African-American musicians Brook Benton and Clyde Otis collaborated on this bluesy ballad in 1959. Since then, the enduring piece has been recorded by iconic artists such as Etta James and Ray Charles. Verses present sentimental snapshots of Christmases past, and a crooner melody paints a warm holiday portrait. "Santa Claus is on his way, loads of joy on his sleigh, this time of the year, when Christmas is near."