Christmas

An immensely talented young woman turned in a tremendous and awe-inspiring performance of a beautifully written song about the birth of Jesus Christ.

The Christmas season is a time for family and friends to come together to recognize and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ - the Savior. It’s the time when beloved Christmas movies and television specials start reappearing on screens. Also, those favorite and classic Christmas tunes are heard again on the radio and in stores.

One song that celebrates and recognizes the miracle of Jesus Christ's birth in a lowly stable to a virgin and what it meant to the world is “Noel,” by Lauren Daigle and Chris Tomlin. In a clip posted on YouTube, a 10-year-old, Claire Crosby covers that song. 

“Noel, Noel
Come and see what God has done
Noel, Noel
The story of amazing love!
The light of the world, given for us
Noel”

Little Claire Crosby’s performance is outstanding, to say the least!

The young woman has been blessed with a God-given, remarkable singing voice. She is tremendously talented, able to sing and give an awesome performance with what appears to be little effort and strain. 

About a minute into the song, Claire’s father, who stands several people behind her and off to the side, joins in and begins singing. It’s fair to say that Claire’s vocal talents have surpassed that of her dad. She sounds much better and more confident than him throughout their performance. 

Claire’s singing is immensely impressive, and that is 100 percent clear. However, what may be even more impressive are her stage presence and poise. Claire stands on stage, singing to an auditorium of people and does not appear nervous or rattled at all. She owns the stage, obviously enjoying her time in the spotlight.

At the song's end, those looking on and taking in the performance respond with a well-deserved, hearty extended round of applause. 

James 5:13 “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let him say prayers. Is anyone glad? Let him make a song of praise.”

Several immensely talented children gave a toe-tapping and energetic performance of an already upbeat and beloved Christmas tune. 

The Christmas season is a terrific, joyous and, arguably, the best time of the year. It’s a period intended to celebrate, remember and honor the birth of Jesus Christ. Christ’s entrance into the world changed the course of history forever, providing hope for anyone and everyone.

The hope that Christ’s birth, and later His death and resurrection, brought to a lost and hurting world is not limited to one specific group of people. Instead, Christ’s love, mercy and forgiveness transcends race, gender, culture and language. 

As such, many people all over the world celebrate and recognize the birth of Jesus Christ. Christ came to save all from their sins. The Bible states that all who confess their sins and believe, in their heart, that Jesus Christ is Lord will have everlasting life with Him. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, the One Voice Children’s Choir performs the Spanish-English Christmas song “Feliz Navidad.” It’s a beautiful and unbelievably catchy cover. 

All who listen and watch this entire clip will be in a decidedly better mood. There is no possible way, after listening to those splendid and delightful harmonies, anyone could be in a poor frame of mind. 

“I wanna wish you a merry Christmas
I wanna wish you a merry Christmas
I wanna wish you a merry Christmas
From the bottom of my heart”

Not only are the vocal performances tremendously upbeat and catchy, but the video’s visuals only add and enhance the song’s already joyous, celebratory sound. 

People are dancing, swaying and moving around to the beat of the music. Bright, vibrant colors and smiles abound in the video for this energetic Christmas cover. The video is a picture-perfect representation of the joyful celebration that is Christmas Day and the entire Christmas season. 

Romans 10:9 “Because, if you say with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and have faith in your heart that God has come back from the dead, you will have salvation.”

"O Holy Night" Just my cover of this Christmas Classic. Did it my way. I like my Intro better. Recorded by me, myself and some A.I.

"What Child Is This" It's my version of the Christmas song. It is simply me, doing it my way and keeping the lyrics to only the 1st verse & chorus. Just a few snap-shot pictures without any lyrics. Music is in a Vintage Rock kind of way.

Seventh movement in the symphony and graphic novel The Nativity of Jesus by Ralph Lecessi. Realizing he had been tricked, Herod orders to have all baby boys in Bethlehem killed. Joseph takes Mary and baby Jesus and flees to Egypt, where they stay until Herod is dead.

Eighth movement in the symphony and graphic novel The Nativity of Jesus by Ralph Lecessi. Christ is King of the Universe and we prepare for his Second Coming.

Sixth movement in the symphony and graphic novel The Nativity of Jesus by Ralph Lecessi. The Magi discover that the Christ child will be born and follow the star to Judea. Herod, wanting to protect his throne, asks them to report back to hime with Christ's location. The wise men find baby Jesus in Bethlehem, adore him, and return home by another route.

