Deep Roots Magazine

Deep Roots Magazine

Roots Music and Meaningful Matters

 
 

 

A Christmas Story For All Seasons, And For The Ages

From its opening hosanna, 'I See the Light of the World' to its closing exaltation, 'Morning In Bethlehem,' DONNA ULISSE's song cycle All The Way to Bethlehem is not merely close to perfect, it's a work of art. An instant seaso...
by David McGee
 

 
 

The Murky Origins & Everlasting Life of ‘Jingle Bells’

In 1850 JAMES LORD PIERPONT, inspired by one-horse open-sleigh races in his home town, wrote a Thanksgiving ditty for his father's Sunday School class. Thus the humble origin of 'Jingle Bells.'
by David McGee
 

 

 

Big Brass Ones for Christmas

On its fifth holiday album, CHRISTMASTIME IS HERE, CANADIAN BRASS honors the music of animated Yule favorites and the arrangements of LUTHER HENDERSON and BRANDON RIDENOUR.
by David McGee
 

 
 

Inspired by Tolstoy and Pigs

Toronto-based animal rights activist ANITA KRAJNC is co-founder of Toronto Pig Save. They save pigs from slaughter, on pain of arrest. Their efforts are paying off. DUNCAN STRAUSS has the inside story.
by David McGee
 

 

 

‘Once in Royal David’s City’

The journey of 'Once in Royal David's City' from an 1848 text to global processional hymn.
by David McGee
 

 
 

BOB MAROVICH’S GOSPEL PICKS

Introducing REGINA VANDEREIJK, the greatest new voice of the year; RIP, The Nelons; Gospel Christmas singles 2024
by David McGee
 

 

 

Walt Disney, Surf Cartoon Pioneer

In 1937 WALT DISNEY produced the first animated surfing cartoon, HAWAIIAN HOLIDAY, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Donald and, in an influential star turn, GOOFY.
by David McGee
 

 
 

When Toby Did Christmas Well

TOBY KEITH is very much alive on the three Christmas albums in his hit-filled catalogue.
by David McGee