Category: Music

Music

Festive music

| admin

Festive music

Today’s post is more light-hearted: my favourite popular Christmas music.
This will form part of a playlist. I don’t have any strict rules, apart from focusing on popular songs. Last year, I made a playlist—which you can find here—with various rules attached. This year, I’m being more flexible, sharing thoughts and a little bit of history along the way. Below are some songs—you may recognise a few.

The list is sorted by release date, showcasing a mix of classics and newer songs:

  • Deck the Halls by Nat King Cole (traditional carol; Nat King Cole’s version released in the 1960s, original carol dates back to 16th-century Wales)
  • Joy to the World by Nat King Cole (traditional carol; Nat King Cole’s version released in the 1960s, original written in 1719)
  • It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas by Perry Como (1951)
  • Jingle Bell Rock by Bobby Helms (1957)
  • Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree by Brenda Lee (1958)
  • It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Andy Williams (1963)
  • Sleigh Ride by The Ronettes (1963)
  • Happy Xmas (War Is Over) by John Lennon (1971)
  • Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney (1979)
  • Walking in the Air by Peter Auty (1982, originally from The Snowman)
  • Do They Know It’s Christmas? by Band Aid (1984)
  • Last Christmas by Wham! (1984)
  • Merry Christmas Everyone by Shakin’ Stevens (1985)
  • Carol of the Bells by John Williams (traditional; this arrangement is from Home Alone (1990), original composed in 1914)
  • Santa Claus Is Coming to Town by Michael Bublé (2011, though the song dates back to 1934)

I may have added more songs than I originally planned, but these are classic Christmas tracks. I’ve included some well-known tunes that are played on repeat during the season. Growing up, I remember these songs being everywhere. Back then, music was more communal: you had the radio and, later, TV. Families would gather to listen or watch scheduled playlists together. You couldn’t pause or replay them, so you had to catch them live.

Today, music feels more personal. With headphones and streaming services, public music has become less common. Streaming allows us to play songs on repeat, turning us into our own DJs. Algorithms create playlists tailored to individual tastes, trapping us in personal bubbles. Unlike in the past, when everyone was exposed to the same songs, the shared experience of loving—or hating—a popular tune is disappearing.

Honestly, that’s a shame. The music industry has changed drastically, shifting from the golden age of physical media to the dominance of streaming. Many of these songs have been covered countless times, often based on older carols. Streaming has even shaped music itself, making songs shorter and faster-paced.

Among the more recent hits, All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey (1994) is iconic. A modern favourite of mine is Snowman by Sia (2017)—it’s rather good. There are also Christmas covers in metal or rock styles, offering a fresh twist on traditional pop versions.

Lately, I’ve come to enjoy jazz at Christmas—it’s calming and refreshing. Examples include O Little Town of Bethlehem by Chris Botti or Oscar Peterson, both offering unique takes on this carol (originally written in 1868). Santa Claus Is Coming to Town by Bill Evans and a jazzy twist on Baby, It’s Cold Outside by Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery are equally brilliant.

Classic carols also have enduring appeal. O Holy Night (1847) and Jingle Bells (1857) are often covered. Carol of the Bells, with its Ukrainian origins, has become timeless. Once in Royal David’s City (1848) and Away in a Manger (1885) remind me of nativity plays, while The Twelve Days of Christmas (1780) is one I can never quite remember all the words to.

Some carols have ancient roots. The oldest I found is Jesus, Light of All the Nations, dating back to 4th-century France. It’s not widely known, and I’ve yet to find a modern performance. Another is The Friendly Beasts, a 12th-century tune still sung today, with a modern version written in 1920.

Modern interpretations, like A Mad Russian’s Christmas by Trans-Siberian Orchestra (1996), mix classical and rock. The band, oddly American, has loads of excellent Christmas-themed music. O Holy Night by Apocalyptica (2008), with its stunning use of violins, is soothing and relaxing.

Finally, I’ll mention Skating by Vince Guaraldi Trio (1965) from the Charlie Brown Christmas special and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy (1892) from The Nutcracker. These remind me of Christmas theatre and festive imagination. For a fun twist, check out Don’t Shoot Me Santa by The Killers (2007) or Winter Lights by Ferran Leal (2020).

