OG diva Jody Watley has given us one of the best gifts this holiday season: New music! Her latest release, a jazzy rendition of the timeless holiday tune “Christmas Time Is Here,” has kicked our Christmas spirit into high gear as we snuggle up by a fireplace, sip hot chocolate and nibble freshly-baked Christmas cookies.
The GRAMMY Award-winning songstress’ silky-smooth voice elevates the oft-covered Vince Guaraldi classic from the iconic soundtrack for A Charlie Brown Christmas. Her effortless vocals are the perfect complement to a song about the beauty and joy embodied by the most wonderful time of the year. “Christmas time is here / We’ll be drawing near / Oh, that we could always see / Such spirit through the year,” she sings, and we couldn’t agree with this heartfelt sentiment more.
“This is an ambient and chill rendition perfect for warm cocoa, a laid-back atmosphere and a fireplace real or virtual,” said Watley of the song, released independently on her label Avitone Recordings. “I originally recorded this for my devoted fans and had it available for a free download for a short while quite some time ago.”
The single, co-produced by Watley and longtime producer Rodney Lee, has now been widely released for all the superstar’s fans around the world to enjoy. “This is the first official release of the newly mixed and remastered single, and I’m happy it will now be available on all streaming platforms for holiday seasons to come,” Watley said in press for the project.
Jody Watley’s rendition of “Christmas Time Is Here” has warmed our hearts and filled us with lots of joy and good cheer. Whether you’re full of the Christmas spirit or struggling with your inner Grinch, take a listen now and thank us later.
Give this living legend her flowers by streaming "Christmas Time Is Here" below and on all digital music platforms. To keep up with all things Jody Watley – past, present and future – subscribe to her YouTube channel, check out her website and follow her on socials at @jodywatley.
