The doo wop sound, inspired by a blend of rock-and-roll, swing and rhythm-and-blues, is deeply rooted in American music history. This nostalgic genre, live and in-person, paired with the magic of Christmastime is a match made in a winter wonderland.

Two groups who keep these musical traditions alive will appear as part of our holiday lineup this season: Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox — Magic, Moonlight and Mistletoe Tour on Nov. 21 and The Doo Wop Project presents A Doo Wop Christmas on Dec. 18 at the Capitol Theatre. Both groups will perform a range of classic and contemporary holiday tunes, incorporating the styles that put American popular music on the map.

Postmodern Jukebox, known for its retro interpretations of modern pop hits in the style of genres like jazz, swing and doo wop, visited the Capitol Theatre last season. This time, their signature sound will reimagine Christmas classics, old and new, with the typical high-energy dance, jazzy vocals and horn-rich numbers they’re known for.

“There is something about the classic sounds of the past — 1940s swing, 1950s doo wop — that gives us that same warm sense of nostalgia that we get at Christmastime,” said Scott Bradlee, founder of Postmodern Jukebox. “So this [tour] is the perfect opportunity to get your family and friends together in celebration.”

The Doo Wop Project — who last visited Flint in 2022 at Whiting Auditorium — carries with them a vintage sound all their own. Comprised of performers who all performed as cast members in the Broadway hit, Jersey Boys — a doo wop musical about Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons — their 2025 stop at the Capitol Theatre will be infused with Broadway showmanship, and, of course, lots of Christmas cheer.

Just what is it about this vintage sound that’s reminiscent of cozy nights by the fire, admiring the Christmas tree?

“It reminds people of classic holiday music, old records and timeless traditions. There’s also a deep Americana feel that makes it feel both familiar and festive,” said Sawyer Auger, program manager at the Capitol Theatre.

Music and the arts provide a gathering place for the community humans seek, especially during the holidays.

“The arts are a special reminder that the old is forever new. Our favorite stories, sounds and memories can be told over and over again in new and interesting ways,” said Rodney Lontine, FIM president and CEO. “That’s a feeling we especially crave at the holidays, when we’re reminiscing with family while creating new memories together.”
“I think the holiday season is about finding connections, and these groups pair the old with the new, creating a fun and comfortable space for people of all eras to connect,” Lontine said.

Lontine explained that FIM intentionally programmed a diverse holiday lineup across its venues, recognizing that not everyone celebrates in the same way (or at all).

“But for those who do celebrate the spirit of the season, we hope they find something here that links them to their own holiday customs, introduces new traditions and connects them to one another.”