The holidays are upon us and Florida A&M University students across the ‘Hill’ are striking up the cheer with some of their favorite musical artists.
Traditionally, the holidays are filled with carols and the occasional rendition of “Jingle Bells.” But FAMU is a melting pot filled with students from diverse backgrounds who celebrate with their special twist, and Christmas music is no exception.
During this time of year, students are beginning to trade in their party and study playlists for merrier compilations. There are a plethora of artists and genres that Rattlers tune into but a few reign supreme including R&B, soul, pop, rap and gospel.
The holiday favorite, “All I want for Christmas” by Mariah Carey is usually a sure-fire way to get the eggnog flowing regardless of the crowd. Unsurprisingly, this record has made the cut for many FAMU students including Jade Franklin, a junior psychology student. Franklin’s spirit, however, doesn’t stop there. She enjoys artists from all sides of the spectrum.
“Some of my favorite Christmas songs are from the 90s. I especially love TLC and their catalog but when I want to get into the spirit nothing is better than ‘Silent Night’ by the Temptations,” said Franklin.
Although Franklin has touched a few important musical bases she is not the only Rattler with a nostalgic side. Lizzie McColly, a senior history student, considers herself an old soul and loves classic Christmas music.
McColly is a Chicago native and unlike Floridians, she is accustomed to the full holiday experience, snow angels included. However, in her opinion, nothing holds a candle to the iconic voices of Donny Hathaway and Eartha Kitt during December.
“I grew up listening to them on the radio, but I also really like old music in general. It just has that energy to it. It’s different and I don’t really like newer Christmas music. I feel like the classics give (Christmas) that traditional ‘It feels like Christmas’ vibe,” said McColly.
Soul classics are always a safe bet but the holidays wouldn’t be the holidays on the “Hill” without a taste of rap flavor. So it is only right that Chance the Rapper’s “Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama” mixtape was added to the long list of Rattler faves.
“My favorite holiday album is Chance the Rapper’s holiday album he dropped a few years ago. This is my favorite because it is a Christmas rap album and it’s something different so I appreciate it,” said Korpo Sumo, a senior social work student.
As the semester closes and winter break approaches it is safe to say some Rattlers are eager to dive into the Christmas spirit while others have already gotten a head start.