Merry Christmas to you! This has been one of the most demanding year socially, politically and economically. Amidst all the bustles of the 2023 National elections, rising fuel prices and inflation, uncovering fake products and other unsettling social dilemmas, our music has witnessed a continued upsurge, ringing out loud within all corners of the global horizons. Whether it is Rema’s 2023 take-off with the monster “Calm Down”, Asake’s sophomore album, Davido’s “Unavailable” shutdown, Victony’s smash hit, “Soweto”, Burna Boy record-breaking “I Told Them” or Adekunle Gold constant reminder that “Party No Dey Stop”, we are being reminded again that music really is us.
We have thus decided to indulge you with a curated collection of timeless Christmas tunes from Nigeria that engender the warm and cherished sentiments embodying the festive spirit to put us in the Yuletide groove once again. This selection includes hits from Korede Bello, Jaywon, Timi Dakolo and Tunde Ednut.
1. Jingle Bell – Korede Bello
Former Mavin Record star, Korede Bello ushers us into a groovy tune, showing off a Fuji style-interpolation of Frank Sinatra’s “Jingle Bells” and the popular children song, “Holiday is coming”, bringing back childhood nostalgias of holiday feelings.
2. Jingle Bell – Tunde Ednut featuring Davido, Tiwa Savage and Seun Kuti.
2020 collaboration between Tunde Ednut, a well-liked social media star and talented artist and renowned Afrobeats artistes, Davido, Tiwa Savage, and Seun Kuti creates an electrifying anthem to commemorate the festive season. Tiwa Savage and Davido captivate fans with their incredible vocal abilities, while Seun Kuti complements their melodies with striking saxophone solos, resulting in a harmonious blend that ignites the joyful essence of Christmas.
3. Odun Keresimesi – Ebenezer Obey
Ebenezer Obey, the renowned and iconic Juju musician, introduced the track Odun Keresimesi (a celebration of Christmas) as part of his album 51, Lex Presents: Oya Ka Jo Jo in the year 2006. Since then, this particular song has firmly established its position as one of the timeless Nigerian Christmas melodies. This composition not only emphasizes the significance of the Yuletide festivities but also emphasizes the power of heartfelt prayers to experience many more joyful celebrations. Interestingly, this song remains a constant favorite, primarily resonating with the mature audience.
4. Merry Christmas, Darling – Timi Dakolo featuring Emile Sande
Timi Dakolo joins forces with Scottish vocalist, Emile Sande to deliver a beautiful Christmas tune, reminding us of the great importance of the season — spreading love and happiness. Watch/view the video on youtube.
5. All I want for Christmas is you – Ric Hassani
From the stable of Nigerian soul singer, Ric Hassani is another Christmas-themed song off his surprise “Love & Christmas” EP. Sampling Mariah Carey’s groundbreaking “All I Want for Christmas is you”, Ric Hassani provides a more melodic vocal experience, projecting love as the ultimate gift of the festive period. Watch/view the video on youtube.
