Music Curated #25 - December 25th, 2023
It's just another music Monday (almost)
I mix it up here and share various music with my readers, so you’ll see something different each week. You may be into some of what I share, and you may not be into other things, and that’s okay. My goal is to share the things I enjoy and I hope to introduce my audience to something they might not have otherwise heard, and I hope some of it also resonates with you.
This week, I’m sending the newsletter out a little early since tomorrow is Christmas. In keeping with the holiday, I thought I would share some holiday-themed music, but true to the Music Curated spirit of finding unique and out-of-the-ordinary versions of the usual holiday tunes.
Song: Khruangbin - Christmas Time is Here
Here’s the start of the theme you’ll see here about Christmas songs presented in untraditional ways. I don’t have a problem with Christmas songs per se, but I like them a little more interesting and presented in a unique way that aligns with my general taste in music. This makes me excited about these songs.
As a huge Khruangin fan, this rendition of a Christmas classic is a perfect example.
Playlist: Indie Christmas
Here’s an entire playlist of Christmas songs presented in a way that I get a lot more enjoyment out of, or just out-of-the-box songs that have a Christmas feel.
Album: A Very Special Christmas
Released in 1987, this was the first in a series of Christmas-themed compilation albums produced to benefit the Special Olympics. With many iconic artists of the ’80s, like Whitney Houston, Madonna, U2, and Run-D.M.C., this is a unique mix of Christmas song renditions. The iconic cover art was designed by Keith Haring in his signature style.
Video: The Official 2023 Sufjan Yule Log
Set the holiday mood with Sufjan Stevens' festive magic! Immerse yourself in over 100 heartwarming holiday songs from his collections Songs for Christmas (2006) and Silver & Gold (2012). Accompanied by a cozy yule log backdrop, this five-hour video is the perfect soundtrack for your cherished holiday moments.
Let the festive vibes begin!
Read: They’re Great Songs. Are They Christmas Songs?
Step into the holiday musical debate with our latest newsletter exploration! What truly makes a Christmas song? Sleigh bells, yuletide imagery, or that unmistakable sense of good cheer? We're challenging the norms with a curated playlist of what we've deemed "Questionable Christmas Songs." From Merle Haggard's poignant "If We Make It Through December" to Taylor Swift's hometown reverie in "’Tis the Damn Season," these tunes teeter on the edge of holiday vibes, sparking spirited discussions around festive dinner tables. Embrace the festive ambiguity and enjoy the musical ride as we navigate the grey area of what makes a Christmas classic. Listen along on Spotify and share your thoughts on these unconventional picks!