Fifth movement in the symphony and graphic novel The Nativity of Jesus by Ralph Lecessi. Shepherds tending their flocks are told by an angel that the Christ child has been born. They travel to Bethlehem, where they adore baby Jesus.

Fourth movement in the symphony and graphic novel The Nativity of Jesus by Ralph Lecessi. Joseph, after troubled dreams, takes Mary to Bethlehem. When Mary goes into labor, Joseph begs for someone to give them a place to stay. An innkeeper allows them to use his stable. Mary gives birth to baby Jesus, and places him in a manger.

Third movement in the symphony and graphic novel The Nativity of Jesus by Ralph Lecessi. Mary travels to the hills of Judea to visit her cousin Elizabeth. Upon seeing Mary, Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit, and praises Mary and her unborn child.

Second movement in the symphony and graphic novel The Nativity of Jesus by Ralph Lecessi. The angel Gabriel announces to the Virgin Mary that she will be the mother of the Christ child. Mary, initially concerned, unconditionally accepts God's Will.

Often, Joseph is not thought of. Song expresess his commitmen to "Protect & Provide" for God's son. Soloist MARTIN TUBRIDY, the original bass that Harry Chapin wrote of in his song, Mr. Tanner, brings this song to life.

A world-renowned musician and his talented young daughter turned in a moving and stunning performance on a popular British program, singing a beloved song from the late Leonard Cohen.

While long-running television programs like American Idol, America’s Got Talent, The Voice and Dancing with the Stars remain popular despite their lengthy run, they still want to increase viewership. So, to accomplish this task, those shows often use gimmicks like theme nights and bring other, more widely recognized performers on to sing, dance and even guest judge. 

As it turns out, The United States of America isn’t the only country in the world where citizens tune in to watch other people ballroom dance. The Brits also apparently enjoy this type of television programming. But instead of Disney or Taylor Swift-themed nights, one British program went in a decidedly different and much better direction to try and increase viewership. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Italian musician Andrea Bocelli and his daughter Virginia appeared on an episode of Strictly Come Dancing – a show very much like Dancing with the Stars. 

The father-daughter duo appeared on the British program and performed the classic and beloved 1984 hit “Hallelujah.” As expected, it’s a lovely performance featuring two talented musicians. 

The duet begins with young Virginia singing the opening lyrics. Her world-famous father sits next to her, strumming along on the guitar. 

“Now, I’ve heard there was a secret chord
That David played, and it pleased the Lord
But you don’t really care for music, do you?
It goes like this, the fourth, the fifth”

After singing the opening verse herself, Andrea joins his daughter by singing the tune’s simple but memorable chorus. But the highlight of their entire performance is when Andrea begins singing in Italian about a minute into the clip. 

It's such an unexpected but welcomed twist, helping to make for a dazzling performance. The sound is beautiful despite likely not many in the audience or those watching at home understanding a word of Italian. 

Ephesians 5:19 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”

A group of four musically gifted men, The Overtones, gave an upbeat and catchy performance, singing how they wished they could experience the joy and warmth of Christmas every single day of the year.

As everyone already knows, Christmas is, unfortunately, just one day out of the year. However, for many people, it’s likely the most anticipated day on the calendar. It’s a chance to spend time with family and friends to celebrate the birth of Christ, exchange gifts and eat too much food. What is there not to love about Dec. 25?

Given the abundance of joy and happiness present during a Christmas celebration, I’d venture to guess that most people wouldn’t mind if Christmas were extended a day or two. Who could ever be against that idea?

In a video posted on YouTube, the UK pop quartet The Overtones sings “Christmas Everyday,” a tune about experiencing Christmas all 365 days. That’s a desire most people can wholeheartedly agree with and understand. 

“Christmas Everyday” is a catchy, toe-tapping song about the best, most memorable aspects of the Christmas season. Because it is so upbeat and noticeably fast-paced, it’s a tune that is sure to get stuck in your head. You’ll probably find yourself singing it silently hours after that final listen. 

“Sidewalks covered up in snow
Lights up everywhere we go
Santa’s on his way
It’s Christmas every day”

In addition to the lyrics about Santa, Christmas trees and snow-covered surfaces, the video provides many perfect visual depictions of all things Christmas. 

The guys wear matching red suits and then don some of the ugliest Christmas sweaters you’ve ever seen while faux snow falls as the guys sing about wanting Christmas every single day. 

Later in the video, their families join the fun, sitting near an intricately decorated Christmas tree. 

