For the jazz aficionado…
Samara Joy — A Joyful Holiday ($14, Walmart)
A jazzy delight fit for a festive moment, two-time Grammy winner Samara Joy’s new EP, A Joyful Holiday, is sure to get anyone in the holiday spirit. The six-song collection features classics like “O Holy Night,” “Warm in December,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” Stevie Wonder’s “Twinkle Twinkle Little Me” and a studio and live version of “The Christmas Song.”
For the gospel lover…
Gospel Music Gift, Mug for Girl Who Loves Gospel Music ($19, Etsy)
Bless the spiritual sisters in your circle with this minimalist mug that reads “just a girl who loves gospel music.” This simple saying encapsulates what gospel music means to many of us. Not only does it serve as daily motivation, but it soothes the mind, body and soul while uplifting the spirit — the perfect concoction for self-care.
For the culture vulture…
Shine Bright: A Very Personal History of Black Women in Pop by Danyel Smith ($15, Amazon)
We can all use a good read. And those who appreciate music history will certainly love this one. Written by Danyel Smith, award-winning journalist and former editor-and-chief of VIBE — not to mention the first woman to ever lead a national music magazine — Shine Bright explores the rich history of Black women’s music as the backbone of American pop. From Mahalia Jackson to Aretha Franklin to Jody Watley, Smith puts the spotlight on our mighty sisters in music, bringing their stories and significant contributions to the forefront.
For the art enthusiast…
D.D. Ike Art Gallery Mood Music II ($20 - $363, blackartdepot.com)
This vibrant masterpiece by Nigerian-born artist D.D. Ike is a “mood” indeed. Depicting three Black women playing the conga, guitar and tambourine before an audience, this splendid work of art is not only captivating, but pleasantly mysterious. It’s also a great gift idea for music lovers looking to adorn their walls with more music-themed artwork. Available on paper or canvas in a variety of sizes.
For the fashionista…
Simone I. Smith Rock The Bells Turntable Pendant ($100, simoneismith.com)
Consider gifting a music aficionado with this blinged-out turntable pendant necklace — or another music-centric style from Simone I. Smith’s Rock The Bells collection. Co-founded by Simone I. Smith, entrepreneur, philanthropist and wife of hip-hop legend, LL COOL J, the brand was born after she was diagnosed with stage 3 bone cancer and noticed that her lollipop tattoo was altered following surgery, which inspired her signature lollipop pendant. A portion of all proceeds go toward the fight against cancer.
This special issue of Sisters From AARP is devoted to music and how it shapes — and strengthens — our memories. For more on this topic from AARP, including videos, events and memory games, visit aarp.org/musicandmemory
