18 Rhythmic Christmas Songs About Africa for the Holiday Season

Christmas songs about Africa offer a vibrant and culturally rich perspective on the holiday season, blending traditional Christmas themes with the unique sounds and rhythms of the African continent. These songs celebrate the joy and spirit of Christmas through African musical traditions, from the energetic beats of highlife to the soulful harmonies of gospel choirs.

They capture the essence of an African Christmas, reflecting the continent’s diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes.

Whether through modern interpretations or traditional carols, these songs bring a fresh and dynamic energy to the holiday season, inviting listeners to experience Christmas in a new and exciting way.

18 Classic Christmas Songs About Africa That Will Make You Want to Travel This Holiday Season

These songs reflect various aspects of African culture, rhythms, and themes during the Christmas season, blending traditional holiday elements with African influences.

Here’s a list of 18 Christmas songs that are inspired by or related to Africa:

#1 “Mary’s Boy Child / Oh My Lord” by Boney M.

“Mary’s Boy Child / Oh My Lord” by Boney M. is a classic Christmas song that blends traditional holiday themes with infectious Caribbean and African rhythms. Released in 1978, the song became a global hit, celebrated for its catchy melody, joyous energy, and the unique combination of pop and gospel influences. The lyrics tell the story of the birth of Jesus, making it a traditional Christmas narrative, while the upbeat tempo and rhythmic percussion give it a distinct, celebratory feel that resonates across cultures.

Boney M.’s version of “Mary’s Boy Child” is particularly significant for its incorporation of elements from African music, including the use of steel drums and rhythmic beats that reflect the continent’s musical heritage. The song’s global appeal lies in its ability to merge the sacred with the festive, making it a perennial favorite during the holiday season. It’s a song that brings people together, transcending cultural boundaries with its universal message of joy and celebration.

#2 “African Noel” by African Children’s Choir

“African Noel” by the African Children’s Choir is a vibrant and uplifting Christmas song that showcases the beauty and diversity of African musical traditions. The song is a joyful expression of the holiday season, blending traditional African rhythms, call-and-response singing, and festive lyrics to create a unique and powerful rendition of the Christmas spirit. The African Children’s Choir, known for their rich harmonies and energetic performances, brings an authenticity and warmth to this song that resonates with audiences worldwide.

The song’s lyrics celebrate the birth of Jesus, but it’s the rhythmic drumming, handclaps, and exuberant voices of the choir that truly capture the essence of an African Christmas. “African Noel” is more than just a Christmas carol; it’s a celebration of life, community, and the power of music to bring people together. The song reflects the choir’s mission to inspire hope and joy through music, making it a cherished part of the Christmas season for many.

#3 “Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth” by David Bowie & Bing Crosby

“Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth” by David Bowie and Bing Crosby is a unique Christmas song that merges the traditional carol “Little Drummer Boy” with a newly written counterpoint, “Peace on Earth.” While not explicitly African in origin, the song’s arrangement includes subtle influences of African drumming and rhythms, particularly in the “Little Drummer Boy” segment. The collaboration between Bowie and Crosby, recorded in 1977, became an iconic Christmas duet, blending Bowie’s contemporary style with Crosby’s classic, crooning vocals.

The song’s fusion of different musical elements and its message of peace and unity reflect a global perspective that resonates with audiences across cultures. The African-inspired drumming adds a layer of depth to the song, symbolizing the universal appeal of the Christmas message. “Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth” has become a beloved Christmas classic, celebrated for its harmonious blend of old and new, and its subtle nod to the global nature of the holiday season.

#4 “The Blessing” by The Soweto Gospel Choir

“The Blessing” by The Soweto Gospel Choir is a powerful and spiritually uplifting Christmas song that exemplifies the rich musical heritage of South Africa. The Soweto Gospel Choir, known for their dynamic performances and deep harmonies, brings a profound sense of joy and reverence to this song. “The Blessing” combines traditional gospel music with African rhythms and melodies, creating a unique sound that is both celebratory and deeply moving.

The lyrics of “The Blessing” focus on themes of gratitude, hope, and the celebration of life, making it a perfect song for the Christmas season. The Soweto Gospel Choir’s performance is characterized by their powerful vocals and the use of traditional African instruments, which add a layer of cultural authenticity to the song. “The Blessing” resonates with listeners who appreciate the fusion of African musical traditions with the universal themes of Christmas, offering a truly inspiring and heartwarming experience.

