While there were no plans in place to compile a holiday-themed feature this year with this final Snappy Singles article, we very quickly became overwhelmed by a sudden blitz of festive tunes dropping into the GDW inbox throughout November. And just as we’d found four tracks on which to focus, that email notification bell would ping… and ping… and ping some more.
With so many choices, we could not be Scrooge-like here in December, so we’re bringing you a generous serving of holiday cheer. If a festive tune (a single – not an EP or album) from a Canadian artist landed in our email inbox (or dropped into our social media feeds) last month, the first twenty received are likely to be here. The first holiday tune for the season reached us on the very first day of November – which we’ll reward with some devoted editorial space – before listing all those that followed with a brief synopsis of their holiday tune/theme.
Consider this your own Holiday Hits Jukebox for the 2024 season to enjoy whilst untangling the tinsel and stringing up those holiday lights. We’re listing them in the order received (not necessarily released) – date stamped too (acknowledged), so you can see who got into the holiday spirits earlier than others…
And just who was the first artist to drop a holiday tune into the GDW inbox?
Melanie Peterson, “All Roads Lead Home This Christmas” (Nov 1st)
Known for releasing (an often romantic) holiday tune each year, Toronto’s Melanie Peterson challenged herself to seek inspiration of a different kind for her 2024 single, and instead turns to her own childhood memories of family gatherings around the holidays – delivering this ode in a delightful early 70s pop-country style.
For Melanie, there were two significant challenges that she faced – the first being extra selective with the images portrayed through her lyrics, which had to be relatable to the season, and the second, choosing musical arrangements that are synonymous with the holidays – sleigh bells, piano, and a variety of effects such as clinking glasses and party chatter were essential.
Performing this tune at the historic Dakota Tavern during the 2023 holiday season, Melanie knew that this was to be her song this time around. This uplifting track captures perfectly her love and affection for not only the annual festivities, but the longing for being around family, and her eagerness to perhaps travel home for the holidays.
And look how quickly things escalated… 19 more coming up…
Brittany Kennell, “Cowboy Santa” (Nov 4th)
When you think you’ve heard everything ‘country holiday theme’ imaginable, how can you ignore the line ‘there’s a Silverado in the driveway and tumbleweed instead of mistletoe?’
Scott Mackay, “I Want An Ex-Husband For Christmas” (Nov 4th)
Kudos to Scott for this unique perspective on the plight of the frustrated wives out there whose husbands prove to be useless around the holidays. Fellas – pay attention!
Jill Barber, “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” (Nov 7th)
Recorded in both English and French, Jill wants us to consider that there’s more to the Grinch than meets the eye – that deep down, he’s perhaps not a rotten apple at all.
Skydiggers, “Song For A Winter’s Night” (Nov 7th)
No strangers to holiday-themed tunes, Toronto’s Skydiggers share this contemplative cover of a Gordon Lightfoot classic for the tenth anniversary of their “Angels” album
Madisyn Gifford, “Merry Christmas, Go Away!” (Nov 9th)
Vancouver, BC singer-songwriter Madisyn Gifford offers this tale of an unwelcome person showing up at Christmas with a gift, hoping it will erase their mistakes – as if, right?
Coleman Hell, “Grandma’s House” (Nov 10th)
Even Coleman has dropped a holiday tune – his first – and reminisces about his much-loved visits with his grandparents around the holidays – the heart and soul of his family.
Steven Taetz, “My Christmas Wish” (Nov 11th)
Preface your email with a fun picture of a cute dog and an ugly holiday sweater, and you’re a lock to make the cut. This take on trad-modern festive music is what we need to hear.
Matthew Holtby, “Away This Christmas” (Nov 12th)
ON-based singer-songwriter Matthew Holtby channels the great tradition of Canadian Snowbirds and wishes how he too could simply go someplace warm for the holidays.
Madison Olds, “Christmas Everyday” (Nov 12th)
With her heartfelt lyrics and versatile sound, Madison brings a jazzy feel-good vibe and invites everyone to embrace the magic of the holidays, even in the summer!
Quote The Raven, “Christmas Lullaby” (Nov 12th)
The Newfoundland duo tap into the traditional aura of the festive season, creating this charming tale of Santa Claus, decorating trees, and the anticipation of Christmas Day.
Hawksley Workman, “Everybody’s Going Home For Christmas” (Nov 12th)
There’s only a handful of artists I would call out if asked who was likely to offer up a holiday song from the perspective of an overworked reindeer. Hawksley would be one of them.
Don Amero, “All We Should Make At Christmas” (Nov 13th)
The JUNO-nominated Winnipeg artist sends out this much-needed message of seeking out love and unity rather than exacerbating hate and division during this festive season.
Maya Malkin, “Chill Christmas (With You)” (Nov 14th)
Even after just releasing her latest album, Toronto indie-pop artist Maya Malkin still found time to surprise us with a holiday gift – spending Christmas Day in your PJs – and why not?
Shawnee Kish, “Favourite Gift” (Nov 15th)
Currently riding the CP Holiday Train, Shawnee Kish felt inspired to release her first holiday themed single after the life-changing arrival of her (now) 4-month-old daughter Harley.
Maude Audet, “C’est Noël quand tu es là” (Nov 15th)
With our increased commitment to Francophone music this year, this fresh cut from Montréal artist Maude Audet signals our first inclusion of a Québecois holiday tune.
Tim Baker, “Light The Light” (Nov 15th)
Here’s proof that you can’t take the Newfoundland roots out of the artist – no matter where he now calls home, Baker drops a collection of Maritimes inspired festive tunes.
Alex Whorms, “This Christmas It’s Only You And Me” (Nov 19th)
This emerging Hamilton jazz-pop artist loves a good holiday tune – appearing in our 2022 “Festive Finds,” and forgoing the piano this time for peppy keys and bouncy pop lyrics.
Jessica Rhaye and the Ramshackle Parade, “Oh Let’s Go” (Nov 19th)
Working two separate (yet uniquely distinct) music projects this year, New Brunswick’s Jessica Rhaye finds time to add a holiday tune to her ever-growing repertoire. Bliss.
The Sheepdogs / BROS, “Santa Man / Hot Christmas” (Nov 21st)
Wrapping things up with a double whammy of holiday delights, Ewan and Shamus Currie share a pair of tunes – the first with their Sheepdogs bandmates, the second as BROS.
The British guy that crossed the ocean and crash landed in central Pennsylvania (to quote Greg Keelor, “And I wonder what am I doing here?”). As the youngest of four siblings, exposure to music from a very early age nurtured my passion and appreciation for many musical genres. Continuing to discover some amazingly diverse and talented musicians based in Canada, I gravitate to live music experiences and remain devoted to spreading the word about such a vibrant music scene.
