By Julia Esposito and Rachel Priest
Whether it be listening to Michael Bublé’s Christmas album on the way to school or singing “All I want for Christmas Is You” with friends, there are often new songs to get in the holiday spirit.
As the season approaches, many artists begin releasing covers or writing their original Christmas songs. Lizzo created a cover of the classic “Someday At Christmas” and Alicia Keys decided to use her soulful voice to make a cover of “Santa Baby.” Other artists, such as Phoebe Bridgers, made a holiday-inspired album accumulated of songs written by her and covers that could be considered staples.
“‘Empire State of Mind’ is one of my favorite songs, so I was beyond excited when Alicia Keys released her version of ‘Santa Baby.’ I really enjoyed the soulful flair and how she implemented a unique take on the classic,” senior Gabriella Bonetti said.
The artist that got many talking, however, was Camilla Cabello singing “I’ll be Home for Christmas.” Listeners quickly went to the internet, bashing her for pronouncing “Christmas” in an unusual manner. She mentioned in an interview with Access Hollywood that she says the word normally while speaking, but as she is singing with feeling and passion, the pronunciation comes out differently. Many listeners do not like when artists sing in “cursive,” which Cabello does frequently. The media did not let up with this style of singing for Cabello, as there are a multitude of posts making fun of the singer.
“I’m not sure if Camilla Cabello was trying to say it [Christmas] wrong or not, but it’s not a bad song. I did appreciate how she made fun of herself about it on TikTok,” junior Rosie Zehnter said.
In addition to the holiday haters bashing Cabello, Mariah Carey didn't escape judgment on social media. During the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, many were quick to scrutinize Carey's use of a teleprompter to read the lyrics of her most famous song, "All I Want for Christmas is You."
Artwork by Ann Aphraim
Mariah Carey performed her famous song, "All I Want for Christmas is You" at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Despite all the new holiday music artists released this year, the older pop Christmas tunes are still favored by many.
“I prefer Justin Bieber’s Christmas album! When I think of Justin Bieber’s Christmas music era, I just feel very nostalgic because it brings me back to when I was younger and how magical Christmas is,” senior Natalie Bak said.
As the long-awaited holidays approach at last, many students wear their headphones and AirPods along with their Santa hats and Christmas pajamas. Regardless of whether one is a hardcore classic Christmas listener or is into the new pop holiday hits, holiday songs often bring a feeling of warmth and winter nostalgia.
Comments