In total, this post features 34 songs. Thanks for reading—happy holidays or winter!

Today’s post is more light-hearted: my favourite popular Christmas music.
This will form part of a playlist. Apart from focusing on popular songs, I don’t have any strict rules. Last year, I made a playlist—which you can find here—with various rules attached. This year, I’m being more flexible, sharing thoughts and a bit of history. Below are some songs—you may recognise a few.

The list is sorted by release date, showcasing a mix of classics and newer songs:

  • Deck the Halls by Nat King Cole (traditional carol; Nat King Cole’s version released in the 1960s, original carol dates back to 16th-century Wales)
  • Joy to the World by Nat King Cole (traditional carol; Nat King Cole’s version released in the 1960s, original written in 1719)
  • It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas by Perry Como (1951)
  • Jingle Bell Rock by Bobby Helms (1957)
  • Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree by Brenda Lee (1958)
  • It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Andy Williams (1963)
  • Sleigh Ride by The Ronettes (1963)
  • Happy Xmas (War Is Over) by John Lennon (1971)
  • Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney (1979)
  • Walking in the Air by Peter Auty (1982, originally from The Snowman)
  • Do They Know It’s Christmas? by Band Aid (1984)
  • Last Christmas by Wham! (1984)
  • Merry Christmas Everyone by Shakin’ Stevens (1985)
  • Carol of the Bells by John Williams (traditional; this arrangement is from Home Alone (1990), original composed in 1914)
  • Santa Claus Is Coming to Town by Michael Bublé (2011, though the song dates back to 1934)

I may have added more songs than I originally planned, but these are classic Christmas tracks. I’ve included some well-known tunes that are played on repeat during the season. Growing up, I remember these songs being everywhere. Back then, music was more communal: you had the radio and, later, TV. Families would gather to listen or watch scheduled playlists together. You couldn’t pause or replay them, so you had to catch them live.

Today, music feels more personal. With headphones and streaming services, public music has become less common. Streaming allows us to play songs on repeat, turning us into our own DJs. Algorithms create playlists tailored to individual tastes, trapping us in personal bubbles. Unlike in the past, when everyone was exposed to the same songs, the shared experience of loving—or hating—a popular tune is disappearing.

Honestly, that’s a shame. The music industry has changed drastically, shifting from the golden age of physical media to the dominance of streaming. Many of these songs have been covered countless times, often based on older carols. Streaming has even shaped music itself, making songs shorter and faster-paced.

Among the more recent hits, All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey (1994) is iconic. A modern favourite of mine is Snowman by Sia (2017)—it’s rather good. There are also Christmas covers in metal or rock styles, offering a fresh twist on traditional pop versions.

Lately, I’ve come to enjoy jazz at Christmas—it’s calming and refreshing. Examples include O Little Town of Bethlehem by Chris Botti or Oscar Peterson, both offering unique takes on this carol (originally written in 1868). Santa Claus Is Coming to Town by Bill Evans and a jazzy twist on Baby, It’s Cold Outside by Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery are equally brilliant.

Classic carols also have enduring appeal. O Holy Night (1847) and Jingle Bells (1857) are often covered. Carol of the Bells, with its Ukrainian origins, has become timeless. Once in Royal David’s City (1848) and Away in a Manger (1885) remind me of nativity plays, while The Twelve Days of Christmas (1780) is one I can never quite remember all the words to.

Some carols have ancient roots. The oldest I found is Jesus, Light of All the Nations, dating back to 4th-century France. It’s not widely known, and I’ve yet to find a modern performance. Another is The Friendly Beasts, a 12th-century tune still sung today, with a modern version written in 1920.

Modern interpretations, like A Mad Russian’s Christmas by Trans-Siberian Orchestra (1996), mix classical and rock. The band, oddly American, has loads of excellent Christmas-themed music. O Holy Night by Apocalyptica (2008), with its stunning use of violins, is soothing and relaxing.

