Listening Room: Fantasia wows us with "Christmas After Midnight"

We fell in love with her years ago when she was the winner of American Idol, and she has stayed a favorite ever since. And now, Grammy-Award winning and platinum-selling artist Fantasia has released her first-ever holiday album, Christmas After Midnight, via Concord Records.  The 12-track album was produced by Ron Fair (Christina Aguilera, The Black-Eyed Peas) and includes some of Fantasia's favorite holiday songs including "This Christmas," "Silent Night," "Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto," "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" and "Baby, It's Cold Outside," featuring vocals from the critically acclaimed singer, songwriter and producer CeeLo Green. 

"I'm so excited for my first Christmas album," says Fantasia.  "My Grandmother Addie Collins' birthday was on Christmas Day. I will never forget how she would put up the prettiest Christmas trees and lights. But more importantly, I'll never forget the impact she had on me and everyone else around her this time of year. She was a loving woman who helped all her grandchildren understand the true meaning of the holiday, its impact on our spirituality and character as well as the importance of recognizing the value of family and significant relationships.  This album is dedicated to her.  So as she would always say, 'Keep giving the Gift of Giving!'"

Recorded live in Los Angeles' iconic Capitol Studios and Nashville's famed Blackbird Studios, Christmas After Midnight is an inspiring and merry blend of rock, soul, jazz, funk and blues that will send holiday spirits soaring.  

We are excited to feature Christmas After Midnight as our newest SoulTracks Listening Room. And there is no better way to get ready for the holiday season than with with instant classic from Fantasia!