The Heartfelt Joy of Christmas: Stevie Wonder’s “What Christmas Means to Me”
Released in 1966 as part of Stevie Wonder’s Someday at Christmas album, “What Christmas Means to Me” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades. This joyful, upbeat track has a special place in the world of holiday music, not just for its infectious energy but for its deep sense of warmth, love, and the spirit of togetherness. When the song first debuted, it didn’t immediately rocket up the charts, but over the years, it has become a beloved standard, regularly appearing in holiday playlists and enduring in Christmas music traditions.
There’s something about the way Stevie Wonder’s voice fills every note with sheer exuberance. His childlike wonder, wrapped in soul and rhythm, immediately transports you to a cozy home on a winter night, filled with the sounds of laughter and celebration. “What Christmas Means to Me” radiates an optimism and festive spirit that’s hard to find anywhere else in holiday music. Wonder’s joyful declaration of what the holiday means—peace, love, and joy—is a reminder that, at its core, Christmas is about unity and cherishing the small, meaningful moments.
The song itself is rich in soulful melodies, with Wonder’s piano and the vibrant horn section creating a delightful backdrop to the holiday cheer. The lyrics are simple yet powerful—filled with the joy of family gatherings, the warmth of shared love, and the beauty of giving. Lines like “I hear bells a-ringin’ / Santa’s on his way”, instantly bring to mind nostalgic images of Christmases long past, when families came together to celebrate with a heart full of anticipation and gratitude.
What makes “What Christmas Means to Me” stand out from other Christmas songs is the way it blends the spirit of soul and R&B with traditional holiday themes. Stevie Wonder, known for his musical innovation, brought a fresh energy to Christmas music at a time when most holiday tunes followed conventional patterns. His influence can be felt in the song’s upbeat tempo, layered harmonies, and that iconic, unforgettable groove. In many ways, it’s a reflection of the cultural moment—1960s America was a time of change, and Wonder’s music was at the forefront of that movement.
The meaning behind the song is universal. It captures the essence of what many of us hold dear about the Christmas season. Wonder’s lyrics talk about the excitement of the holidays, but they also touch on the deeper emotions—love, togetherness, and joy. As we listen to it year after year, the message of “What Christmas Means to Me” becomes ever more relevant, reminding us that, no matter how much time passes, the true meaning of Christmas remains unchanged.
For the older generations, this song brings with it a sense of nostalgia—a feeling of Christmases gone by, when the world seemed a little simpler and the holiday season was a time to gather, to share, and to celebrate life with loved ones. Stevie Wonder’s song may have started as just another track on an album, but over the years, it has transformed into something much more. It’s become a tradition, a reminder of the universal love and joy that is meant to define the holidays. It’s a song that stirs the heart and keeps the spirit of Christmas alive, generation after generation.