Breaking History: Why Jews Wrote Your Favorite Christmas Songs
Hosted by The Free Press
Release Date: January 14, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Why Jews Wrote Your Favorite Christmas Songs (From the Honestly Archives)," Breaking History delves into the intriguing intersection of Jewish heritage and the creation of America's beloved Christmas music. Hosted by David Lehman and Eli Lake, the episode explores how Jewish immigrants significantly shaped the American Christmas songbook, transforming secular celebrations through their cultural and artistic contributions.

The Secular Nature of Christmas Music

David Lehman opens the discussion by highlighting the secular essence of popular Christmas songs. Contrary to traditional religious hymns, many favorite carols focus on winter, romance, and the festive spirit without referencing Christian religious elements.

"There's no mention of Nazareth, three wise men, Frankincense or myrrh. It's about a mood. It's warm and homey, but vaguely sexy, too."
— David Lehman [02:04]

Lehman emphasizes that these songs encapsulate the universal aspects of Christmas, making them accessible and cherished by a broad audience irrespective of religious affiliations.

Jewish Songwriters and the American Songbook

The episode underscores that many of the quintessential American Christmas songs were penned by Jewish composers. Lehman lists influential figures such as Sammy Cahn, Mel Tormé, Frank Loesser, Johnny Marks, and Irving Berlin, all of whom played pivotal roles in crafting the melodies that define Christmas music today.

"All everyone's favorite Christmas songs were written by Jews."
— David Lehman [06:02]

Historical Context: Jewish Immigration and Influences

Lehman provides a historical backdrop, explaining that Jewish immigrants fleeing Eastern Europe and Russia between 1880 and 1920 brought with them rich musical traditions and a drive to assimilate into American culture. This period coincided with the rise of the American songbook, allowing Jewish composers to infuse their heritage into mainstream music.

"Jewish migration in this period between 1880 and 1920... the process uncorked, a suppressed Jewish genius."
— David Lehman [15:15]

Linguistic and Musical Factors

Linguist John McWhorter contributes to the conversation by attributing the unique lyrical qualities of these songs to the Yiddish language's influence.

"Yiddish is a language that is very much about a certain almost self consciously crafted wit... sensitized a lot of those guys to writing that kind of lyric."
— John McWhorter [18:53]

Additionally, the incorporation of minor keys from Jewish prayer melodies and the innovative use of musical elements like the blue note enhanced the emotional depth of these Christmas songs.

Irving Berlin: Embodying the Jewish American Experience

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Irving Berlin, portrayed as the quintessential Jewish American composer whose work epitomizes the fusion of cultural heritage and American innovation. Berlin's iconic song "White Christmas" serves as a centerpiece for discussing how his personal experiences and background influenced his music.

"Born in Tolchin, Siberia... his earliest memory was of watching his home burn to the ground in a pogrom..."
— David Lehman [24:35]

Berlin's journey from a Russian immigrant to a musical legend illustrates the broader narrative of Jewish integration and cultural contribution to American society.

The Enduring Legacy of Jewish-Composed Christmas Songs

The episode traces the lasting impact of these compositions, noting how they have become integral to American cultural identity. Songs like "Let It Snow," "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," and "White Christmas" continue to resonate across generations, highlighting the timeless nature of the Jewish influence on Christmas music.

"The American Songbook is a precious heirloom, and so is American Christmas as we know it today."
— David Lehman [32:10]

Perspectives from Experts

Rabbi Ari Lamb, founder and president of Soulshop Studios and B'nai Zion Foundation, offers critical insights into the profound impact of Jewish composers on American Christmas traditions. He emphasizes the unprecedented nature of this cultural synthesis and its significance in fostering national pride and inclusivity.

"What an unbelievable, like, almost unimaginable achievement on the part of American culture... it's something that we as a nation should be very proud of."
— Rabbi Ari Lamb [34:22]

Conclusion: The Inclusivity of American Christmas

Lehman concludes by reflecting on the inclusive nature of American Christmas celebrations, shaped significantly by Jewish contributions. He contrasts the historical persecution faced by Jews in Europe during Christmas with the harmonious and celebratory atmosphere in the United States, underscoring the success of cultural integration and mutual respect.

"This holiday does not exclude me. I live in a country so welcoming of Jews... to build a new American Christmas whose songs are reinvented and perfected."
— David Lehman [35:23]

The episode wraps up by highlighting the enduring legacy of these collaborations, celebrating the rich tapestry of American cultural heritage that continues to embrace and innovate upon its diverse roots.

Notable Quotes

• David Lehman [02:04]: "There's no mention of Nazareth, three wise men, Frankincense or myrrh. It's about a mood. It's warm and homey, but vaguely sexy, too."

• David Lehman [06:02]: "All everyone's favorite Christmas songs were written by Jews."

• John McWhorter [18:53]: "Yiddish is a language that is very much about a certain almost self consciously crafted wit..."

• Rabbi Ari Lamb [34:22]: "What an unbelievable, like, almost unimaginable achievement on the part of American culture... it's something that we as a nation should be very proud of."

Final Thoughts

"Breaking History" thoughtfully examines the profound Jewish influence on American Christmas music, weaving historical context with cultural analysis to reveal how immigrant experiences and artistic ingenuity have shaped festive traditions. This episode serves as a testament to the power of cultural synthesis in creating enduring and beloved aspects of national identity.