Say She She have worked extraordinarily hard in 2024 to consolidate their breakthrough success of 2023. They have taken their soulful harmonies on tour several times, honing a legendary live act. Throughout the year they have also given us the stories of their influences with well-curated series of classic songs, road tested live and then released with studio versions. With no more shows on the cards for the year they have given us their first seasonal song, a cover of “Purple Snowflakes” by Marvin Gaye.
Although conceived and recorded in the ’60s the song was never released during Gaye’s lifetime, as the theme and music were adapted to become “Pretty Little Baby,” which Motown must have thought would have year-round appeal. The original did eventually appear on a Motown Christmas compilation in 1993, since which time it has become like a Shibboleth of Soul, a song that those with deep love and appreciation for the art form use to signify their appreciation for the season and the music. There are great versions by Laura Mvula, Gregory Porter and John Legend. “Pretty Little Baby,” for whatever reason, has attracted less cover attention over the years.
Say She She could be forgiven for sounding jaded and tired after a year of constant activity on the road and publicity trail. Of course they may have, in the classic style, recorded their winter holiday classic in June. Nevertheless their reading is upbeat, warmly enveloped in an upbeat Major Key, with their harmonies as tight and uplifting as ever. The snowflakes may be cold but the atmosphere is warm. It is dark but comfortable, and everyone is cuddled up with someone they love, or alone if that is what they wish. A fitting reward for a busy year.
