Stevie Wonder, Silver Bells | Throwback Vibez

In the 205^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Silver Bells” by Stevie Wonder.

[nx_dropcap]T[/nx_dropcap]he vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils 🦴! All genres of music are welcome. In the 205^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Silver Bells” performed by Stevie Wonder.  

[nx_pullquote]“City sidewalks / Busy sidewalks / Dressed in holiday style / In the air, there’s a feeling of Christmas.”[/nx_pullquote] Indeed, Stevie Wonder (b. 1950)! With the beloved carol, “Silver Bells”, how can you not feel the Christmas spirit? “Silver Bells” is the second track from Wonder’s 1967 Christmas album, Someday At Christmas.  Notably, this recording predates the Academy and Grammy award-winning musician’s dominant run in the 1970s.  Ray Evans (1915 – 2007) and Jay Livingston (1915 – 2001) wrote the oft-recorded and performed “Silver Bells.” 

“Hear the snow crunch
See the kids bunch
This is Santa’s big scene
And above all this bustle you hear.” 

“Silver Bells” begins radiantly with bells. It features warm musical accompaniment, including the lush strings of an orchestra. Stevie Wonder delivers a gorgeous, pure vocal performance. He sings just right, never forcing things or overdoing it. One of the selling points of his rendition of “Silver Bells” is the fact that he maintains the sanctity of the melody of this beloved classic. By the end, he tweaks the melody slightly (non troppo), but it feels appropriate. Beyond his commanding, nuanced lead, Wonder is supported by warm, choral background vocals during the unforgettable refrain (“Silver bells (Silver Bells) / Silver Bells (Silver Bells) / It’s Christmas time in the city”).  An enjoyable, well-rounded performance from Stevie, “Silver Bells” doesn’t require extensive analysis.  The music speaks volumes, particularly ushering in the holiday cheer.  Stevie Wonder, you ate and left no crumbs!