Review Fix chats with singer/songwriter Gene-O of Classic Twist, who discusses his new track, “Just Like Christmas Before.”
About Classic Twist:
Even as he’s now recording under his freshly minted moniker and multi-genre fusion concept Classic Twist, there’s no mistaking the stunning, emotionally impactful vocals of famed R&B/jazz singer/songwriter Gene-O on his dynamic new holiday single “Just Like Christmas Before.”
The highly anticipated follow-up to Classic Twist’s uplifting call-to-action anthem “Time for Change” – which, true to the singer’s bold vision, incorporated elements of pop, R&B, country and rock – the song is a classic-styled soul ballad about an exciting, heart-pounding reunion with loved ones after a long time apart, a true celebration of love during troubled times, and a spirit-filled commitment to recapturing the joyful fun of past seasons when Christmas was at its most magical.
Over lush strings and dramatic piano chords, building to a gospel-flavored crescendo with Gene-O’s voice growing ever more powerful, “Just Like Christmas Before” reminds us of so many of the things that make the holidays special, especially when we’re sharing it with friends and family – picking a tree, hanging the lights, playing in the snow in the cold, blowing wind and watching “the stars putting on a show.”
The singer also includes beautiful, romantic and deeply spiritual lyrics: “I’ll be standing by the mistletoe waiting for the love that I have missed,” “Our love will keep us warm/Just like on Christmas/Like it was before” and “Never believed in miracles/But now I know/You’re sharing Christmas with me.”
Review Fix: How did this track come to be?
Gene-O: I was aiming for something that would stir-up some emotion and really touch the heart, a piece that was about more than just the excitement of unwrapping gifts. With the world in such chaos these past years, it made me think of all those separated from their loved ones—whether because of conflicts, pandemics, or even personal rifts that, in the big picture, seem so small. I felt a pull to create a song that wasn’t just another version of the same familiar tunes but one that would stir a different feeling, that would transport you to childhood memories and highlight the warmth of family, and the joy of unity that truly define the spirit of Christmas. This song is my way of taking us back to what’s truly important.
The idea originally began as a tribute to our military members who often spend holidays away from their families. But as I thought more about it, I realized that there are so many out there who can’t be with their loved ones. For those who are fortunate enough to be together, I hope this song inspires them to treasure every moment.
Review Fix: How is this version different from the previous one?
Gene-O: This version stands apart because I’ve laid down new vocals and had the mix handled by a Grammy award-winning engineer, a step up from when I mixed it myself initially. There’s a marked improvement in quality that I believe elevates the track to new heights. It’s this enhancement that makes me feel it’s got the legs to become a Christmas classic, one that resonates globally.
Review Fix: What do the holidays mean to you?
Gene-O: Family, love, unity, forgiveness. All of the things that the holidays are supposed to stand for. It makes me wish that the world could celebrate the holidays all year so that we all could feel this love, show this love, experience what unites us daily. I know that seems like a tall order, but I am all in for whatever it takes to get us out of our own way and bring us to that level of connection each day. It’s magical how the holidays can unite us, but I can’t help but ask myself why we limit these feelings to just a few months each year. It’s in us to do better… this season proves it.
Review Fix: What was it like to put something like this together?
Gene-O: Touching. It was even emotional for me just now thinking about all of the reasons I’ve mentioned before. I remember walking through a club where I was set to perform just before Christmas, and it struck me—the Christmas lights, the smiles, the way people would wave at strangers. People were greeting each other with ‘Happy Holidays,’ regardless of who they were or where they came from. That vision and spirit, that genuine warmth and connection among everyone, that’s what was on my mind as I was creating this track.
Review Fix: How is it different from other holiday songs?
Gene-O: This track stands out because it’s something fresh, something that hasn’t been done in a while. I mean, think about it—how many original Christmas songs can you name in recent years, except for Mariah Carey’s hit? That song caught on because it was so new and different, and that’s why it’s still being played all over the world. Sure, classics like ‘Jingle Bells,’ ‘White Christmas,’ and ‘Silent Night’ will always warm my heart, but I felt this deep urge for something new, something that brings warmth, love, and something people can really relate to. I am hoping, after the world gets a chance to really sit with the track, they will hear it in the same way I do. I hope it will help them to forgive and embrace again. I hope that it will help them to cherish the moments that have become so few and far between. I hope and pray this song can be my gift to the world, on so many levels.
Review Fix: What’s next?
Gene-O: More songs that I believe will help bring us together. More prayers that we will awaken to the change that is so desperately needed. More love being shown across the globe. More friends that I will meet. More tears as my songs hopefully resonate and bring people together, whether it’s around a cozy fireplace or a twinkling Christmas tree. This is how I send my happy holiday wishes, how I celebrate the New Year, and it’s how I share my love with the world—to friends old and new, and to all those I’ve yet to meet.
Review Fix: Anything else you’d like to add?
Gene-O: Yes, I’ve got to mention ‘Time for Change,’ my recent single that carries a message in the same vein. That and keep a look out for a few more tracks that will feature on my upcoming project set for release in 2024. I’m inviting everyone to please play this song wherever you can—by your Christmas tree, at your place of business, in your car. Let the message touch you, let the strings comfort you, and listen to the harmonies blend and merge in ways that remind you: now is the time we can choose to let the bright lights, the carols, the scent of Christmas, and the snowflakes move us even more. I suggest at some point during the celebrations, take a snapshot of the season’s beauty, a moment that means the most to you and whenever you feel that holiday spirit fading, just pull out your phone, look at that photo, and allow it to reignite the joy of unity, love, and family in your heart. Remember, it’s easy to be led by a smile rather than the frown that might sneak up on you now and then. ‘Just Like Christmas Before’ was written for you. All of you everywhere. Happy Holidays from me, Gene-o, & Classic Twist.
Review Fix: Where can people find out more?
Gene-O: Things are moving fast and we’re updating regularly so you can check us out on our website, theclassictwist.com, and on social media @classictwistmusic – we update our linktr.ee for new releases, etc. https://linktr.ee/classictwistmusic
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