The Spirit of the Season: Demetria McKinney Sings 'The Christmas Song'

The holiday spirit flows through Demetria McKinney’s voice. The actress and singer dons an elegant white dress in a new reason-for-the-season music video, spreading yuletide cheer with her rendition of the classic holiday favorite, “The Christmas Song.” Her motivation to take on the classic comes from a personal place.

“I recorded ‘The Christmas Song’ because that song in particular brings the mood of Christmas to the forefront for me,” McKinney told SoulTrain.com.

demetria-mckinneyThe well-known seasonal ballad was written in 1945 by Bob Wells and Mel Torme, then brought to life by Nat King Cole. Originally recorded by jazz group The Nat King Cole Trio, it was replaced by the stripped down Cole-only version generations of listeners have grown up knowing and loving. Its lyrics are famous for depicting the type of cozy holiday experience people cherish. “It’s like you can envision your family, the smell of the tree, the warmth of the Chestnuts roasting,” McKinney said. “It’s a beautiful vision.

“The miraculous birth [of Jesus Christ] is the reason for the season,” she continued. “The joy this song brings as it paints its picture, highlights our blessings. That’s why I love it and had to do it!”

A critically-adored star of live and recorded scripted entertainment, McKinney is best known for her portrayal of Janine Payne on award-winning TBS sitcom, Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. A native of Fort Walton Beach, FL, she’s also appeared on Demetria McKinney_The Christmas SongThe Real House Wives of Atlanta, Drop Dead Diva, Devious Maids, and as Rickey Smiley’s ex-wife Monic on TV One’s The Rickey Smiley Show.

McKinney is a talented singer on stage and record. With Dreamgirls, I Dream, and several Tyler Perry stage productions under her belt, the R&B artist side of McKinney’s career has found her sharing songs with Musiq Soulchild and Anthony David, and keeping it “100” on her own. “The Christmas Song” is another notch in her belt, and a gift for all to enjoy.

“I’m happy with how it came out,” McKinney mused. “It’s me giving me, and I hope everyone receives the gift with the love with which it was made! Merry Christmas!”

For more on Demetria McKinney, visit her website. Follow her on Twitter @demimckinney and Instagram @demetria4real.

Interview by: Mr. Joe Walker