REVIEW: Susannah B — “Christmas Time Is Here” (SINGLE)
Susannah B, a multifaceted artist with an impressive career spanning music, theater, and film, brings her signature style to the timeless holiday classic “Christmas Time Is Here.” Known for her ability to blend jazz, pop, and groove-driven rhythms, she has built a reputation as an artist unafraid to experiment and make each project deeply personal. Her latest reinterpretation of this Vince Guaraldi composition continues that tradition, offering listeners a fresh and elegant take on a song that has been cherished for nearly six decades.
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A native New Yorker raised in Manhattan, Susannah B’s creative roots run deep. As the daughter of celebrated Broadway composer/lyricist Carol Hall, best known for The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Susannah was immersed in music and storytelling from an early age. Her career began on off-Broadway stages and in the vibrant club scene of New York City, where her soothing, sultry voice captivated audiences. After relocating to Los Angeles, she brought her unique style to iconic venues such as the Catalina Jazz Club and Hotel Cafe, further solidifying her place as a versatile and dynamic performer.
Susannah’s work has always reflected her multidimensional artistry. From her early albums, Happy Today and Let’s Pretend, to her recent releases, she has consistently woven her life experiences into her music. Her newest project, POV, reinvents some of her favorite original songs with an edgy pop/rock twist, while her duet with India Carney in the short film Daddy’s Eyes showcased her ability to combine music and storytelling in powerful ways. Her diverse career and deeply personal connection to her craft make her interpretation of “Christmas Time Is Here” particularly compelling.
While the original “Christmas Time Is Here” — introduced in the 1965 TV special A Charlie Brown Christmas — is most often remembered for its children’s choir and Guaraldi’s jazzy piano, Susannah’s version reimagines the piece as a contemplative, soulful ballad. She retains the piano as the foundation of her arrangement, keeping the song rooted in its jazz origins, but adds a soft electric guitar that introduces a fresh, contemporary flavor. The gentle guitar lines subtly weave through the track, creating a warm and modern texture that complements her smooth, emotive vocals.
Susannah’s vocal delivery is nothing short of stunning. With her rich tone and nuanced phrasing, she brings a maturity and emotional depth to the song, allowing the lyrics to take on new resonance. She imbues the lyrics with both hope and a touch of melancholy. Her voice, paired with the delicate interplay of piano and guitar, creates a mood that is introspective yet comforting — a perfect reflection of the season’s complex emotions.
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The inclusion of the electric guitar in this version is a particularly inspired choice. While many covers of “Christmas Time Is Here” stay faithful to the original arrangement, Susannah’s decision to incorporate this instrument adds a dimension the song has not seen before. The understated guitar work enhances the wistful atmosphere without overshadowing the simplicity that makes the song so special. This thoughtful addition demonstrates Susannah’s knack for breathing new life into classics while honoring their essence.
Susannah’s lifelong connection to A Charlie Brown Christmas and her broader artistic vision make this rendition feel like more than just a cover — it’s a deeply personal interpretation of a piece she holds dear. Her love for the Peanuts special and its music is palpable, and one can’t help but wonder how she might approach other songs from the soundtrack. A full-length Charlie Brown Christmas cover album from Susannah B would undoubtedly offer fresh perspectives on the beloved Vince Guaraldi score, blending nostalgia with her unique artistry.
With her take on “Christmas Time Is Here,” Susannah B proves once again that she is an artist capable of elevating any piece she touches. Her thoughtful arrangement, emotionally rich performance, and innovative instrumentation breathe new life into a holiday classic, making it feel both timeless and refreshingly modern. This rendition is not just a celebration of the season — it’s a testament to Susannah’s ability to connect deeply with her audience and remind us all of the enduring power of music.
Colin Jordan
