Once upon a time, releasing a holiday album was an opportunity reserved for the most talented and successful artists of the day. Over the past couple of decades, however, the concept has been milked to the extreme, resulting in an overcrowded marketplace with countless acts presenting their interpretations of Christmas standards (and sometimes questionable originals) in efforts to expand their listening audiences. Consequently, a few timeless sets from back in the day have been unjustly forgotten.
One such album—which, unfortunately, didn't receive proper attention even upon its initial release—is Stephanie Mills' aptly titled (but dynamically assembled) Christmas. Coming several years after her remarkable hit streak of the mid- to late-1980s, the 1991 set was barely promoted—in spite of boasting crisp production by the likes of Narada Michael Walden and Bebe Winans and a brilliant combination of fresh covers and striking new tunes.
Once upon a time, releasing a holiday album was an opportunity reserved for the most talented and successful artists of the day. Over the past couple of decades, however, the concept has been milked to the extreme, resulting in an overcrowded marketplace with countless acts presenting their interpretations of Christmas standards (and sometimes questionable originals) in efforts to expand their listening audiences. Consequently, a few timeless sets from back in the day have been unjustly forgotten.
One such album—which, unfortunately, didn't receive proper attention even upon its initial release—is Stephanie Mills' aptly titled (but dynamically assembled) Christmas. Coming several years after her remarkable hit streak of the mid- to late-1980s, the 1991 set was barely promoted—in spite of boasting crisp production by the likes of Narada Michael Walden and Bebe Winans and a brilliant combination of fresh covers and striking new tunes.
A standout track from Christmas is the spine-tingling midtempo number, "It Doesn't Feel Like Christmas (Without You)." Produced by Mills with Steve Barri and Tony Peluso, the beat-smart tune poetically narrates the contrast between the spirit of the season and the feelings of a lonely heart, sung with just the right balance of sweetness and grit. Complemented by Dave Koz's alto sax and the lush background harmonies of male quartet Company, it's an extremely moving sonic experience that lonely souls can find solace in any time of the year.
Check out this Lost holiday Gem below and let us know how it makes you feel!
Stephanie Mills
"It Doesn't Feel Like Christmas (Without You)"