Rapper-singer DRAM flaunts his Christmas music chops on a three-song holiday single, ‘#1Happy Holiday.’ BigBabyMom is the sole featured guest.

Rapper-singer DRAM has continued to elevate his star throughout the course of 2017.  Since being nominated for a Grammy for “Broccoli,” he’s done exceptionally well, collaborating with numerous artists and making that paper.  On #1HappyHoliday, he does something a bit different – he drops three Christmas songs.  It may seem odd, but DRAM is a capable singer – he’s proven it over and over.

“Silver Bells” opens as eccentric as one would expect from DRAM.  He’s assisted by BigBabyMom, who delivers soulful, jazzy vocals.  Fittingly, the production is jazzy, intact with upright bass.  Vocally, he does lots of unique things with his voice.  Perhaps this makes for quirky, somewhat choppy take on the traditional carol, but it’s definitely unique if nothing more.

“The Christmas Song” follows, featuring more vocal experimentation from DRAM. Even so, for the much of the record he retains the sanctity of the melody. Notably, the depth of his voice carries over from “Silver Bells,” showcasing his skill.  His playful performance is hilarious. The single concludes with the lush, soulful “#1HappyHoliday,” the most modern record of the trio.  The falsetto is on-point, the backing vocals are lush, and the production work stellar.

Final Thoughts

So, how does a DRAM holiday effort, albeit it three tracks, stack up? It’s interesting if nothing else.  He deserves credit for taking some liberties, even if not every experiment in the end yields perfection.  What is compelling throughout are the vocals as well as his big personality, which shines on all three songs. #1HappyHoliday won’t suddenly become my go-to Christmas soundtrack, but it’s worth spinning.

Gem: “#1HappyHoliday”

DRAM • #1HappyHoliday – Single • EMPIRE / Atlantic • Release: 11.24.17

Photo Credit: EMPIRE / ATLANTIC