‘Tis the Season to be Jolly, Fa la la la la la laa!’ Jolly without Christmas Carols? Without Oh Holy Night? Oh, no way! I have sung this carol every Christmas for as long as I can remember. I have always been curious about this carol. Now lets look into it’s lyrics along with how it was written and composed in this blog.
Before get into detail, let me ask you something! Which one is your favorite? O Holy Night version from Celine Dion or Maria Carey! Tough nut to crack. Add your comments about, Who sings the best version.
O Holy Night Lyrics
This following lyrics is based on the traditional version.
The Story Behind O Holy Night
This is a beloved Christmas carol that everyone likes to sing or play and enjoy the birth of Jesus Christ. The origin is both fascinating and kind of complex since it goes through different cultures.
Have Ye Heard?
O Holy Night lyrics were originally written in French!
This carol’s history can be traced back to France somewhere around 1847. It was titled, ‘Minuit, Chretiens’ which translated to ‘Midnight, Christians’. Original version of this carol was written by Placide Cappeau De Roquemaure. He was a wine merchant and an amateur poet.
The story behind how ‘Minuit Chretiens’ came into light is quite interesting. It was said that the poet was approached by a local parish priest to write a Christmas poem for his service. So he began writing about the night Christ was born depicting to be the time of hope and redemption. Adolphe Adam, an opera composer composed ‘Minuit Chretiens’ and was first performed in church service on Christmas Eve. It then quickly gained popularity.
Here is a Sheet Music of the O Holy Night Carol
Why This Christmas Carol So Popular?
The original version of this song ‘Minuit Chretiens’ became popular across the United States. Well, then John Sullivan Dwight wrote the english version. O Holy Night’ origin from France to America and became a carol of Hope and liberation. That’s how we grew up listening to this carol in the latter years.
It is quite a journey since Minuit Chretiens lyrics came known to be O Holy Night lyrics. This carol’ popularity grew worldwide over the years, especially during the civil war era. The lyrics speak about liberation and redemption. It reads,
“ A Thrill of Hope, the Weary World Rejoices! For Yonder Breaks, a New and Glorious Morn.”
Overall, one can say that the lyrics convey peace and goodwill. It also reflects upon the arrival of our ‘Dear Savior’ is a call for adoration and celebration.
Who Sings the Best Version of This Carol?
Now, determining the best version of O holy night is, well, highly subjective! Not gonna lie, so many artists have sung it in their unique styles each resonating differently with listeners. These are the few versions that are favorite to most of us.
‘A version from Bing Crosby came out in 1946 with heartfelt emotions in his smooth voice and a nostalgic feel.
This Christmas carol version of Mariah Carey is popularly known for its modern touch and remarkable vocal runs. It was released in 1994.
Josh Groban’ version features his rich, resonating, voice with dramatic interpretations. It is a mix of popular and classical genres and was released in 2002
Celine Dion’s version of O Holy Night is famous for her powerful vocals yet elegant delivery. Listeners say that her version captures the grandeur and solemnity of the carol. It was released in 2004.
Like wise Carrie Underwood’ version is well known for her deeply expressive interpretation. Her singing is deeply moving and dramatic.
Closing Thougths!
This carol reflects the joy and celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Not just joy, it also talks about hope and redemption of mankind after his birth. The lyrics highlight the spiritual significance and the essence of Christmas as a time to forgive and forget and to give thanks for everything during the joyous celebration.
FAQs
What is the ‘O Holy Night’ origin?
This carol originated from France. It was first written in French, “‘Minuit, Chretiens”
Who wrote the O Holy Night lyrics?
John Sullivan Dwight wrote O Holy Night lyrics.
What does 'fall on your knees' mean in this carol?
Generally the phrase 'fall on your knees' means to kneel to pray in gratitude or respect.
Why was O Holy Night banned?
There was a rumor that the original lyricist, Placide Cappeau of this carol was an atheist and the composer, Adophe Adam was a Jew.
How many verses are in O Holy Night lyrics, Celine Dion?
There are three verses in O Holy Night. Mostly only the two verses are sung during performances. O Holy Night lyrics, Celine Dion has two verses and two choruses.
What are the basic O Holy Night lyrics chords?
Coon chords such as G, C, D, Bm, F#m and Em are used for this carol.
Is ‘O Holy Night’ lyrics, Mariah Carey the best version?
‘O Holy Night’ lyrics, Mariah Carey is one of the best versions of the popular christmas carol ever recorded.
Related Blog: https://musicmaster.in/blog/unlock-the-spirit-of-holidays-christmas-carols-chords/
