Christmas Songs of The South

Christmas Songs by bands of The South

You can't have a Christmas Time without Christmas songs. Everywhere you go during this time of year you hear them and, often, they stick in your head and eventually drive you crazy if you're not particularly a fan of that song. But, everyone has their favorites and many of those songs have been written or performed by Southerners. Here are a few of the best Southern Christmas songs.

Alabama - Christmas in Dixie

This song is heartwarming, but it projects a bit of a lonely feeling that stirs mixed emotions. The mood is of one who, perhaps, isn't with his family this Christmas and has a long way to go. With the leaves off the trees and the everyone staying inside all the time, wintertime already has a slightly depressing aura surrounding it and this tune really highlights it. However, if you are lucky enough to be with your loved ones on Christmas and are possibly drinking some wine or eggnog or Irish Coffee then I could see this song really making you feel all fuzzy inside.

James Brown - Soulful Christmas

Not going to have the blues with this funky tune! The only things that makes this song feel like a Christmas song is that he mentions Christmas. Otherwise, it feels like a 1970s Saturday night boogie tune. Play this at any Christmas party and, assuming you're not with a bunch of squares, most of the room is going to get up and dance.

Hootie & The Blowfish - The Christmas Song

Originally performed by Nat King Cole, this is a classic tune that many of us, probably, think of by another name altogether. It was first released in 1947, but Hootie & The Blowfish do a fine rendition below in their typical, affable style.

Tom Petty - Christmas All Over Again

Another great tune for a Holiday Party! Jingle bells in the background, big drums, harmonies and an overall happy mood. The lyrics are filled with nostalgia, humor, and true to form to the Christmas spirit - speaking of toys, elated kids, long-distance relatives, mama getting her shopping done, and that special someone under the mistletoe. Tom Petty's subtle voice goes right along with the jovial vibe. It makes you want to dance, but one could be perfectly at ease standing in corner, bobbing your head and sipping a gut warming libation.

Many may not know it, but Tom Petty was born and raised in Gainesville, Florida, which, unlike South Florida, is still The South.

The Avett Brothers - Away In A Manger

A sweet rendition of a classic that even will your granny will enjoy. I remember hearing Away In A Manger around Christmas time for as far back as my memory goes, near 'bout. Being that the performance below takes place in Washington, D.C. I a little surprised that they were even allowed to mention Jesus with the hypersensitivity going around these days. These North Carolina boys do a fine job on this one.  It almost sounds like an old timey church hymnal tune by some settlers in the 19th century.