Written by popular orchestra leader Paul Whiteman in 1934, “Christmas Night In Harlem” is today most closely associated with Louis Armstrong, who recorded his famous version in 1955.
Times and tastes have changed quite a bit in the five decades since, so now Chicago-native Kanye West travels to the storied New York City ‘hood for the holidays. Helping West deliver his surprisingly festive “Christmas In Harlem” are Teyana Taylor, who handles the hook and other singing-like parts, and CyHi Da Prynce, who raps in the role of Santa Claus, red suit and all. Hear here:
But the never-content-to-rest West has delivered a double-dose of hip-hop cheer, orchestrating a second version of “Christmas In Harlem” with a lengthier guest list. Cam’Ron, Jim Jones, Pusha T, and Big Sean join Kanye, CyHi, and Teyana for an extended NYC celebration.
As a gift to all the G.O.O.D. girls and boys, Santa Kanye has pulled both tracks out of his sack as free downloads via his record label’s blog. West had also tweeted about contributions from Dipset, Vado, Musiq Soulchild, but they aren’t listed in the credits, so maybe take three will soon be under the tree.
Free download of Kanye West feat. CyHi Da Prynce and Teyana Taylor – “Christmas In Harlem.”
Free download of Kanye West feat. Teyana Taylor, Cam’Ron, Jim Jones, Pusha T, Big Sean, and CyHi Da Prynce – “Christmas In Harlem.”