with the duo's virtuosic fiddle playing. Known for their mastery of Celtic and Cape Breton styles, MacMaster and Leahy infuse the medley with lively rhythms, intricate harmonies, and a joyous energy that captures the festive spirit. The medley seamlessly weaves together beloved holiday tunes, creating a dynamic and uplifting celebration of the season. It's a perfect addition to Christmas gatherings, highlighting the warmth and cheer of the holidays through the brilliance of their musicianship.
One in a Million - Tenille Townes
A poignant and emotional song that highlights the rarity and beauty of finding a truly special connection. With her heartfelt vocals and rich storytelling, Townes delivers a powerful ballad about love, appreciation, and the feeling of being deeply valued.
Maybe This Christmas - Ron Sexsmith
A tender and introspective holiday song that captures the quiet, hopeful side of the Christmas season. With its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, Sexsmith reflects on the possibility of finding love, connection, and peace during the festive season, even amidst life's uncertainties. The song’s soothing tone and reflective message make it a poignant addition to Christmas playlists, offering a sense of hope and longing that resonates deeply with listeners who seek a more thoughtful, emotional take on the holiday season.
Jolly Melancholy Christmas - Andrea England
A beautifully poignant and reflective Christmas song by Andrea England, capturing the bittersweet emotions of the holiday season with her soulful voice and touching lyrics. It’s a perfect addition for those who enjoy a more introspective holiday mood.
Seven Joys of Mary - Great Big Sea
A spirited and vibrant rendition of the traditional folk carol that celebrates the joys experienced by Mary, the mother of Jesus. Infused with the band's signature Celtic energy and rich harmonies, the song recounts the significant events in Mary's life with a lively and rhythmic arrangement. Great Big Sea brings a fresh, maritime-inspired twist to this classic, making it both reverent and festive. It’s a joyful and energetic addition to any Christmas collection, perfect for celebrating the season with traditional roots and a modern flair.
Blues for Christmas - Russell deCarle
A soulful and introspective holiday track that blends the warmth of Christmas with the rich tones of blues music. With his smooth, emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics, deCarle brings a unique depth to the holiday season, reflecting on the bittersweet emotions that can accompany the festive time of year. The song's gentle yet poignant melody and bluesy rhythm offer a fresh and reflective take on Christmas, perfect for those seeking a more contemplative mood during the holidays.
I Love Santa - Kim Stockwood
A playful and upbeat holiday song that captures the pure excitement and joy of Christmas. With her lively vocals and catchy melody, Stockwood celebrates the magic of the season, expressing a childlike enthusiasm for Santa Claus and all the festive traditions that come with it. The song is filled with cheerful energy, making it a fun and lighthearted addition to any holiday playlist, sure to bring a smile to listeners of all ages.
I Want A Massey Ferguson For Christmas - Brett Kissel
A fun, country-infused holiday tune that blends festive cheer with a humorous twist. The song tells the story of a young person’s wish for a Massey Ferguson tractor, capturing the spirit of rural life and adding a playful, down-to-earth charm to the Christmas season.
This Christmas - Kelly Prescott
A joyful and energetic holiday track that captures the spirit of celebration and togetherness. With her rich vocals and a lively arrangement, Prescott brings a fresh and heartfelt rendition of the classic Christmas song, infusing it with warmth and festive cheer. The song's upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it an instant holiday favorite, perfect for spreading joy and creating a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere during the season.
Make It Christmas Day - Jann Arden
A heartwarming and festive song that captures the magic and joy of the holiday season. With Arden's distinctive voice and uplifting melody, the song emphasizes the importance of togetherness, love, and making the most of Christmas moments. The lyrics convey a longing for the simple, meaningful things that Christmas brings, such as family, warmth, and kindness, creating an atmosphere of celebration and gratitude. It's a feel-good anthem that reminds listeners of the beauty of the holiday season and the joy of making every moment count.
The Heart of Christmas Time - Dave Gunning
A heartfelt and reflective holiday song that captures the true essence of Christmas. With its warm, folk-inspired melodies and poignant lyrics, the song emphasizes the importance of family, love, and togetherness during the holiday season.
I'll Be There Christmas Eve - Ron Hynes
A deeply emotional and heartfelt Christmas song that touches on themes of love, longing, and dedication during the holiday season. With Hynes' soulful vocals and poignant lyrics, the song speaks to the promise of being with loved ones, even in times of separation or distance. The song's gentle melody and intimate storytelling create a sense of warmth and connection, reflecting the desire to be together with those we care about most, especially during the meaningful moments of Christmas Eve. It’s a touching reminder of the enduring bonds that carry us through the festive season, even when we’re apart.
Feliz Navidad - Sultans of String featuring Alex Cuba,
A lively and joyous rendition of the classic holiday song, infused with vibrant Latin rhythms and rich guitar melodies. The track brings a fresh, multicultural twist to the Christmas spirit, blending festive cheer with a fusion of jazz, Latin, and world music influences. Its upbeat energy and celebratory tone make it a perfect addition to the holiday season, reflecting the joy and togetherness that define festive gatherings across cultures.
Angels Without Wings / Merry Christmas Baby - The Mahones
A lively and unique blend of Celtic punk and holiday spirit. The first part, "Angels Without Wings," is a heartfelt and emotional reflection on the loss of loved ones, with a touch of the band's signature folk-punk style. It balances the solemnity of its theme with the warmth of the Christmas season, reminding listeners of the importance of cherishing those we hold dear. The second part, "Merry Christmas Baby," brings a much-needed shift in tone, delivering a fun and energetic take on the classic Christmas song with a rock-infused twist. Together, these songs create a dynamic and powerful celebration of both love and joy during the holiday season.
