This Christmas - Donny Hathaway
"This Christmas" is a classic holiday song performed by Donny Hathaway. The track was released in 1970 and has since become a beloved Christmas anthem. The song's theme revolves around the joy and excitement of the holiday season, with Hathaway expressing his love and gratitude for his significant other. The lyrics convey a sense of warmth, love, and togetherness that is synonymous with Christmas. Musically, "This Christmas" is a soulful and upbeat track that features Hathaway's smooth and soulful vocals. The song is driven by a lively arrangement of horns, strings, and piano, creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere. The catchy melody and infectious chorus make it a popular choice for holiday playlists and radio stations. One notable fact about "This Christmas" is that it has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Christina Aguilera, Chris Brown, and Pentatonix. Despite the various renditions, Donny Hathaway's original version remains a timeless classic that continues to bring joy and cheer to listeners during the holiday season.
Donny Hathaway
Donny Hathaway was a highly influential American singer, songwriter, arranger, and pianist who rose to fame in the 1970s. He was born on October 1, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois. Hathaway showed prodigious musical talent from a young age, learning to play the piano by ear at the age of three and performing in church choirs as a child. Hathaway's career took off in the late 1960s when he began working as a session musician and arranger for various artists, including Aretha Franklin and The Staple Singers. In 1970, he released his debut album, Everything Is Everything, which showcased his soulful voice and jazz-influenced piano playing. The album was a critical and commercial success, establishing Hathaway as a rising star in the music industry. Throughout the 1970s, Hathaway continued to release hit albums such as Donny Hathaway (1971), Extension of a Man (1973), and Live (1972), which featured his iconic duet with Roberta Flack, "Where Is the Love." Hathaway's music was known for its emotional depth, soulful melodies, and socially conscious lyrics, addressing themes of love, politics, and spirituality. Hathaway's impact on music was profound, as he bridged the gap between jazz, soul, and R&B, creating a unique sound that resonated with audiences of all backgrounds. His vocal range, emotive delivery, and impeccable musicianship set him apart from his contemporaries, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Despite his success, Donny Hathaway struggled with mental health issues throughout his life, which ultimately led to his tragic death in 1979. His untimely passing at the age of 33 left a void in the music world, but his legacy lived on through his timeless music and influence on future generations of artists. Donny Hathaway's contributions to music continue to be celebrated to this day, with his songs being sampled by hip-hop artists, covered by contemporary singers, and revered by fans around the world. His soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and musical prowess cement his legacy as one of the greatest artists of his generation.