Finally, I’ll mention Skating by Vince Guaraldi Trio (1965) from the Charlie Brown Christmas special and the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy (1892) from The Nutcracker. These remind me of Christmas theatre and festive imagination. For a fun twist, check out Don’t Shoot Me Santa by The Killers (2007) or Winter Lights by Ferran Leal (2020).

In total, this post features 34 songs. Thanks for reading—happy holidays or winter!

Movies, Music

James Bond: 60th Anniversary and Top 10 Theme Songs

| admin

My Top 10 James Bond Theme Songs

“James Bond Theme” – Monty Norman and John Barry (1962)
The James Bond Theme is based on an earlier melody Monty Norman composed for a play, originally inspired by Bad Sign, Good Sign. Despite legal battles over its authorship, Norman’s creation became one of cinema’s most recognisable pieces, while John Barry’s orchestration gave it the unmistakable brassy punch that we now associate with Bond. This theme laid the foundation for the franchise’s musical legacy.

“Goldfinger” – Shirley Bassey (1964)
Shirley Bassey’s soaring vocals made Goldfinger an instant classic. Despite technical challenges during its recording and producer Harry Saltzman’s dislike of the track, it was released unchanged. The result is one of the most iconic Bond themes, embodying the franchise’s glamour and intrigue. For many, it remains the defining Bond song.

“On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” – John Barry (1969)
This instrumental theme introduced a synthesiser to Bond’s world, marrying futuristic sounds with Barry’s signature orchestral grandeur. Often overlooked, it is a dynamic piece that stands out in the series for its boldness and innovation. Its brassy, pulsating energy mirrors the film’s tension and style, earning its place as a standout.

“Live and Let Die” – Paul McCartney and Wings (1973)
Paul McCartney and Linda McCartney created the first rock-inspired Bond theme. Its fusion of orchestral drama, reggae interludes, and explosive rock gave the franchise a fresh edge. Paul insisted on performing the song himself, fending off suggestions that another artist should sing it. The result is a thrilling, genre-blending masterpiece that redefined Bond’s soundscape.

“For Your Eyes Only” – Sheena Easton (1981)
Sheena Easton made history as the first performer to appear in the opening credits of a Bond film. The romantic ballad reflects the emotional undercurrents of the film, while Bill Conti’s score perfectly complements her tender performance. Interestingly, Blondie had also penned a theme for the film, but producers chose Easton’s version, which aligned more closely with Bond’s aesthetic.

“The Living Daylights” – a-ha (1987)
a-ha’s The Living Daylights merges the synth-pop energy of the ’80s with Bond’s signature orchestral elements. Despite reported creative tensions between the band and John Barry, the track’s electric vibrancy remains a highlight. It encapsulates Timothy Dalton’s gritty take on Bond while nodding to the franchise’s evolving identity.

“GoldenEye” – Tina Turner (1995)
Written by Bono and The Edge of U2, GoldenEye balances modernity with Bond’s classic flair. Tina Turner’s sultry, powerful vocals pay homage to the grandeur of earlier themes while ushering in a new era for the series. Its cryptic lyrics and dramatic arrangement complement Pierce Brosnan’s debut perfectly.

“The World Is Not Enough” – Garbage (1999)
Garbage delivered a unique take with this alternative rock-inspired theme. Shirley Manson’s haunting vocals and the song’s orchestral flourishes evoke the Bond mystique while exploring a darker tone. The lyrics, written from the villain’s perspective, provide a compelling twist that enriches the film’s narrative.

“Skyfall” – Adele (2012)
Adele’s Skyfall channels the essence of classic Bond themes while infusing a modern sensibility. Her insistence on reading the script to align the lyrics with Bond’s journey paid off, creating a track that is as poignant as it is grand. This song marked a triumphant return to form for Bond, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song—the first Bond theme to do so.

“No Time to Die” – Billie Eilish (2021)
At just 17, Billie Eilish became the youngest artist to record a Bond theme. Written with her brother Finneas, the track captures the sombre tone of Daniel Craig’s final outing as 007. Its understated melody and haunting lyrics reflect Bond’s emotional struggles, serving as a fitting farewell to Craig’s era.

