When you think of classic Christmas carols of the past, songs like “Someday at Christmas” and “Silent Night” by Stevie Wonder and The Temptations, respectively, come to mind. However, who would’ve thought rappers could create songs parallel to the aforementioned? Kurtis Blow and RUN-DMC’s “Christmas Rappin'” and “Christmas in Hollis,” respectively, took on the challenge.
Kurtis Blow dropped “Christmas Rappin'” in 1979. Hip Hop was new relatively new — and so was “Christmas Rappin’,” obviously. Nevertheless, the Harlem native delivered what would be a timeless classic.
[Tune In To HipHop-Album-Debate, “The Podcast” Every Tuesday and Friday!]
“Bout a red-suited dude with a friendly attitude,” Kurtis spits. “And a sleigh full of goodies for the people on the block. Got a long white beard, maybe looks kind a weird. And if you ever see him, he could give you quite a shock.”
Nearly 8 years later, RUN-DMC felt the holiday spirit as well when they dropped, “Christmas in Hollis.” Despite Hip Hop growing in age, it was still believed to be a fad. Needless to say, it wasn’t a easy task for the duo from Hollis Queens. But like their forefather, Kurtis, they delivered a smash.
“It’s Christmas time in Hollis Queens,” DMC rhymes. “Mom’s cooking chicken and collard greens. Rice and stuffing, macaroni and cheese, and Santa put gifts under Christmas trees.
These two records proved that even Christmas Hip Hop records can stand alongside the classics from yesteryear.
Kurtis Blow’s “Christmas Rapping” or RUN-DMC’s “Christmas in Hollis?”
[Polls Are Closed!]
Kurtis Blow – “Christmas Rapping” – 75%
RUN-DMC – “Christmas in Hollis” – 25%