James, born James Oppenheim, grew up in New Rochelle, New York, and studied clarinet at eight, later switching to saxophone. At age 15, his family moved to Los Angeles, where he began playing in a fusion band called Line One that was strong enough to open for Flora Purim and the Yellowjackets. He earned a degree in history from UCLA but became a full-time musician after graduation, doubling on keyboards.
In 1985, James went on the road as a keyboardist with Morris Day. He spent four years with Day and became an in-demand sideman, playing with Randy Crawford, Sheena Easton, the Isley Brothers, Bobby Caldwell, and many others before going solo.
James has received four Grammy nominations, RIAA gold-certified albums, and millions of sales. His unique meld of soul-jazz, R&B, funk, and pop have come to define the sound of 21st-century contemporary jazz. Albums such as 1999's Body Language, 2004's Pure, and 2015's Futuresoul have influenced an entire generation of artists.
In 2020, James released his album Solid, featuring 11 self-penned compositions, including the single "Be Here," with Kenny Lattimore providing vocals. The album debuted at #10 on the Billboard Current Pop Albums Chart.
James remains a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene, with his unique sound and influence on the genre solidifying his place in music history.
Sleigh Ride
Boney James Lyrics
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Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.
Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling "Yoo hoo"
Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.
Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, let's go,
Let's look at the show.
Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, it's grand
Just holding your hand.
We're gliding along with a song of a wintery fairy land.
Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy cozy are we,
We're snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be.
Let's take that road before us and sing a chorus or two
Come on it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.
The lyrics to Boney James's Sleigh Ride evoke the joy and warmth of wintertime adventure with loved ones. The sound of the sleigh bells jingling is a symbol of the holiday season, and they ring-ting tingle-ing capture the excitement and anticipation of the sled rides to come. The line "Come on, it's lovely weather" creates a sense of encouragement, inviting the listener to join in on the merriment. The verse "Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling 'Yoo hoo'" portrays an idyllic winter wonderland, where friends are beckoning to come together and enjoy the beauty of the snow.
The chorus is an invitation to adventure with a sense of excitement and momentum. The line "Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, let's go" prompts the listener to hop aboard and embark upon the journey through the winter landscape. As they move forward through the snow, they take in the sights and sounds of the season, appreciating the wintry beauty around them. The verse "Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy cozy are we, we're snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be" creates a sense of warmth and intimacy - snuggling up with a loved one in the vivid wintertime world.
The song as a whole is a call to embrace the wonder of the winter season and cherish the moments spent with loved ones. The theme of togetherness is prominent throughout, emphasizing the importance of companionship and shared experiences during a time of year that can often be isolating.
Line by Line Meaning
Just hear those sleigh bells jingle-ing, ring-ting tingle-ing, too,
The sound of the bells on the sleigh is heard with a clear ring that creates an echoing, cheerful tone.
Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.
The weather provides an opportunity to ride in a sleigh together, enjoying the moment and the scenery.
Outside, the snow is falling and friends are calling "Yoo hoo"
The listener can hear friends calling through the falling snow that creates a sense of excitement to go outside.
Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, let's go,
The sound made by the horses pulling the sleigh is enthusiastic and lively, urging the riders to push forward.
Let's look at the show.
As they move forward, the riders notice the beauty of their surroundings.
We're riding in a wonderland of snow.
The visual of the snow-covered landscape inspires pleasure and amazement for the riders.
Giddy yap, giddy yap, giddy yap, it's grand
The energy of the horses is thrilling and joyful for the riders.
Just holding your hand.
The closeness of the riders makes for an intimate and comforting experience.
We're gliding along with a song of a wintery fairy land.
The movement of the sleigh is smooth that harmonizes with the music of the winter wonderland.
Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy cozy are we,
The cold air reddens the cheeks, but the warmth of the companionship and comfort make the experience enjoyable.
We're snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be.
The closeness of the companions creates a sense of warmth like two birds huddled together for warmth.
Let's take the road before us and sing a chorus or two
The journey ahead is unknown, but the riders are excited to move forward with the company and celebrate with some songs.
Come on, it's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you.
The singer continues to encourage the listener to join them on this wonderful sleigh ride in this lovely weather in good company.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Leroy Anderson, Mitchell Parish
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind