Christmas and rap music might seem like an unlikely pairing, but the truth is, these two worlds have been joyfully colliding since the early days of hip-hop. From the streets to the sleigh, Christmas Rap Songs have evolved into a vibrant subgenre, offering a unique and often humorous take on the holiday season. Since Kurtis Blow dropped “Christmas Rappin'” in 1979, the world has been blessed with a sleigh-full of festive hip-hop tracks. Whether you’re looking for classic old-school jams, gangsta rap holiday anthems, or modern trap carols, there’s a Christmas rap song to soundtrack your holiday cheer. Get ready to crank up the holiday spirit with our curated list of the best Christmas rap songs of all time, spanning from the genre’s origins to today’s hottest hits. Prepare to deck the halls with hip-hop beats and discover the perfect soundtrack for your Christmas celebrations.
Kurtis Blow, “Christmas Rappin'” (1979)
Album: Kurtis Blow, Christmas Rappin’ 12″ (1979)
The track that started it all! “Christmas Rappin'” by Kurtis Blow isn’t just a Christmas song; it’s a cornerstone of hip-hop history. Born from a somewhat cynical yet ultimately genius idea by Billboard writers seeking holiday songwriting royalties, this track reimagines “A Visit From St. Nicholas” with a fresh, rhythmic twist. Kurtis Blow, a charismatic MC, delivered Clement Clarke Moore’s classic poem with his signature party rhymes, creating an instant holiday hit that resonated from winter through spring. Over four decades later, the song’s magic remains undeniable. Hearing Kurtis interrupt the traditional poem with “Hold it, wait, hold it. That’s played out” is still a surefire way to ignite any Christmas gathering and get the party started with some true old-school holiday hip hop vibes.
Kurtis Blow’s iconic “Christmas Rappin'” album cover, a classic example of early Christmas rap songs.
The Cold Crush Brothers, “Rappin’ Christmas” (1982)
Album: The Cold Crush Brothers, “Rappin’ Christmas”/“Rappin’ New Year” Single (1982)
The Cold Crush Brothers, a legendary crew from hip-hop’s golden era, delivered a unique and socially conscious Christmas message with “Rappin’ Christmas.” Released during the recession of 1982, this track paints a stark picture of Santa Claus struggling under Reaganomics. In this narrative, Santa faces economic hardship, losing his reindeer, toys, and even Mrs. Claus. His attempt to visit the city turns disastrous with a sleigh breakdown and a mugging. The only ones thriving in this bleak Christmas scenario are the rats, feasting on stolen candy canes. “Rappin’ Christmas” offers a raw and realistic portrayal of the early Reagan era, making it a distinctive and thought-provoking addition to the canon of Christmas rap music. It’s a reminder that even holiday hip hop can carry a powerful message.
The single cover for “Rappin’ Christmas” by The Cold Crush Brothers, showcasing a recession-era Christmas rap theme.
The Treacherous Three, “Santa Rap” (1984)
Album: Various Artists, Beat Street (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) – Vol. 2 (1984)
Featured in the iconic 1984 hip-hop film Beat Street, “Santa Rap” by The Treacherous Three is a fascinating artifact of old-school rap. While musically dated with its patterned claps and keyboard riffs characteristic of early NYC hip-hop, its lyrical context remains surprisingly relevant. Presented as a nightclub skit in the movie, “Santa Rap” functions effectively as a full-fledged pre-Golden Age rap song. It unfolds as a conversation between Santa Claus and two underprivileged individuals challenging his perceived classism. The lyrics, including the memorable line “Jingle, Jangle, Jingle for the poor/And once you get your welfare check/Y’all can kiss my mistletoe,” transform it into both a catchy Christmas tune and a compelling commentary on socioeconomics. This track demonstrates the early power of rap to blend holiday themes with social commentary, solidifying its place in Christmas hip hop history.
The cover of the Beat Street Vol. 2 soundtrack featuring “Santa Rap” by The Treacherous Three, a classic Christmas rap song from the 80s.
Sweet Tee, “Let The Jingle Bells Rock” (1987)
Album: Various Artists, Christmas Rap (1987)
Sweet Tee, true to her moniker, delivered one of the most charming and playfully contradictory Christmas rap songs with “Let The Jingle Bells Rock.” Despite her assertive delivery and a beat reminiscent of the era’s energetic rap sound, Sweet Tee raps about the softer side of the holiday season: snuggling, candy canes, and embracing Christmas joy. Musically rooted in the sounds of Sugarhill Gang and Marley Marl, the track is elevated by Sweet Tee’s willingness to rap about traditionally gentle Christmas themes like mistletoe kisses. “Let The Jingle Bells Rock” is a delightful example of feel-good, family-friendly Christmas fun within the hip-hop genre, making it a unique and sweet addition to any holiday rap playlist.
The “Christmas Rap” compilation album featuring Sweet Tee’s “Let The Jingle Bells Rock”, a sweet and upbeat Christmas rap track.
Run-DMC, “Christmas In Hollis” (1987)
Album: Various Artists, A Very Special Christmas (1987)
“Christmas In Hollis” by Run-DMC isn’t just a Christmas rap song; it’s arguably the quintessential holiday hip-hop anthem. The genesis of this classic track is as charming as the song itself. Bill Adler, Def Jam’s PR head and a known Christmas music enthusiast, inspired Run-DMC to write about their home neighborhood, Hollis, Queens, while also bringing a copy of the Soul Christmas compilation to their studio session. From this blend of local pride and soulful holiday inspiration, hip-hop’s greatest Christmas song emerged. If the opening lines, “It’s Christmas time in Hollis, Queens…” don’t instantly evoke images of DMC’s mom’s festive menu and holiday cheer, then you might need a serious dose of Christmas spirit. Adding to its cultural significance, the music video was directed by Graffiti Rock creator Michael Holman, with makeup by Entourage‘s Debi Mazar, further cementing its place in pop culture history. This track is a must-have for any Christmas hip hop celebration.
The iconic “A Very Special Christmas” album cover featuring Run-DMC’s legendary Christmas rap song, “Christmas in Hollis”.
Eazy-E f/ Menajahtwa, Buckwheat from the Lil Waskals, Will 1X, & Atban Klann, “Merry Muthaf****n’ Xmas” (1992)
Album: Eazy-E, 5150: Home 4 tha Sick (1992)
Eazy-E, the “Godfather of Gangsta Rap,” lived up to his title by infusing the purity of Christmas with his signature raw and explicit style in “Merry Muthafuckin’ X-Mas.” This track is less about traditional Christmas sentiment and more about adult holiday celebrations with a naughty twist. While it might not be your typical carol, the mere mention of Santa qualifies it as a unique entry in the Christmas music canon. Eazy-E and his collaborators showcase their hip-hop ingenuity through an unadulterated West Coast rap beat, raunchy verses, and cleverly incorporated Yuletide sound effects. Explicit and irreverent, it’s the antithesis of what you’d expect from a Christmas song, yet it possesses a certain audacious charm. Surprisingly, its edgy take on the holiday spirit arguably feels less suggestive than some versions of “Santa Baby,” proving Eazy-E’s ability to push boundaries even within Christmas hip hop.
Eazy-E’s “5150: Home 4 tha Sick” album cover, featuring the controversial and explicit Christmas rap track, “Merry Muthafuckin’ Xmas.”
C-Murder & Master P, “Christmas In Da Ghetto” (1994)
Album: Master P Presents West Coast Bad Boyz, High Fo Xmas (1994)
“Christmas in the ghetto just ain’t worth shit/Tell Santa Claus he better watch his back.” This opening line of Master P and C-Murder’s “Christmas In Da Ghetto” powerfully encapsulates the feelings of disenfranchisement during the holiday season. The song confronts the stark realities of Christmas for those facing economic hardship. While incorporating elements of the classic Christmas carol “Deck the Halls,” the production leans heavily into a West Coast hip-hop vibe reminiscent of 2Pac. New Orleans brothers Master P and C-Murder, then based in Northern California, rap about the painful disparity of Christmas for those unable to afford gifts matching their love and holiday spirit. “Christmas In Da Ghetto” is a poignant and unflinching look at the holiday season from a different perspective, adding depth and social commentary to the realm of Christmas rap songs.
The “Master P Presents West Coast Bad Boyz, High Fo Xmas” album cover, featuring the song “Christmas In Da Ghetto” by C-Murder & Master P.
Snoop Dogg f/ Daz, Nate Dogg, Tray Deee, & Bad Azz, “Santa Claus Goes Straight To The Ghetto” (1996)
Album: Various Artists, Christmas on Death Row (1996)
For many who grew up facing economic hardship, Snoop Dogg’s “Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto” from the Christmas on Death Row album felt like a deeply personal Christmas anthem. Released in 1996, this track resonated with a generation who longed for holiday representation that reflected their realities. Snoop, driving a ‘Lac in the sky with a black Santa hat, Nate Dogg’s soulful chorus, and verses from the Dogg Pound family detailing their troubled past Christmases, created a powerful sense of recognition and belonging. The music video further solidified this connection, depicting a “Black Santa” delivering hope and joy to the ‘hood. Decades later, “Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto” remains a beloved and culturally significant Christmas rap song, embodying the wish for holiday blessings to reach underserved communities. It’s a testament to the power of hip hop to represent diverse Christmas experiences.
The “Christmas on Death Row” album cover, featuring Snoop Dogg’s iconic Christmas rap track “Santa Claus Goes Straight To The Ghetto”.
Jim Jones f/ Stack Bundles & JR Writer, “Ballin’ On X-Mas” (2006)
Album: Jim Jones, A Dipset X-Mas (2006)
Sampling Run-DMC’s iconic “Christmas in Hollis” beat is a bold move in the Christmas rap world, but Jim Jones and the Dipset crew pulled it off with “Ballin’ On X-Mas.” While Stack Bundles’ line “I want to kiss her like I got a mistletoe in my pants” adds a signature Dipset touch of playful swagger, the entire crew delivers solid verses. Stack Bundles and Jim Jones carry the track with their charismatic presence, while Jim Jones provides a raw perspective on the financial pressures of Christmas for those in the streets, rapping “They say Santa know you good or you bad/Gotta make an exception—we in the hood, living fast.” Jim Jones’ interpolation of “Jingle Bells” in the hook adds a slightly unpolished, yet intentionally campy element, perfectly fitting the spirit of A Dipset X-Mas. This track blends classic holiday sounds with Dipset’s unique style, creating a memorable and entertaining Christmas rap song.
Jim Jones’ “A Dipset X-Mas” album cover, featuring the Christmas rap song “Ballin’ On X-Mas” with Stack Bundles & JR Writer.
Ludacris, “Ludacrismas” (2007)
Album: Fred Claus Soundtrack
Ludacris puts his own spin on holiday wish lists with “Ludacrismas,” featured on the Fred Claus soundtrack. Instead of toys and games, Ludacris’ Christmas desires are decidedly more extravagant and humorous. Rapping about wanting a “ten million dollar check,” “leers,” “chicken,” and “beers,” he reimagines the traditional wishlist with his signature playful and boastful style. The track cleverly samples the classic 1947 holiday record of the same name, but transforms it into a modern banger with a menacing, chopped and screwed beat and Ludacris’s aggressive delivery. “Ludacrismas” is a fun and irreverent take on Christmas rap, perfect for those who want their holiday music with a dose of Ludacris’s signature swagger and humor. It’s a great example of how to blend classic holiday themes with contemporary hip hop sounds.
The “Fred Claus Soundtrack” album cover, featuring Ludacris’ humorous and extravagant Christmas rap song, “Ludacrismas.”
Kanye West f/ Teyana Taylor, Cyhi the Prynce, Pusha T, Big Sean, Cam’ron, and More “Christmas In Harlem” (2010)
Album: KanyeWest.com, “G.O.O.D. Fridays” (2010)
“Christmas In Harlem,” the grand finale of Kanye West’s legendary 2010 G.O.O.D. Fridays series, is an opulent and heartwarming Christmas rap extravaganza. This track is a joyous celebration filled with extravagance and genuine holiday spirit. Standout verses come from Pusha-T, who delivers a surprisingly effective metaphor comparing Santa to a cocaine dealer, and Cam’ron, who adds a multi-denominational touch by shouting out his Jewish lawyers. However, the true star of the track is Teyana Taylor, whose radiant hook shines like Christmas lights reflecting on New York snow. “Christmas In Harlem” is a collaborative masterpiece showcasing the G.O.O.D. Music roster at their finest, blending festive cheer with top-tier lyricism and production, making it a standout example of modern Christmas hip hop. It captures the celebratory essence of the holiday season with a touch of Kanye’s signature grandeur.
A promotional image for Kanye West’s “Christmas In Harlem,” released as part of his G.O.O.D. Fridays series, a star-studded Christmas rap collaboration.
DMX, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (2012)
Album: N/A (2012)
DMX’s impromptu a cappella rendition of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” in 2012 is a testament to his enduring appeal and ability to inject his raw energy into unexpected contexts. Despite being past his commercial peak, DMX managed to recapture the intensity of his 1998-2003 era with this surprising Christmas remix. While a Spotify single with added instrumentals exists, the true magic lies in the purity of DMX’s raw vocal performance, laying down the vocals, beatboxing, and ad-libs himself. His signature gravelly voice seems an unlikely match for a children’s holiday tune, yet DMX effortlessly transforms it into a moment of pure, unfiltered joy. This unexpected Christmas rap moment perfectly embodies the holiday spirit, proving that even the most unlikely combinations can create something truly special.
A still from DMX’s viral impromptu a cappella performance of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, showcasing his unique Christmas rap interpretation.
Sean Price, “How Sean Price Stole Christmas” (2012)
Album: Sean Price, “How Sean Price Stole Christmas” Animated Music Video (2012)
The late Sean Price, known for his gruff exterior, golden heart, and sharp wit, perfectly embodied the role of the Grinch in “How Sean Price Stole Christmas.” This track and its accompanying animated video showcase Sean Price’s comedic side and lyrical prowess within a Christmas theme. Instead of gifting, P-as-Grinch humorously robs kids of sneakers, engages in absurd antics with toothbrushes and candy canes, and burns Christmas trees, all while showcasing b-boy dance moves. The lyrics, like “I don’t give a shit, I ain’t getting shit/I hate spitting this, plus I hate St. Nicholas,” are delivered with Sean Price’s signature punchline-heavy style. This Christmas rap song serves as a lasting and humorous reminder of Sean Price’s unique talent for making listeners smile even with Grinch-like antics, solidifying his place in holiday hip hop with a touch of humor.
A still from the animated music video for Sean Price’s “How Sean Price Stole Christmas”, a humorous Christmas rap take on the Grinch story.
Ying Yang Twins, “Ho Ho Ho (Dirty Christmas)” (2014)
Album: Ying Yang Twins, “Ho Ho Ho (Dirty Christmas)” Single (2014)
In a surprising holiday comeback, the Ying Yang Twins released “Ho Ho Ho (Dirty Christmas)” in 2014, proving they could still deliver a memorable track with a mature twist. While retaining their signature lewd humor (“kissing a bad hoe” under the mistletoe), the song showcases a more reflective side, portraying realistic and touching moments of spending Christmas with their children. Hearing the duo, known for “Salt Shaker,” rap about “Kids running around, playing with all they toys/You better sit your ass down, making all that noise,” is both unexpected and endearing. The song balances their playful side with heartwarming family themes, creating a unique Christmas rap song. Bonus points for the lyric reminding kids to wear coats in the snow, adding a touch of parental care to their festive and slightly raunchy holiday offering.
