I love Christmas music. In fact, it’s always been my favorite thing about the holiday season. From the choral arrangements to the familiar tunes, each song has a story. One that consistently brings me back to a place filled with peace. A place where things are good.
As a child, I remember waking up Christmas morning to the sounds of the Temptations singing “Silent Night” or Mariah Carey belting “Joy to the World” and “O’ Holy Night.”
Then in school, I would load onto a bus with other choir members and spend days performing in local malls, the lobbies of corporate office buildings, and even the Biltmore House. We’d pass the time by singing “The First Noel,” “Carol of the Bells,” or any other song we could think of at the moment…in front of anyone who would listen. And when performance time came, we’d pay homage to the “Messiah,” singing “And the Glory of the Lord” and “Hallelujah!”
I felt joy. I felt joy within, knowing what each song meant and what Christmas meant to me. I let the music take me to a place where I could celebrate the goodness in the world, and its savior.
And now, I’m creating more musical memories with my husband and my new extended family.
That’s because my father in-law just finished a Christmas jazz album. It’s called “The Gift” by JAZZSMITH featuring Benjamin Hampton. I’ve been listening to the album, remembering old favorites, and appreciating the message he brings through new songs he’s written and arranged himself. You should check it out!
Afterall, there’s nothing like Christmas music to get you in the holiday spirit.
Here are my top five favorites:
5. Mary, Did You Know?
4. O Come, All Ye Faithful
3. What Child Is This?
2. Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song)
1. O Holy Night
So…what are your favorite Christmas songs?
