About the song
The Drifters’ rendition of “White Christmas” is a timeless classic that brings a unique and soulful twist to the holiday standard. Released in 1954, this version of the iconic song is part of the album “A Christmas Gift for You”, which was produced by the legendary Phil Spector. The Drifters’ take on “White Christmas” stands out for its rich vocal harmonies and smooth, R&B-infused arrangement, setting it apart from other versions of the song.
The meaning of “White Christmas” remains largely consistent across its various interpretations: it is a nostalgic longing for a traditional snowy Christmas, evoking images of a picturesque winter scene and the warmth of holiday traditions. Written by Irving Berlin and originally popularized by Bing Crosby, the song expresses a sentimental yearning for a classic, snow-covered holiday experience. The Drifters’ version adds a layer of emotional depth through their soulful delivery and intricate vocal harmonies, making the song feel fresh and distinctive while still honoring the original sentiment.
Released as part of the album “A Christmas Gift for You”, this version of “White Christmas” was part of a groundbreaking collection that featured a blend of traditional Christmas songs with innovative production techniques. The album, with its lush orchestration and pioneering use of “wall of sound” production, was ahead of its time and has since become a beloved holiday classic. The Drifters’ performance of “White Christmas” contributed significantly to the album’s success and solidified their reputation as one of the premier vocal groups of the era.
Socially, “White Christmas” by The Drifters reflects the broader trends in music during the 1950s, particularly the rise of rhythm and blues and its influence on popular music. The song’s soulful interpretation provided a fresh take on a holiday favorite, appealing to both R&B fans and a wider audience. It also highlighted the versatility of holiday music, demonstrating how traditional songs could be reimagined through different musical lenses. The track’s enduring popularity exemplifies the lasting appeal of The Drifters’ music and their ability to infuse classic standards with their unique style.
In summary, “White Christmas” by The Drifters is a classic holiday song that brings a distinctive R&B flavor to Irving Berlin’s timeless tune. Released in 1954 as part of the influential album “A Christmas Gift for You”, this rendition showcases the band’s exceptional vocal talent and the innovative production of the time. Its heartfelt interpretation and enduring popularity underscore The Drifters’ significant contribution to holiday music and their role in shaping the genre’s evolution.
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Lyrics
Ooh, doop doop, doop doo doopOoh, doop doop, doop doo doopI’m dreaming of a white ChristmasJust like the ones I used to knowWhere those treetops glisten and children listenTo hear sleigh bells in the snow, the snowThen I, I, I am dreaming of a white ChristmasWith every Christmas card I writeMay your days, may your days, may your days be merry and brightAnd may all your Christmases be whiteI, I, I am dreaming of a white ChristmasJust like the ones I used to knowWhere the treetops glisten and children listenTo hear sleigh bells in the snowI, I, I am dreaming of a white ChristmasWith every Christmas card I writeMay your days, may your days, may your days be merry and brightAnd may all your Christmases be whiteJingle bells, jingle bellsJingle all the way, ooh