Honourable Mentions and Misses

Some Bond themes, like We Have All the Time in the World by Louis Armstrong, hold a special place for their emotional resonance, while others, such as Madonna’s Die Another Day, feel experimental to a fault. While Die Another Day embraced electronic influences, its heavy use of autotune and techno I don’t enjoy.

For me, instrumental pieces like On Her Majesty’s Secret Service stand out for their innovative blending of tradition and modernity. Tracks like GoldenEye successfully merge past and present, capturing both the nostalgia of Bond and the excitement of reinvention.

My Favourite Theme Song

Choosing a favourite Bond song is no easy task, but for me, Skyfall takes the crown. Adele masterfully captures the essence of Bond, making the song personal and deeply tied to the character’s journey. Winning an Academy Award cemented its legacy, and it set a trend for the franchise, leading to two more Oscar-winning themes. For its emotional depth, cinematic scale, and unforgettable delivery, Skyfall remains unparalleled.

Music

Deck the Halls with 25 December Tunes

| admin

Deck the Halls with 25 December Tunes

I love Christmas / winter music because it reminds me of my late Dad. He always enjoyed this festive season, especially the food, gifts, atmosphere, music, and family gatherings. He and my mum also liked to decorate our house and make the children happy. After she passed away, he tried to keep up the tradition. I cherished the moments when we were all together, even though our family became smaller over time.

That’s why I want to share some joy with Christmas / winter music. I made a Spotify playlist with a mix of less-known and familiar songs. I will explain why I chose each song and what it means to me. So relax, listen, and enjoy.

Classical

These are songs that are composed or inspired by classical music. Beautiful music that creates a sense of wonder and awe. These are some pieces that capture that winter and holiday season.

  • “Winter” from “The Four Seasons” by Antonio Vivaldi (1723)

Listening to this I can imagine myself outside, in wintry chilling winds with first bits of snowfalling. Back indoors sitting next to a cozy warm fireplace after experiencing the cold outdoors. Creating an enchanting story, a joy to listen to.

  • “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1892)

Song from the Nutcracker suite op.72a 1892, which is an adaption of the Nutcracker and the Mouse King 1816. Christmas Eve at the bottom of the Christmas tree, in a child’s imagination. Something magical about this score is plum fairy dancing as you listen. Makes me remember staring at the bottom of the tree as a kid and dreaming the same thing.

  • “The Snow is Dancing” by Claude Debussy (1908)

4th movement from Children’s Corner out of 6. Dedicated to Claude’s daughter, snowflakes in the air gracefully moving. With vivid and atmospheric sound, the song is about his love for his daughter. Seong-Jin-Cho version is below.

  • Winter Wonderland” by Felix Bernard and Richard B. Smith 1934

A classic that has been covered by various artists. Overall cheery song features a well-known catchy melody and rhyme. I decided to go with the original version without lyrics which was added at a later date.

For me, this song creates a snowy park with kids playing in the background, a couple building a snowman and a sleigh being pulled around.

  • “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson (1948)

I went with the original instrumental version, covered and adapted into various genres over the years. Iconic bit of music that has inspired so many Christmas-themed moments. Cheerful song that pulls along for the ride, and recreates the sleigh ride.

Childhood

The following two songs have a special place in my heart.

  • “Walking in the Air” by Howard Blake (1982)

Raymond Brigg’s picture book The Snowman 1978, was adapted to film in 1982. Carton’s musical adaptation of that picture book. A sequel was produced 30 years later, snowman and the Snowdog. Every Christmas I would watch it, with my parents until they both passed away. I still remember my nan coming around for Christmas and watching it with me. Watching it allows me to remember all the Christmas in the past and how much they meant to me. It is the most personal and important song on this list.

  • Grant Kirkhope – Freezeezy Peak (Banjo and Kazooie) 1996 alternviete version is here

I have fond memories of playing Banjo and Kazooie on the N64. I still own my original N64 given to me as a Christmas gift. Every time I listen to that game soundtrack I’m transported back in time playing that in the living room at Christmas. This track is for a winter-themed level, which was one of my favourites growing up. I have included the original and redone version from Grant himself off the Rejiggyed album.

