Who Took The Merry Out Of Christmas - The Staple Singers
"Who Took The Merry Out Of Christmas" is a soulful and poignant holiday track by the legendary gospel group The Staple Singers. Released in 1970, the song addresses the commercialization and materialism that has overshadowed the true spirit of Christmas. The composition features the Staple Singers' signature blend of gospel, soul, and R&B, with powerful vocals from lead singer Mavis Staples and harmonious backing vocals from the group. The instrumentation includes a lively and upbeat rhythm section, along with soulful horns and organ that add a festive touch to the track. The lyrics of "Who Took The Merry Out Of Christmas" reflect on the loss of joy and goodwill during the holiday season, as the singers lament the focus on consumerism and greed. The song serves as a reminder to listeners to remember the true meaning of Christmas and to prioritize love, compassion, and togetherness over material possessions. Notable for its powerful message and soulful delivery, "Who Took The Merry Out Of Christmas" remains a timeless holiday classic that continues to resonate with listeners to this day. It serves as a reminder to reflect on the values of the holiday season and to spread joy and kindness to others.
The Staple Singers
The Staple Singers were a highly influential gospel, soul, and R&B group that emerged in the 1950s and made a lasting impact on the music industry. The group was formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 1948 by patriarch Roebuck "Pops" Staples and consisted of his children Cleotha, Pervis, Yvonne, and Mavis Staples. The Staple Singers quickly gained recognition for their unique blend of gospel harmonies, soulful vocals, and socially conscious lyrics. They became known for their powerful performances and uplifting messages, which resonated with audiences across the country. Their music often addressed themes of civil rights, social justice, and love, earning them a reputation as one of the most socially conscious groups of their time. Throughout their career, The Staple Singers achieved numerous milestones and accolades. They scored their first major hit in 1956 with the song "Uncloudy Day," which became a gospel standard. They went on to release a string of successful albums and singles, including "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," "Respect Yourself," and "I'll Take You There," which became their biggest hit and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972. The Staple Singers' impact on music was far-reaching and enduring. They were pioneers in blending gospel, soul, and R&B music, paving the way for future artists and influencing genres such as funk, disco, and hip-hop. Their socially conscious lyrics and activism also inspired a generation of musicians to use their platform for social change and justice. In addition to their musical achievements, The Staple Singers were also active participants in the civil rights movement, performing at numerous rallies, marches, and events in support of equality and justice. Their music became anthems for the movement, providing a soundtrack for activists and protesters fighting for change. Despite the passing of some of its members, The Staple Singers' legacy continues to live on through their timeless music and enduring influence. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999 and received numerous other honors and awards for their contributions to music and society. The Staple Singers' music remains a powerful testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite people across generations.