Home for Christmas: A Musical Journey Through Winter Classics
For a lot of people in Fort McMurray, 2016 changed our opinion of what “home” means. Some of us lost our homes and struggled (or are still struggling) to regain that feeling. All of us were forced to find temporary homes, and that feeling was far from comfortable. This year, more than ever, it’s important for us to find a sense of home and security. And what could feel more like home than being bundled up in our Onesies, surrounded by loved ones, curled up around the fire? Because while fire represented a lot of things to Fort McMurray this year, staring at a safely contained fire can be one of the most peaceful feelings in the world. Even if some of us will probably prefer the Fireplace Channel this year. So refill that egg nog, hang those stockings with care, and pop in this homey playlist of warm, holiday musings from some of yesterday and today’s best artists.
The Christmas Song
By Nat King Cole
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire sure evokes a peaceful image, doesn’t it? Now I can’t remember the last time I had a chestnut, but I’m sure Planter’s Almonds or Quality Street are a suitable substitute. It doesn’t matter what your snack of choice is, as long as you’re warm and away from Jack Frost. He can wait to nip another day…
I’ll Be Home for Christmas
By Bing Crosby
Originally written from the point of view of an overseas soldier during World War II, this song takes on new meaning in the 21st century, especially in a place like Fort McMurray. Many of us have family scattered all across the country, and with work schedules plus the extreme expense of traveling around the holidays sometimes it just isn’t possible to have everyone home for Christmas. But wherever home is for you, hopefully this song brings back fond memories.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
By Michael Bublé
There are millions of versions of this classic. From Judy Garland to Ol’ Blue Eyes himself, we went with the version by Canadian crooner Michael Bublé. We always support our own artists in Canada and with a voice as dreamy as Bublé’s- how could you resist?
Silent Night
by Frank Sinatra
Speaking of Sinatra, you know we had to include a little something of his, didn’t you? This cut comes from Ol’ Blue Eyes third album “Christmas Songs by Sinatra” released in 1948 as a 10” LP- or as the kids call it today…. vinyl. It is rare in a hectic busy city like Fort McMurray to find a night where all is calm, but in those rare moments of refuge, it is great to sip some cocoa and reflect on all we have to be thankful for!
Merry Christmas
By Bruce Springsteen
Here’s one for all the couples and who better to serenade your significant other in a way that’s both romantic and, to be frank….pretty sexy too, than The Boss himself? That voice……
Santa’s Gonna Come In A Pickup Truck
By Alan Jackson
Could there be a more appropriate song for Christmas in Fort McMurray? I mean try getting around in a Prius once the snow falls. Santa’s probably coming in a lifted truck, but if he is bringing his sleigh I hope he brought a tow strap!
Christmas (Baby Please come Home)
By Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey is an important part of Christmas for many 90’s kids like me…. But instead of All I Want for Christmas which I’m pretty sure is the most overplayed Christmas song in existence, we’ll go with this classic, originally recorded by Darlene Love in 1963.
Driving Home for Christmas
By Chris Rea
The choice to include this 1986 song in 2016 was partly influenced by the skyrocketing of flight prices around Christmas time….and also influenced by the completion of the twinning of Highway 63. Not an easy drive to make in the winter- but at the very least slightly less of a white knuckle ride in years previous! Drive safe, regardless!
If We Make It Through December
By Merle Haggard
2016 was a rough year. Even without “The Beast” it was a year of hardship for many families as the economy continued to lead to job cuts and financial difficulties. Add to that fact we lost many beloved celebrities this year- including The Hag himself. But the best part about Country music is it’s honest real- and sometimes life isn’t all bells and whistles. On that note, though… let’s get something a little happier.
Happy Xmas (War Is Over)
By John Lennon & Yoko Ono
Originally doubling as both a Christmas greeting and a protest of the Vietnam war- it’s safe to say this song has aged extremely well and still ranks among the all-time greats. It’s also a song that can extend into the New Year celebrations and the lyric “Let’s hope it’s a good one- without any fear” certainly hopes for a more stable spring and summer than the one we all experienced.