The single cover for Ying Yang Twins’ “Ho Ho Ho (Dirty Christmas)”, a surprisingly mature and humorous Christmas rap track.
Fetty Wap & Monty, “Merry Xmas” (2015)
Album: Merry Xmas
Fetty Wap, known for his trap-infused love songs and catchy hooks, delivers a modern holiday love song with “Merry Xmas.” This track stands out among contemporary Christmas songs due to Fetty and Monty’s distinctive harmonies, blending seamlessly with the trap-influenced production. Their vocals are soft and melodic yet infectious, complemented by flashy one-liners and pop culture references. “Merry Xmas” is a prime example of modern Christmas hip hop, showcasing how contemporary sounds can be infused with holiday themes to create a fresh and appealing festive track. It’s a perfect addition to any Christmas rap playlist looking for a contemporary and melodic vibe.
The album cover for Fetty Wap & Monty’s “Merry Xmas”, a modern trap-infused Christmas rap song with catchy hooks.
Dej Loaf & Kodak Black, “All I Want For Christmas” (2016)
Album: N/A
“All I Want For Christmas” by Dej Loaf and Kodak Black offers a reflective and heartfelt take on holiday gratitude over an enchanting J-Vaughn produced beat. The song centers around the artists’ appreciation for escaping past hardships and never facing a gift-less Christmas again. Kodak Black delivers surprisingly poignant verses, expressing gratitude for his rapping talent and confessing feelings of solitude even amidst success. His lines, “And all I wanted for Christmas was to be here/Now I’m hoping I could spend it with you this year/God bless me with a talent, gotta make it happen/You see this rap shit is my gift, I gotta unwrap it,” are particularly revealing and sincere. Dej Loaf’s smooth, melodic delivery complements Kodak’s introspection, creating an unexpected yet compelling Christmas rap combination. The song is a testament to overcoming adversity and finding gratitude during the holiday season, adding depth and emotional resonance to the Christmas hip hop genre.
A promotional image for Dej Loaf & Kodak Black’s “All I Want For Christmas”, a reflective and grateful Christmas rap song.
Yo Gotti, Fabolous & DJ Khaled, “3 Kings” (2017)
Album: A Very ROC Christmas
“3 Kings” by Yo Gotti, Fabolous, and DJ Khaled from A Very ROC Christmas album presents a decidedly non-traditional, hustle-centric Christmas perspective. The track flips typical holiday imagery, using Christmas themes to depict the realities of street life. While referencing gifts, Santa Claus, and snow, the lyrics cleverly connect these elements to drug dealing and street hustling. Yo Gotti’s opening lines, “On the first day of Christmas, my plug gave to me/A whole sledge of snow so the whole hood can eat,” immediately set the tone. Fabolous continues this theme, rapping, “If you tryna light up tree I know the block with the piff/Rudolf want a red nose I know the block with the sniff.” DJ Khaled’s cinematic ad-libs enhance the track’s larger-than-life persona. “3 Kings” offers a starkly different portrayal of Christmas, viewed through the lens of street hustling, adding a unique and gritty perspective to the Christmas rap song landscape.
The “A Very ROC Christmas” album cover, featuring the song “3 Kings” by Yo Gotti, Fabolous & DJ Khaled, a hustle-themed Christmas rap track.