Banjo and Kazooie Rejiggyed version

Modern Christmas standard

Collection of modern Christmas standard songs. Some well-known ones to more cult classics. Start with some new wave, synth pop main covered in pop goodness finishing up with rocky dessert.

  • “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses (1981)

This song is about surprises and how romantic moments can happen when you’re not looking. Rather charming song grounded in what the holiday season is in practice. How stressful life can be around the holiday but at the same time people can get enjoyment from small things. It was never a hit song on release but has become a bit of a cult classic over the years. Part of the new wave rock genre but influenced by 80s hip hop and rap.

  • Last Christmas by Wham 1986

Okay last song was pretty obscure, Wham mega hit however is not. I have memories of hearing this on the radio, in retail shops and everywhere. Classic 80s sound wrapped into a Christmas theme, a song about a broken heart.

  • Christmas in Hollis” by Run-DMC (1987)

Why not wrap up the year with this Christmas classic? A catchy song that just lifts the mood. My first CD was a RUN DMC cover, this song was on the back of my mind making the list.

  • “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey (1994)

Mariah Carey made one of the best love songs of all time which happens to be a Christmas song. Not many modern songs become Christmas standards. Mariah has refreshed the song over the years and invited artists to perform it with her. In many ways, she has become the pop queen of Christmas.

  • Christmas Lights by Coldplay 2010

A second song about breakups on Christmas Eve. Coldplay here provides a festive song, mixed with that well-known coldplay sound. One of the few modern Christmas songs I enjoy. Every time I listen to Coldplay I think about my mum so that’s why I added it.

  • “Snowman” by Sia (2017)

Much more downbeat low-tempo song, what I love about this song is the music video. Similar to the Waitresses song I have included. Would say it bit more hopeful and focused on being in love. Going to end up being part of the Christmas standard with time.

Folk

Something old reimaged

  • “Carol of the Bells” by Mykola Leontovych (1914)

This song is based on the Christmas carol, by Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych. It has been adapted with lyrics added at a later date. Popular carol and song in its own right these days, having been adapted and reused over the decades. I included this song to show my support for Ukraine and decided to share two different takes on the song.

Mannheim Steamroller version

Trans Siberian Orchestra version

  • “Winterbird” by Aurora (2016)

Writing this list I wanted to include some winter songs and found this. Aurora creates a dark, slow very minimal song. Lyrics are full of references to nature and the harsh reality of it brings back to reality. A really powerful song about how the environment around us influences emotions. I’m really glad I did some research and found this gem.

Rock

  • “Winterlude” by Bob Dylan (1970)

Bob Dylan is one of the greatest songwriters, to me Winterlude is a song about the simple joys and pleasures of winter. Winter gives us time for reflection before the year’s end. Something different once more.

  • “Imagine” by John Lenno (1971)

Okay, not technically a winter or Christmas song. Imagine is a minimal yet powerful song. Idealist piece of music that feels in tune with common themes around Christianity. Given the challenges the world faces, this song gives me hope during struggling times.

I was thinking of including This Is Christmas by John Lennon.

Cover section

  • Christmas at Ground Zero is a song by “Weird Al” Yankovic (1986)

It is a comedy Christmas song, dark humour and parody of Phil Spector-produced Christmas songs. Given the decline in the quality of Christmas songs over the years I feel like this earns a spot. This is also what happens when you force somebody who makes comedy songs to make a Christmas record.

I’m unable to embed the video.

  • Hazy shade of winter by The Bangles (1987)

This is a cover of a 1966 folk rock song,  by Simon and Garfunkel. released in 1966. Bangles covered the song for Less Than Zero. Gerard Way with Ray Toro covered the song in 2019 for the TV series adapted from his comic book series. Umbrella Academy, the same name as the comic book, Netflix production.

Bangales version

Gerrad way version

  • “A Mad Russian’s Christmas” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra (1996)

Trans-Siberian Orchestra is a well-known big Christmas and winter-themed band. Covering various bits of music, adapting them even creating new music inspired by classical songs. Picking a single song was going to be hard, Wizards of Winter is my default but I wanted to highlight a different song.  I picked a rock opera song instead, which from a full suite,

  • Oh Holy Night by Apocalyptica 1996

Apocalyptica is a Finnish symphonic metal band that consists of four cellists and a drummer.  This version is rather a traditional cover of the Christmas classic. Christmas carol was originally composed by Adolphe Adam in 1847. Showcase of talent mixed with a passion for music with this cover.