#5 “Zululand Christmas” by Ladysmith Black Mambazo

“Zululand Christmas” by Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a festive and culturally rich Christmas song that brings the traditional sounds of South African Zulu music to the holiday season. Ladysmith Black Mambazo, famous for their intricate vocal harmonies and isicathamiya style, delivers a performance that is both joyous and deeply rooted in African musical heritage. The song celebrates Christmas in Zululand, incorporating traditional Zulu lyrics and rhythms that give the song a distinctive and authentic feel.

The harmonies and vocal arrangements in “Zululand Christmas” reflect the group’s mastery of their craft, creating a sound that is both soothing and uplifting. The song is a celebration of the Christmas spirit, viewed through the lens of Zulu culture, making it a unique addition to the repertoire of holiday music. “Zululand Christmas” resonates with listeners who appreciate the blending of cultural traditions and the universal joy of the holiday season, offering a beautiful and harmonious experience.

#6 “Betelehemu” by The Morehouse College Glee Club

“Betelehemu” by The Morehouse College Glee Club is a powerful and evocative Christmas song that originates from Nigeria. Sung in the Yoruba language, the song is a traditional African carol that tells the story of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The Morehouse College Glee Club’s rendition of “Betelehemu” is marked by its rich vocal harmonies, dynamic rhythms, and the use of traditional African percussion instruments, creating a performance that is both energetic and deeply spiritual.

The song’s lyrics, combined with the rhythmic drumming and call-and-response singing, capture the joy and reverence of the Christmas story from an African perspective. “Betelehemu” has become a popular piece in choral music, celebrated for its cultural significance and its ability to convey the universal message of Christmas in a uniquely African way. The Morehouse College Glee Club’s performance of “Betelehemu” resonates with listeners who appreciate the diversity and richness of African musical traditions, making it a cherished part of the holiday season.

#7 “African Christmas” by The Glory Gospel Singers

“African Christmas” by The Glory Gospel Singers is a joyful and uplifting song that brings the spirit of Christmas to life with vibrant African rhythms and powerful gospel vocals. The song blends traditional gospel elements with African musical influences, creating a unique sound that celebrates the birth of Jesus with energy and passion. The Glory Gospel Singers, known for their dynamic performances and soulful harmonies, deliver a rendition that is both spiritually uplifting and culturally rich.

The lyrics of “African Christmas” focus on the joy and celebration of the holiday season, highlighting the cultural significance of Christmas in Africa. The song’s infectious rhythm and enthusiastic delivery make it a perfect addition to any holiday playlist, especially for those who appreciate the fusion of gospel and African music. “African Christmas” resonates with listeners who enjoy the powerful expression of faith and joy through music, making it a standout piece in the Christmas music genre.

#8 “On This Christmas Day” by The Mahotella Queens

“On This Christmas Day” by The Mahotella Queens is a vibrant and culturally rich Christmas song that reflects the traditional sounds of South African music. The Mahotella Queens, famous for their mbaqanga style, deliver a lively performance that captures the spirit of Christmas in a uniquely African context. The song’s upbeat tempo, combined with the group’s harmonious vocals, creates a festive atmosphere that is both joyful and infectious.

The lyrics of “On This Christmas Day” celebrate the birth of Jesus and the joy of the holiday season, with a focus on community, family, and faith. The Mahotella Queens’ performance is characterized by their dynamic energy and the use of traditional African instruments, which add depth and authenticity to the song. “On This Christmas Day” resonates with listeners who appreciate the blending of African musical traditions with the universal themes of Christmas, offering a festive and culturally rich experience.

#9 “African Christmas Song” by E-Rock

“African Christmas Song” by E-Rock is a modern and energetic take on the Christmas theme, blending African beats with contemporary music styles to create a unique holiday track. E-Rock, an artist known for his fusion of Afrobeat and hip-hop, brings a fresh and innovative approach to Christmas music with this song. The lyrics reflect the joy and celebration of Christmas in Africa, emphasizing the importance of community, family, and cultural heritage.

The song’s catchy rhythm and modern production make it appealing to a wide audience, particularly those who enjoy contemporary African music. E-Rock’s “African Christmas Song” stands out for its ability to bridge traditional and modern musical elements, creating a track that is both festive and forward-looking. The song resonates with listeners who appreciate the diversity and evolution of African music, making it a dynamic addition to the Christmas music landscape.

