Ten Tunes to Get You In the Holiday Spirit

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I’ve been dying to share this list with you, but that also involved me stopping for a few minutes to tell you about each song. I occasionally get in my own way, and sometimes music is the only thing that keeps me moving.

Let these ten sublime tracks power you through the holiday season. They are alternately fun and brooding, joyous and thoughtful. This is honestly my favorite top ten to date. I hope you enjoy it. Be sure to subscribe to the play list on Spotify!

Happy Holidays!

Jess Glynne – You Gave Me Something

Every once in a while there’s a vocalist that emanates undeniable joy, and along came Jess Glynne. Her breakout anthem “Rather Be” (with Clean Bandit) propelled her to stardom, and her solo efforts continue spreading church-like joy, perfect for the holidays – or to pick you up from a hard day. Watch the video if you want to turn into a puddle.

White Sea – Future Husbands, Past Lives

White Sea is the newest project from Alaska’s Morgan Kibby, who has spent a ton of her career touring with and writing for the much celebrated band M83. I was initially struck by how the progressions and the pretty vocal, then realized the lyrics are about stalking. I love the juxtaposition.

Lizzo & Caroline Smith – Let ‘ Em, Say

Both from Minneapolis, alternative hip-hop hero Lizzo teams up with the folkier Caroline Smith on a tune made to show respect to working women. The result is an empowered anti-hater anthem that will resonate with the masses. Check it out.

Tiger La – Deadly Rhythm (Bobby Green Remix)

New York based Bobby Green provides a floaty, fabulous remix of London’s Tiger LA. From 2013, but I had to bring it back out of the vault – this is a remix that deserves a resurgence.

A-Trak – We All Fall Down feat. Jamie Lidell

Aside from being adorable, A-Trak has been turning out some good standard-fare house music as of late. This one breaks the clutter with the soulful voice of Jamie Lidell, who always seems to grab my attention. Listen and learn.

Tensnake – Love Sublime

With house music leader Tensnake featuring the timeless talents of Nile Rodgers (Chic, Madonna, Diana Ross), this is soulful and sexy and pretty much perfect.

Nabiha – Animals

Nabiha Bensouda is a Danish singer-songwriter who has gained attention after releasing three albums, including a re-issue, and enjoying a number of successful singles on Tracklisten, the official Danish Singles chart as well as on the official airplay chart.

Jessie Ware – Champagne Kisses

I am unable to get enough of Jessie Ware and how she manages to juxtapose angelic with sensuality. Here’s to some champagne kisses to keep you warm this winter.

Eric Kupper & Kenny Summit present Proper – Over Here

This power duo bring yet another slab of tightly-produced house music, with a dash of acid. Jersey vibes on this one!

Foxes – Youth

Aside from fixing the things that break daily in my home and paying some bills, I’m not growing up. No matter how close to (redacted) I am.