  • Jingle bells by James Lord Pierpont 1857

Jingle Bells started as a winter song about sleigh riding that slowly morphed into a Christmas song. Written by James Lord Pierpont in 1857. Guitar solo metal cover adds to the long list of covers over decades. Charlie Parra Del Riego brings new life to this classic song.

  • Merry Christmas Everyone” by Shakin’ Stevens 1985

This song reminds me of my dad, standing on the doorstep as Santa collecting for local charities drove past. He loved Christmas and acted like a child at that time of year full of joy.  A tradition now linked to the carnival around gunpowder plot celebrations.  I remember him dragging me to the front door even as an adult to wave back.

Obscure jazz

  • Winter wonderland harmony – Christmas star piano 2023

I found a song on Spotify called Christmas Star Piano, which is a cryptic name designed to keep them anonymous. YouTube is saying that James Smith is the composer so I don’t know. Released two albums on Spotify both are calming jazz music for winter. I wanted a Jazz song and found this obscure diamond. Spotify: Silent Night and Yuletide Harmony Christmas Music Delights.

  • Skating by Vince Guaraldi Trio (1965)

Less obscure this comes from A Charlie Brown Christmas which is a classic. Captures the mood of skating on a frozen lake and a beautiful piece of music history.

So season greetings and happy Christmas, hope you enjoyed the music.

Music

Music: Everyone is gay by A great big world

| admin

Music: Everyone is gay by A great big world

A great big world are American duo. Writing a massive hit that was performed on Glee. By total accident I found them by Amee Wilson known as the Queer chameleon. She does have another account. Finding her on Tik tok, before following her on everything else. Everybody is gay is rather cheerfully song. Recently the background for one of her videos, full version behind.

Genius link

Adorable gay rights anthem that catchy.  I can’t stop smiling listening to this song. As a bonus treat here another good gay song. Hayley Kiyoko lyrics can be found here.

Music

Music: David Bowie – Lazarus

| admin

Music: David Bowie – Lazarus

David Bowie is a British musical icon, with decades worth of music. Creating music for every decade, artists rarely change their style. Bowie, on the other hand, was a king of reinvention.  Artists rarely take risks but Bowie took risks. My parents shared David’s music, with me. And I remember pirating his music.

Lazarus was the last single released before David Bowie’s death in 2016. Therefore the lyrics took on a new meaning, Blackstar was meant to be a swan song Ablum. Tony Visconti producer for Blackstar has confirmed this. 

Every song has lyrics that revolve around death. Lazarus’s music video makes death the clear theme. 

 

Look up here, I’m in heaven
I’ve got scars that can’t be seen
I’ve got drama, can’t be stolen
Everybody knows me now

Look up here, man, I’m in danger
I’ve got nothing left to lose
I’m so high it makes my brain whirl
Dropped my cell phone down below
Ain’t that just like me?

By the time I got to New York
I was living like a king
There I’d used up all my money
I was looking for your ass
This way or no way
You know, I’ll be free
Just like that bluebird
Now, ain’t that just like me?
Oh, I’ll be free
Just like that bluebird
Oh, I’ll be free

Ain’t that just like me?

The first paragraph is Bowie talking about already being dead. Talking about his cancer, how famous he is. The second paragraph makes clear his cancer is winning, nice bit of humour to end it. The third paragraph talks about moving to new york, and the problems with being rich. One or two lines that I don’t understand the meaning of. He ends the song talking about being free, almost like he accepts dying and death. Therefore final line is his goodbye to his fans.

This is one of my favourite songs on the album. Every time I listen to David Bowie’s music he reminds me of my mum.  She was the one who recommended him. I have some great memories of singing songs with her, including David. Growing up I never used to sing that much.

David Bowie left behind a vast collection of music. Covering different genres across the ages. For me, Lazarus has helped me with grief.  Makes me remember even in the end we still have the desire to keep going.