Ella Reid‘s new single, That’s a Holiday, effortlessly encapsulates the magic and complexity of the holiday season, weaving a rich tapestry of emotions that speak to the heart. This song not only solidifies Ella’s place as an artist of deep emotional resonance but also brings a fresh, soulful twist to holiday music that feels both timeless and profoundly personal.
Opening with a soft, gentle melody, the song embraces listeners with the warmth of soft rock energy, an elegant contrast to the more commercialized, upbeat holiday tunes that tend to dominate the season. Ella’s soulful vocal delivery is the beating heart of That’s a Holiday, where each note drips with sincerity. Her voice, which carries a comforting yet powerful timbre, fills the space with a tender emotional quotient that enhances the track’s nostalgic and poignant themes. There’s an undeniable depth to her performance, a subtle soulfulness that connects with the listener on a personal level, making each word feel like a shared secret or a familiar embrace.
The song’s lyrics are nothing short of poetic. Ella Reid’s mastery of visual language brings the imagery of the holidays to life in a way that resonates with universal warmth. Descriptions of gathering with friends, reflecting on the memories of loved ones, and the comfort of familiar places are rendered in a way that feels both intimate and cinematic. The inclusion of “singing Joy To The World” is particularly moving, a gesture that not only aligns with the season but also serves as a reminder of the collective need for hope and joy, especially in times of hardship. The feeling of community and shared humanity is palpable, a message we all can hold close during the holiday season.
What stands out most is the duality that That’s a Holiday embraces: the simultaneous celebration of togetherness and the aching sense of loss that often accompanies the holiday season. Ella captures the longing many of us feel for those who are no longer with us, yet the song never drifts into sadness. Instead, there is a comforting sweetness in the way it encourages us to embrace the loved ones still present in our lives, making it a bittersweet but beautiful tribute to both love and loss.
Musically, the track strikes a perfect balance between polish and authenticity. While the production is undoubtedly clean and well-crafted, it retains a raw, organic feel that aligns with Ella’s musical ethos. This ensures that That’s a Holiday never feels overproduced or inauthentic, but instead maintains the warmth and sincerity that has defined her past work. Fans of Nora Jones, Brandi Carlile, and other emotionally-charged, soulful singer-songwriters will undoubtedly find Ella’s new single to be a perfect addition to their holiday playlists.
Ultimately, That’s a Holiday is a reflection on the essence of the season. It’s about the love we give, the love we remember, and the quiet moments of connection that make the holidays truly special. With its high emotional quotient, poetic lyrics, and tender delivery, this track is not just a gift for the ears but also a heartfelt offering that will resonate deeply with anyone who’s experienced the joy, warmth, and bittersweet nostalgia of the holiday season. Perfect for a Hollywood Christmas romance, That’s a Holiday is sure to become a holiday classic in the making.
We have added the song to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we immerse ourselves in the accompanying music video for the track, and stream Ella Reid’s wider discography, including Dragonfly, and Lemon & Lime!