The War On Christmas...Music

Frank Sinatra: The Christmas Waltz
from A Jolly Christmas From Frank Sinatra (Capitol 1957)


Since it's Christmas (actually the 24th as I write this) I suppose i should be joining the mass of audiobloggers who have posted the obligatory Christmas song. I could probably post something obscure or non-traditional but the reality of it is is that I hate most mainstream Christmas music and I rarely ever go out of my way to track down or listen to the non-traditional stuff, but there are some songs that I enjoy and Frank Sinatra's version of The Christmas Waltz is one of them. The reason that I like this song so much is that it's in waltz time (obviously) and the 3/4 time of the waltz with it's one chord per measure, 1-2-3 beat is so infectious that anything composed in that manner (classical pieces, mariachi tunes, popular songs etc.) tends to catch my ear. Although putting lyrics over music composed in waltz time sometimes sounds awkward, the composers, Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne, and the arranger, Gordon Jenkins make the most out of what they've got, and Frank does a fine job himself. So for what it's worth, merry christmas and happy holidays.

And if you're wondering about the hideously smiling pic of John Gibson above, click on it to see him blow his stack promoting his "war" on christmas. He's not exactly in the best holiday spirits. Also, if you love Christmas music but are tired of the same old same old, give Soul Shower a try, they won't steer you wrong. Hell if you just love good music peep out his site and keep it bookmarked while you're at it.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor: Black & White Women
from Bicentennial Nigger (Warner Brothers 1976)

Richard Pryor: Chinese Food
from Wanted: Richard Pryor (Warner Brothers 1979)


Richard Pryor died at the age of 65. CNN.com has written a nice piece on his death, complete with links to some video pieces. The clips I've provided may not be his best work but they are indicative of his comedic genius.