The roots of the Christmas holiday go all the way back to Bethlehem some 2000 years ago. It was there, as the story goes, that a child named Jesus was born in a manger and lived to become the figurehead of one of the world’s great religions, Christianity.
Many American roots musicians belong to the Christian faith, especially in the bluegrass genre. and their beliefs are often reflected in their music. Since No Depression is a non-denominational website (which means I don’t get paid to write this, haha),, I thought it would be fun to take a little journey down the non-secular side of the Christmas playlist and hear from some of the greatest American roots musicians of the last century.
Represented here are Bill Monroe from bluegrass, B.B King from the blues, Charlie Parker from jazz, Bob Dylan from folk, and Merle Haggard from country. Five virtual stocking stuffers of sonic Christmas cheer, with something for each and evey lover of American roots music.
Merry Christmas everyone! And remember – No Depression is allowed on Christmas day!
Bill Monroe – “Christmas Time’s A-Comin'”
B.B King – “Merry Christmas Baby”
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Charlie Parker – “White Christmas”
Bob Dylan – “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”
Merle Haggard – “Silver Bells”
Dan King a featured writer for NoDepression.com, is site administrator for BoundForGlory.net, and contributes to PrescriptionBluegrassBlog.com.
