Christmas has its traditional songs, but there is nothing like the black ones to get you in the holiday mood. Since the record player became available to every Black family, these songs have been leading the way the African American Christmas tradition. Slice up some pie, gather your folks and enjoy this healthy serving of holiday soul.

1. Santa Baby by Eartha Kitt. This song has been redone, remastered and remixed, but it is the original that is still simply the best. Sang with her true Catwoman voice, Santa Baby will remain a classic for generations to come.

2. Merry Christmas Baby by Otis Redding. With this holiday tune, Redding proved that romantic Christmas songs do not have to be corny. In a playful, yet sensuous manner, Redding reminds women what the fun of Christmas really is.

3. Silent Night by the Temptations. The Temptations didn’t write Silent Night, but if you ask any Black American, they might just say they did. The Temptations took a classic Christmas carol and gave it a complete Motown upgrade. It is a Silent Night version that no one can outdo.

4. This Christmas by Donny Hathaway. In the African American tradition, Christmas hasn’t always been about expensive gifts. Donny Hathaway reminds us what Christmas is really about- the gift of each other.

5. Santa Claus Goes Straight to the Ghetto by James Brown. It takes a superstar like James Brown to give playful soul to any ordinary thing, and Santa Claus is no exception. James Brown brings good times to those too poor to buy gifts.

6. Christmas Just Ain’t Christmas Without the One You Love by the O’Jays. This soulful ballad combined the wonders of the holiday with classic rhythm and blues.  It is the perfect song for the Christmas love-struck.

7. Someday at Christmas by the Jackson 5. Sometimes there are more important things to discuss rather than presents. The Jackson 5 present this idea in a song that challenges the world to end inequality.  Stevie Wonder later re-did it.

8. The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole. One of the oldest songs on the list, this song is mistakenly referred to as “The Christmas Song” and “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.” It was covered by many white artists, but the original is still well-loved.

9. Let It Snow by Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight. Take one of the most popular RnB group of the 90’s, add another RnB singer, and have them all sing a children’s carol. The result is surprisingly perfect.

10. What do the Lonely Do at Christmas by The Emotions. While everyone else was singing about Christmas cheer, these ladies were singing about the holiday blues.