#10 “Sing Noel” by African Children’s Choir

“Sing Noel” by the African Children’s Choir is a beautiful and uplifting Christmas song that showcases the pure, angelic voices of the choir. The song combines traditional African melodies with classic Christmas themes, creating a harmonious blend that celebrates the birth of Jesus with joy and reverence. The African Children’s Choir, known for their powerful performances and cultural authenticity, delivers a rendition that is both spiritually moving and musically captivating.

The lyrics of “Sing Noel” focus on the celebration of Christmas, with a message of hope, love, and peace. The choir’s performance is characterized by their clear, vibrant voices and the use of traditional African rhythms, which add a unique and festive element to the song. “Sing Noel” resonates with listeners who appreciate the beauty of choral music and the rich cultural heritage of Africa, making it a cherished part of the holiday season.

#11 “Carol of the Drum (African Little Drummer Boy)” by Ann Brown

“Carol of the Drum (African Little Drummer Boy)” by Ann Brown is a captivating reinterpretation of the classic Christmas song, “The Little Drummer Boy,” infused with African rhythms and melodies. Ann Brown’s version transforms the familiar tune into a vibrant and rhythmic celebration, incorporating traditional African instruments and vocal techniques. The song retains the original story of a young boy offering his simple gift to the newborn King, but with a distinctly African musical backdrop that adds a new layer of depth and cultural richness.

Brown’s performance is marked by its energetic and soulful delivery, bringing a fresh perspective to the beloved Christmas classic. The song’s fusion of African and Western musical elements creates a powerful and moving experience that resonates with listeners who appreciate the blending of different cultural traditions. “Carol of the Drum (African Little Drummer Boy)” is a testament to the universal appeal of the Christmas story, reimagined through the lens of African music.

#12 “Kumbaya” by Various Artists

“Kumbaya” is a spiritual song with deep roots in African-American culture, often associated with African origins and themes of unity, peace, and prayer. Though not exclusively a Christmas song, “Kumbaya” has been included in many holiday albums and performances due to its message of hope and togetherness, which aligns with the spirit of the Christmas season. The song’s simple, repetitive structure and heartfelt lyrics make it a powerful anthem of unity and solidarity, often sung in a call-and-response style.

Various artists have recorded “Kumbaya,” each bringing their own interpretation to the song’s universal message. The song’s connection to African spiritual traditions and its widespread appeal make it a meaningful addition to Christmas celebrations around the world. “Kumbaya” resonates with listeners who seek a deeper, more reflective experience during the holiday season, offering a message of peace and goodwill that transcends cultural boundaries.

#13 “Merry Christmas Africa” by Yvonne Chaka Chaka

“Merry Christmas Africa” by Yvonne Chaka Chaka is a festive and celebratory song that captures the joy and spirit of Christmas in Africa. Yvonne Chaka Chaka, a renowned South African singer known as the “Princess of Africa,” delivers a vibrant performance that combines her powerful voice with traditional African rhythms and melodies. The song’s lyrics express wishes for a joyful and peaceful Christmas across the continent, highlighting the importance of love, community, and cultural pride.

Chaka Chaka’s performance is characterized by its lively energy and the use of traditional African instruments, which add a unique and authentic feel to the song. “Merry Christmas Africa” resonates with listeners who appreciate the celebration of African culture and the universal themes of Christmas. The song is a joyful anthem that brings people together, celebrating the holiday season with a distinctly African flair.

#14 “Go Tell It on the Mountain” by Soweto Gospel Choir

“Go Tell It on the Mountain” by the Soweto Gospel Choir is a powerful and soulful rendition of the classic Christmas spiritual. The Soweto Gospel Choir, known for their dynamic performances and rich vocal harmonies, infuses the song with their signature South African gospel style. The song’s message of spreading the news of Jesus’s birth is delivered with energy and conviction, making it a compelling and uplifting addition to any Christmas celebration.

The choir’s performance is marked by its vibrant rhythms, call-and-response singing, and the use of traditional African instruments, which add depth and cultural authenticity to the song. “Go Tell It on the Mountain” resonates with listeners who appreciate the blend of African musical traditions with classic Christmas themes, offering a powerful and inspiring experience. The Soweto Gospel Choir’s rendition of this timeless spiritual is a testament to the enduring power of gospel music and its ability to bring people together in celebration.

