‘Tis the season for holiday cheer and catchy tunes, and while fans may think of traditional carols and pop ballads, hip-hop has also left its mark on Christmas music. From Tyler, The Creator’s Grinch-inspired tracks to Kanye West’s iconic “Christmas In Harlem,” get ready to be surprised as SOHH reveals the top six hip-hop artists who have crafted festive songs and albums for the holidays.
Tyler, The Grinch
In 2018, Tyler, The Creator introduced his talents to a wider audience with a role in The Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch soundtrack.
Not only did he create the catchy original song, “I Am The Grinch,” but he also delivered a hip-hop cover of the holiday classic, “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” Just a few days later, Tyler released an EP titled Music Inspired by Illumination & Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, further showcasing his festive creativity.
In the realm of Tyler, The Creator’s world, the rapper continues to elevate and consistently showcase his versatility. He recently embarked on his annual festival, Camp Flog Gnaw which reached immense success, with heavy headliners such as Kendrick Lamar and Baby Keem, as they acted as a duo named, “The Hillbillies.”
‘The Ying and The Yang of The Holidays’
Known for their energetic club anthems, the Ying Yang Twins surprised fans in 2008 with a holiday EP titled, The Ying and The Yang of The Holidays. The standout track, “Deck Da Club,” is their unique take on the Christmas classic, “Deck The Halls.”
Ceelo Green’s Magical Moment
In 2012, CeeLo Green delved into the holiday spirit with his album CeeLo’s Magic Moment. Serving as his fourth studio album and first holiday release, it featured his renditions of beloved Christmas songs like “Mary Did You Know” and “What Christmas Means To Me.”
Chance The Rapper In The Holiday Spirit
On Christmas Eve 2016, Chance The Rapper surprised fans with a self-released mixtape on SoundCloud titled “Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama.”
Collaborating with singer Jeremih, the mixtape showcased their playful and festive side. The project gained so much popularity that it was reissued the following year as a double-disc mixtape with additional tracks and a piano remix.
Kanye Kristmas Karols
Adding to his diverse discography, Kanye West created a Christmas hit with his 2010 single, “Christmas In Harlem.” Featuring rapper Cyhi the Prynce and R&B singer Teyana Taylor, the track captured the holiday spirit while showcasing Kanye’s unique musical style.
Then, Ye has also been in the talks this year as fans are awaiting his highly-anticipated album release titled, Vultures. The album has created many conversations as he has collaborated with Ty Dolla $ign and his daughter, North West.
Khia’s ‘Santa Baby’
Known for her bold and explicit hit “My Neck, My Back,” Khia surprised fans with her own holiday offering in 2018. Releasing her version of “Santa Baby,” the rapper paid homage to the jolly old man himself with her signature flair.
Songs That Were Covers
Just when fans thought they knew everything about their favorite artists, they were surprised with unexpected songs and covers. From Beyoncé to Aaliyah, many musicians have put their spin on well-known tracks.
The post Hip-Hop Holiday Cheer: Artists With Holiday Songs & Albums That May Have Went Under The Radar appeared first on SOHH.com.
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