Throwback Thursday 12/23 – Feliz Navidad from Jose Feliciano

This might be a cheat code but it’s almost Christmas so we’re going with it. This week’s Throwback Thursday post is all about “Feliz Navidad” and Jose Feliciano. We’ll get you into Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Jose Feliciano is one of the most important Latin artists in American music history. Born in Lares, Puerto Rico in September 1945, Jose Feliciano grew up the 4th of 11 children. Born blind due to glaucoma, Feliciano discovered his musical talent at a very young age. By the age of 7, he had taught himself how to play the accordion. By 9 his father bought him his first guitar. Citing 1950s rock and roll as well as soul music from artists like Ray Charles as his inspiration, Feliciano began his musical career in small coffee shops. His career boomed through the 1960s with major crossover hits along the way. However, his 1968 Latin jazz rendition of the Star Spangled Banner proved controversial and set his career back. Feliciano has remained a major figure in music since his debut and his influence continues to this day.

This week’s song is one we’ve all heard before. It’s “Feliz Navidad”. Written and recorded in 1970 by Jose Feliciano, this song is one of the highest selling Christmas songs in history. Feliciano stated that this song was written when he was feeling homesick living in New York. I don’t know how much more I can say about this song that hasn’t already been said. I’m pretty sure everyone on the planet has heard this before. It’s even played in schools to teach kids Spanish.

I hope that you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year as well. From all of us here, stay safe and healthy this year!

From 1970, “Feliz Navidad”.

For last week’s post, click here.