Jeremih & Chance the Rapper, “Stranger at the Table” (2017)
Album: Jeremih & Chance the Rapper, Merry Christmas Lil Mama: Rewrapped (Disc One) (2017)
“Stranger at the Table” from Jeremih & Chance the Rapper’s Merry Christmas Lil Mama: Rewrapped is a soulful and Chicago-rooted Christmas track. Set over warm electric piano chords, the song subtly incorporates juke influences and features contributions from Chicago artists King Louie and TekLife’s DJ Spinn and Gant-Man. Jeremih’s verse is characteristically smooth and romantic, while King Louie’s adds a more overtly lustful dimension. Chance the Rapper provides a hook that grounds the song in traditional Christmas themes, reminding listeners of the holiday’s religious significance as Jesus’ birthday. Beyond its festive elements, “Stranger at the Table” serves as a touching tribute to Chicago DJ Rashad, who passed away in 2014, subtly incorporating “R.I.P. Rashad” into the footwork-influenced beat. This Christmas rap song beautifully balances holiday warmth and romance with poignant remembrance, making it a uniquely layered and emotionally resonant track within the genre.
The “Merry Christmas Lil Mama: Rewrapped” album cover, featuring Jeremih & Chance the Rapper’s soulful Christmas rap song, “Stranger at the Table.”
Rae Sremmurd, “Nothing for Christmas” (2018)
Album: N/A
Rae Sremmurd’s “Nothing for Christmas” is a high-energy Christmas banger that provides a contrasting and vibrant addition to the holiday season. Released as part of a two-song pack with Swae Lee’s more mellow “Christmas At Swae’s,” “Nothing for Christmas” sees Slim Jxmmi channeling a Mississippian Grinch persona. Exploding with energy, Slim Jxmmi declares his Christmas is far from sweet, opening with the assertive lines, “Your bad ass ain’t gettin’ nothin’ for Christmas,” underscored by playful “freaky girl” ad-libs. True to Rae Sremmurd’s signature style, this track is an instant party starter. Even with jingle bells subtly incorporated in the background, “Nothing for Christmas” is designed to get you moving, proving that Christmas rap can be just as energetic and turnt-up as any of Rae Sremmurd’s hits. It’s a perfect choice for a high-energy holiday party playlist.
A promotional image for Rae Sremmurd’s “Nothing for Christmas”, an energetic and unconventional Christmas rap song.
Tyler, the Creator “Big Bag” (2018)
Album: Tyler, the Creator, Music Inspired by Illumination & Dr. Seuss’ ‘The Grinch’ (2018)
Tyler, the Creator’s unique and vibrant musical style seamlessly blends with the classic story of The Grinch in “Big Bag.” Featured on Music Inspired by Illumination & Dr. Seuss’ ‘The Grinch’, Tyler’s interpretation doesn’t soften the Grinch; instead, it delves into the character’s perspective with manic energy. Through giddy internal rhymes and cymbal-heavy percussion, Tyler portrays the Grinch as a compelling anti-hero. While the Grinch might not actually listen to “Hot in Herre,” Tyler’s creative vision makes imagining it a delightful possibility. “Big Bag” showcases Tyler, the Creator’s continued artistic innovation, proving that even a well-known Christmas story can be reimagined with fresh and unconventional sounds within the realm of Christmas rap music.
The album cover for Tyler, the Creator’s “Music Inspired by Illumination & Dr. Seuss’ ‘The Grinch'”, featuring the Christmas rap song “Big Bag.”
Gucci Mane, “Jingle Bales” (2019)
Album: East Atlanta Santa 3
No Christmas rap playlist is complete without the East Atlanta Santa himself, Gucci Mane, and “Jingle Bales” from East Atlanta Santa 3 is a prime example of his holiday hip hop prowess. Before releasing the track, Gucci declared it the “hardest Christmas song ever,” and it’s hard to disagree. Over a hard-hitting beat by J. White Did It, Gucci infuses Christmas spirit with his signature street swagger, delivering memorable lines like, “Coke like Christmas and pints like Easter.” The music video, featuring Gucci crashing SantaCon in New York City, further amplifies the song’s legendary status. “Jingle Bales” is a quintessential Gucci Mane Christmas anthem, blending festive themes with his unmistakable style and cementing his place as a king of Christmas rap.
The “East Atlanta Santa 3” album cover, featuring Gucci Mane’s hard-hitting Christmas rap track, “Jingle Bales.”
