Shana Blake - It's a Ho-Ho-Ho Christmas
Holiday, Jazz
North Carolina, U.S.
Overall Impression: There are certain songs that carry the warmth and joy of the holiday season with an innate, effervescent energy—and "It's a Ho-Ho-Ho Christmas" is certainly one of them. This Christmas jazz tune stands as a brilliant celebration not only of the festive season but also of family, history, and love. Infused with the tender spirit of five generations, from Dot’s original poem to the skillful contributions of each family member—great-grandmother Bunte, grandmother Dot, uncle David, cousin Mason, and the artist themselves—the track feels like a shared gift, a song of remembrance and joy passed down through the years and is sure to warm the heart of many a listener.
Strongest Point(s): From the very first notes, the music invites us into a world that's both cozy and vibrant. The vocals are drenched in charm, with a playful swing that feels as if it’s spilling over with laughter and holiday cheer. There’s a warmth to the voice, as if each word is wrapped in a hug, lovingly delivered with every note. The rhythm is infectious, urging you to tap your feet and sway along as the lyrics paint a picture of a classic Christmas evening—twinkling lights, mistletoe, jingling bells, and the promise of Santa’s visit. The lyrics themselves are simple, yet they resonate with a sense of innocence and nostalgia, perfectly capturing the joy and togetherness that define the holiday spirit. The rhythm guitar provides a rhythmic backbone, keeping the momentum bouncy and inviting. There’s a swing to the strums, their bounciness matching the joyous tone of the song. Meanwhile, the bass and percussive elements work in tandem to inject a steady groove, giving the tune a swing that makes it impossible not to move along with it. Each instrument, though distinct, blends in perfect harmony—much like the five generations that shaped the song’s very essence. The lyrics, written by Dot, are full of those little holiday details that make Christmas feel so special. The mention of popcorn balls, the allure of eggnog, and the romantic invitation to share a kiss under the mistletoe all evoke the joy of simple, cherished traditions. The repeated refrain of “Oh, oh, oh, it’s a Ho-Ho-Ho Christmas” feels like an exclamation of pure happiness, an invitation to live in the moment and savor the festivities. There’s no rush in this song—only a shared, collective enjoyment of the season. What truly elevates “It’s a Ho-Ho-Ho Christmas” beyond being just another festive tune is the love embedded in every note. The collaboration of five generations isn't just a clever anecdote—it's palpable in the music itself. There’s a deep affection for each other, for their shared history, and for the holiday season that resonates in every measure. The song becomes a celebration of more than just Christmas; it becomes a celebration of family, of connection, of the ties that bind us together even as time passes. In the end, “It’s a Ho-Ho-Ho Christmas” is more than a holiday tune—it’s a legacy, a love letter to family and tradition. From its exuberant rhythm to its heartfelt lyrics, it captures the very essence of what makes Christmas so special: the feeling of being surrounded by loved ones, the laughter, the music, and the simple, enduring magic of the season.
Target Audience Appeal: Lovers of traditional holiday jazz will find this to be a thoroughly worthwhile listening experience.
Artist target suggestions: Laufey, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Norah Jones, Samara Joy, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, Nancy Wilson, Julie London, Louis Armstrong
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session guitarist, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.