Santa, Please Don't Go - By Kat Goldman and Joel Claene
A tender and heartfelt holiday ballad that explores themes of love, longing, and the bittersweet moments of the season. The song’s gentle melody and evocative lyrics capture the emotional depth of Christmas, portraying a plea for togetherness and the hope that cherished moments will last longer. With its mix of sentimentality and beauty, this song resonates with listeners who value the heartfelt connections that define the holiday season. It's a touching reminder of the importance of love and presence during this special time of year.
See You for Christmas - Charlie A'Court
Co-written by Charlie A'Court and Chris Kirby, is a soulful and heartfelt holiday song that beautifully captures the emotions of longing and anticipation. The track blends warm, intimate melodies with touching lyrics about reuniting with loved ones during the Christmas season, evoking a sense of hope and connection.
Christmas Makes Me Miss You More - Lynn Miles
A heartfelt and poignant holiday song that touches on the bittersweet emotions that can arise during the festive season. With its tender lyrics and Miles' soulful, emotive vocals, the track reflects on the longing and nostalgia often felt when separated from loved ones at Christmas. Its gentle melody and reflective tone make it a beautiful, introspective addition to the holiday music collection, resonating deeply with those who experience the bittersweet side of the season.
Christmas With You - Mike Biggar
A warm, heartfelt song that celebrates the joy of spending the holiday season with a special someone. With its soulful vocals and intimate lyrics, the song beautifully captures the magic of love and togetherness during Christmas.
Be My Santa Claus - Shakura S'Aida
A playful and soulful Christmas song that blends festive cheer with a touch of romance. With her powerful, blues-infused vocals, S'Aida adds a fun twist to the holiday season, expressing a desire for love and joy alongside the traditional holiday spirit.
Hobo Christmas Train - Matt Andersen
A soulful, folk-inspired holiday song that tells the story of a lonely traveler longing for home during the Christmas season. With his rich, gravelly voice and emotive delivery, Andersen captures the bittersweet feeling of missing loved ones while evoking the spirit of hope and redemption that defines the holiday season.
Ballad of the Twinkle Lights - Red Moon Road
A charming, folk-infused Christmas song that reflects on the warmth and magic of the holiday season. With its melodic storytelling and rich harmonies, the song captures the joy of decorating for Christmas while evoking nostalgia and a sense of togetherness.
Hey There Snowflake! - The Ennis Sisters
A delightful and whimsical holiday song that captures the magic of a snowy Christmas season. With their harmonious vocals and joyful melody, the Ennis Sisters paint a picture of winter’s charm, evoking images of snowfall and the cozy warmth of the holiday season. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat rhythm make it a fun and festive addition to any Christmas playlist, perfect for celebrating the season with a sense of wonder and cheer. It's a joyful reminder of the beauty and simplicity of winter, perfect for families and listeners of all ages.
Children Go - Fred Penner
A joyful and uplifting holiday song that celebrates the innocence and wonder of children during the Christmas season. With its catchy melody and Penner's warm, inviting voice, the song encourages children to embrace the spirit of giving, love, and togetherness. The lyrics highlight the joy and excitement of the holiday season, making it a perfect song for families and young listeners. Its positive energy and message of goodwill make "Children Go" a heartwarming addition to any Christmas playlist, reminding everyone of the pure joy that comes with the holiday season.
Christmas on the Town - Rose Cousins
From the album featuring Jill Barber, and Meaghan Smith
A delightful holiday track that captures the warmth and charm of festive traditions. With their harmonious vocals and a blend of folk and pop influences, the trio brings a joyful and intimate atmosphere to the song, evoking images of cozy winter evenings and the spirit of togetherness. The song reflects the essence of celebrating the holidays in a close-knit community, making it a perfect addition to the soundtrack of the season.
Santa Baby - Suzie Vinnick
A sultry and smooth rendition of the classic holiday tune, adding a fresh twist with Vinnick's soulful vocals and jazzy instrumentation. Her playful yet sophisticated interpretation brings a new depth to the song, blending holiday charm with a touch of bluesy elegance. This version of "Santa Baby" is perfect for those looking to add a bit of fun and flair to their holiday music collection, offering a seductive and stylish take on the beloved Christmas classic.
Sing For Kwanzaa - Sultans of String featuring Richard Bona and Waleed Abdulhamid
An uplifting, rhythmic celebration of African heritage and the principles of Kwanzaa. The song blends world music influences, with vibrant percussion, bass, and vocals, creating a festive atmosphere that echoes the unity, creativity, and cultural pride central to the Kwanzaa holiday season. It embodies the spirit of togetherness and joy that defines the celebration, inviting listeners to reflect on the values of community and heritage during this special time of year.
At the end of this article, we'll leave you with a special track from Sultans of String's acclaimed album Christmas Caravan. The Sound Cafe could not leave out this masterful rendition of "Hallelujah" featuring Rebecca Campbell. A stirring and soulful take on Leonard Cohen's iconic song, the band's lush instrumentation and Campbell's powerful vocals elevate this version to a breathtaking holiday experience, offering a perfect blend of reverence and festive spirit.
It's a fitting finale to the vibrant musical journey through Kwanzaa, Christmas, and Indigenous traditions, leaving us with a sense of awe and celebration.
Stay tuned to The Sound Cafe Magazine for more insights into the music that makes the holiday season unforgettable!
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