6 International Christmas Songs for Your Driving Playlist
From contemporary tunes to Indie songs, the holiday season definitely has a diverse array of music to enjoy on commutes and road trips. But if you’re in the mood for something a bit different, here are some ethnic Christmas songs worth adding to your seasonal playlist.
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“Asalto Navideno” (Puerto Rico)
This upbeat party song is a staple of Puerto Rican Christmas. The title literally translates to “Christmas assault,” which refers to the Puerto Rican tradition of the Parranda, or “carolling.” The lyrics depict villagers going from house to house demanding food and drink. They tell the occupants of the house they’ll just keep singing and partying there until they open the door and let them inside.
“Betelehemu” (Nigeria)
Written by Grammy-nominated drummer Babatunde Olatunji, this Yoruba holiday song is a common selection on choral programs and is frequently peraccompanied by choreography and drumming. The lyrics focus on Betelehemu, or “Bethlehem,” as the place of Jesus’ birth as the singers express praise and thanks to the Creator.
“Raven Raskar Over Isen” (Sweden)
Traditionally performed as a circle dance around the Christmas tree, this Swedish tune is a familiar one for natives. The title translates to “the fox runs across the ice,” and each stanza includes different parts of the community from the painter to the tailor.
“We Wish You a Irie Christmas” (Jamaica)
Jacob Miller and Ray I get credit for this old-school Reggae tribute to Christmas. This is just one of the diverse, lighthearted carols that islanders enjoy hearing during the holidays.
“The Wexford Carol” (Ireland)
The English translation of this traditional Irish song is a popular one at holiday celebrations worldwide. Whatever language you prefer this song in, however, it’s a timelessly beautiful piece to add to your playlist.
“Es ist ein Ros entsprungen” (Germany)
Though the composer of this song’s melody and the author of the original German lyrics are unknown, “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” is another popular Christmas carol both in Deutschland and beyond. It first appeared in the Speyer Hymnal printed in Cologne in 1599. Theodore Baker translated it into English in 1894.
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