Lil Nas X, “Holiday” (2020)
Album: Lil Nas X, “Holiday” Single (2020)
Lil Nas X’s “Holiday” served as a clever bridge between his breakthrough 7 EP and his full-length debut, “Montero.” Released as a standalone single, “Holiday” boasts production from Tay Keith and Take a Daytrip, ensuring its modern hip hop appeal. In the track’s visually stunning music video, co-directed by Gibson Hazard, Lil Nas X himself takes on the role of Santa Claus, further solidifying the Christmas theme. The “Holiday” rollout even included a notable collaboration with Michael J. Fox, adding a unique pop culture dimension to its release. “Holiday” is a contemporary Christmas rap song that showcases Lil Nas X’s genre-bending artistry and his ability to create catchy, visually engaging music that resonates with a wide audience, even during the holiday season.
The single cover for Lil Nas X’s “Holiday”, a modern and visually striking Christmas rap song.
Gucci Mane, “St. Brick Intro” (2016)
Album: Gucci Mane, The Return of East Atlanta Santa (2016)
Gucci Mane makes a second well-deserved appearance on this list with “St. Brick Intro” from The Return of East Atlanta Santa. Released during Gucci’s incredibly prolific 2016, this album opener, produced by Zaytoven, is a celebratory anthem. Gucci himself explains in the verses that the song is a tribute to his status as a “neighborhood philanthropist,” a fittingly generous sentiment for the holiday season. “St. Brick Intro” is classic Gucci Mane, blending his signature flow with Christmas themes, solidifying his consistent contribution to the Christmas rap genre and reaffirming his East Atlanta Santa persona. It’s a powerful opening to a Christmas album, setting a festive and celebratory tone.
The album cover for Gucci Mane’s “The Return of East Atlanta Santa”, featuring the Christmas rap intro track “St. Brick Intro.”
TLC, “Sleigh Ride” (1992)
Album: Various Artists, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York Soundtrack (1992)
TLC’s rendition of “Sleigh Ride” is a unique entry, appearing on both the Home Alone 2: Lost in New York Soundtrack and a LaFace Records Christmas compilation. Regardless of where you first encountered it, TLC’s “Sleigh Ride” has become a beloved seasonal staple. TLC brings their signature smooth harmonies and R&B flair to this Christmas classic, transforming it into a fresh and funky holiday jam. While not strictly a rap song, it embodies the spirit of 90s hip hop and R&B infused Christmas music, making it a perfect inclusion for a diverse holiday playlist. TLC’s “Sleigh Ride” showcases the genre-bending nature of Christmas music and its ability to incorporate various styles for a festive feel.
The “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York Soundtrack” album cover, featuring TLC’s R&B infused Christmas track “Sleigh Ride.”
Outkast, “Player’s Ball” (1993)
Album: Various Artists, A LaFace Family Christmas (1993)
Outkast’s “Player’s Ball” boasts a dual history, initially appearing on the A LaFace Family Christmas compilation in 1993 before gaining wider recognition on their debut album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik in 1994. The “Christmas mix” version, as it’s now known, is the original holiday iteration of this iconic track. “Player’s Ball” marked an early pivotal moment in Outkast’s career, foreshadowing their immense success and lasting influence on hip hop. Even in its Christmas-themed version, the track showcases Outkast’s signature Southern hip hop sound and lyrical innovation, making it a significant and foundational Christmas rap song. It highlights the early blending of regional hip hop sounds with holiday themes, paving the way for future Christmas rap subgenres.
The “A LaFace Family Christmas” album cover, featuring Outkast’s early Christmas rap hit “Player’s Ball.”
Christmas rap songs have evolved from a novelty genre to a vibrant and diverse part of holiday music. From the old-school classics that started it all to the modern trap-infused anthems of today, this playlist offers a journey through the history of Christmas hip hop. So this holiday season, ditch the traditional carols and turn up the bass with these essential Christmas rap songs to bring a unique and festive flavor to your celebrations.
