“Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto” – James Brown (King – 1968)
When J.B. dropped this on The One, there was no other song like it – a vivid and soulful request for Santa to take care of business with all the children in the hood. Composed by Mr. Brown along with saxophonist/arranger Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis (who sneaks in a tasty “Jingle Bells” inspired solo) and singer/songwriter Hank Ballard, this was an instantly memorable and welcome Christmas song of Soul.