#15 “African Christmas” by E.T. Mensah

“African Christmas” by E.T. Mensah is a festive song that combines the sounds of traditional African highlife music with the joy and celebration of Christmas. E.T. Mensah, often referred to as the “King of Highlife,” was a pioneer in blending African rhythms with Western musical elements, creating a genre that became popular across West Africa. In this Christmas song, Mensah uses lively brass sections, rhythmic percussion, and his smooth vocals to convey the excitement and warmth of the holiday season.

The song’s lyrics focus on the unique experience of celebrating Christmas in Africa, with references to local customs and the communal spirit that defines the holiday. “African Christmas” resonates with listeners who enjoy the vibrant and upbeat sounds of highlife music, offering a refreshing and culturally rich take on the Christmas season. E.T. Mensah’s contribution to African music is celebrated through this joyful track, which remains a favorite during the holidays.

#16 “O Holy Night (African Version)” by The African Children’s Choir

“O Holy Night (African Version)” by The African Children’s Choir is a beautiful and evocative rendition of the classic Christmas carol, infused with African rhythms and harmonies. The African Children’s Choir, known for their angelic voices and vibrant performances, brings a fresh perspective to this timeless song, blending the traditional melody with elements of African music. The arrangement features traditional drums, handclaps, and call-and-response singing, creating a powerful and uplifting atmosphere.

The song’s lyrics, which celebrate the birth of Jesus, are delivered with deep emotion and reverence by the choir, making this version particularly moving. “O Holy Night (African Version)” resonates with listeners who appreciate the blending of classic Christmas carols with cultural diversity, offering a rich and soulful experience. The African Children’s Choir’s rendition of this beloved carol is a testament to the universal appeal of the Christmas story, expressed through the lens of African musical traditions.

#17 “Christmas In Africa” by Michael J. Reed

“Christmas In Africa” by Michael J. Reed is a modern and heartfelt song that reflects on the beauty and wonder of celebrating Christmas on the African continent. Michael J. Reed, a musician known for his storytelling through music, captures the essence of an African Christmas with vivid lyrics and a warm, melodic composition. The song paints a picture of the unique ways in which Christmas is celebrated across Africa, highlighting the cultural diversity and rich traditions that make the holiday special.

The song’s gentle melody and Reed’s soothing vocals create a serene and reflective atmosphere, inviting listeners to experience the joy and peace of Christmas in Africa. “Christmas In Africa” resonates with those who appreciate songs that tell a story and convey a sense of place, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and colorful celebrations that take place during the holiday season. The song is a beautiful tribute to the spirit of Christmas as it is experienced in Africa, making it a meaningful addition to any holiday playlist.

#18 “Kilimanjaro” by Pascal Obispo

“Kilimanjaro” by Pascal Obispo is a song that, while not a traditional Christmas carol, includes references to Christmas in Africa, specifically in the context of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Pascal Obispo, a French singer-songwriter, uses the imagery of Kilimanjaro to explore themes of hope, faith, and renewal, which are often associated with the Christmas season. The song’s lyrics mention the Christmas season in passing, connecting the idea of a new beginning with the symbolic ascent of the mountain.

The music itself blends pop with world music influences, creating a sound that is both contemporary and evocative of the African landscape. “Kilimanjaro” resonates with listeners who enjoy songs that incorporate global perspectives and cultural references, offering a unique and thoughtful take on the holiday season. Pascal Obispo’s lyrical and musical approach in this song adds depth and meaning to the idea of Christmas in Africa, making it a standout track with a broader message of hope and inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Christmas songs about Africa unique?

Christmas songs about Africa are unique because they blend traditional holiday themes with rich African rhythms, melodies, and cultural elements, offering a fresh and diverse perspective on the holiday season. These songs often reflect the vibrant spirit, communal values, and natural beauty of the African continent.

Are there traditional African Christmas carols?

Yes, there are traditional African Christmas carols, such as “Betelehemu” from Nigeria, which are sung in African languages and incorporate indigenous rhythms and instruments. These carols celebrate the birth of Jesus while honoring African musical traditions.

How do African Christmas songs incorporate local cultural elements?

African Christmas songs often include local languages, traditional instruments like drums and handclaps, and rhythms that reflect the diverse musical heritage of the continent. These elements help convey the joy and spirit of Christmas through an authentic African lens.

Can African Christmas songs appeal to a global audience?

Yes, African Christmas songs can appeal to a global audience by offering a unique blend of familiar holiday themes with new and exciting musical interpretations. Their universal messages of joy, peace, and celebration resonate with listeners worldwide.