Luke 2:7 “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”

Four supremely talented young men, Kings Return, turned in an utterly delightful and awe-inspiring Christmas-themed musical performance.

There are several Christmas-themed films and songs that are heard and watched every single year. For some families, listening to those songs or viewing those movies and television specials has basically morphed into an annual tradition. 

Some of those beloved Christmas songs come from the classic Nutcracker ballet. There are several tunes from that work that most are likely familiar with but do not realize it came from a ballet. In a clip posted on YouTube, the group Kings Return performs those memorable and classic tracks a cappella.

The nearly 4-and-a-half-minute video features four talented gentlemen displaying their God-given gift for sound. The sound the guys create is literal music to the ears. It’s so soothing, calming and pleasant. One could easily listen to these guys for hours without ever getting tired of their sound. 

Not only do the four guys sound terrific, but the video is also a sight to behold. Viewers get one shot after another of a stunningly beautiful restaurant decorated in Christmas décor and an apartment adorned with wreaths, lights and a Christmas tree. 

As viewers listen and watch the Christmas-themed clip, they’ll be immediately overwhelmed with the holiday spirit, feeling as if they are now fully ready for the Christmas season. Christmas and all the fun and excitement that typically accompany the holiday season and Christmas Day radiates from that video. 

Likely, while listening and watching Kings Return beautifully and masterfully perform the songs from The Nutcracker, a strong feeling of nostalgia will wash over you. Memories and images of Christmases long past will come rushing back. You’ll unexpectedly find yourself wanting to go back and relive and experience those special Christmas celebrations for just a few moments. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

A group of talented vocalists put their immense talents to work by creating a thoroughly enjoyable medley of familiar tunes from the beloved Nutcracker ballet.

The human voice is a unique and versatile instrument. Musicians can and do use it to create a wide range of interesting sounds and captivating tones. Not only is the human voice capable of producing a wide variety of sounds, but it is the original instrument and the only one created by God himself. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, one group of vocalists, Voctave, created a stunning medley of music from the Nutcracker ballet. But instead of playing any conventional instruments to produce the familiar sound, they only use their voices. 

To say their final product is outstanding would be a severe understatement. Performing a cappella is dangerous because no instruments are present to cover up mistakes or slip-ups. If someone were to sing a wrong note or miss one entirely, the audience would probably be able to pick up on that mistake rather easily.

But instead of mistakes, Voctave’s performance is simply amazing. They produce high-quality sounds that all are likely more than familiar with, even if they don’t realize it.

Additionally, the group’s transitions between songs are absolutely flawless. There is no lag or confusion between the vocalists. Their timing is perfect, with no one missing a beat or a note throughout the 2-minute and 46-second clip.

Several others who commented on the group’s YouTube video also expressed their love and admiration for their Christmas-themed performance.

“I have one criticism. This wasn’t long enough!! I was left wanting more! This will most certainly end up on my “must listen” to Christmas music,” one person wrote.

“Epic! Such great rhythmic precision and control,” a second individual added.

“Great as always. Such an amazing harmony,” someone else mentioned. 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Beloved Italian musician Andrea Bocelli is joined by his talented young daughter, Virginia, for a remarkable duet as they sing “Winter Wonderland.”

Many holiday and Christmas-themed songs paint a beautiful picture of the winter season, creating this fictional, magical wonderland full of snow-covered trees, mountaintops and meadows. But the often-freezing temperatures and bone-chilling wind chills are anything but a wonderland. Regardless of the reality of the winter season weather conditions, those songs about a “winter wonderland” are still beloved by many.

One of those tunes that has become a favorite of many over the decades is “Winter Wonderland.” In a clip posted on YouTube, Andrea Bocelli is joined by his daughter, Virginia Bocelli, for a memorable and stunning duet. 

“Sleigh bells ring, are you listening?
In the lane, snow is glistening
A beautiful sight
We’re happy tonight
Walking in a winter wonderland”

It’s clear early on, as evidenced by this tune, that Andrea’s musical talent did not stop with him. His daughter, Virginia, also has quite the voice, able to belt out the lyrics as she sings with her world-famous father. 

This duet is a fantastic example of the immense musical skill and talent that Andrea and Virginia both possess. It’s a dazzling rendition of a classic Christmas song that is sure to become an iconic version, heard for many more Christmas seasons to come.

Others, in their written comments on the YouTube video, indicated that they wholeheartedly agreed with the assessment and loved the father-daughter duet.

“Absolutely fabulous! Virginia Bocelli has inherited her father’s great voice! This (is) a marvelous way to start off the Christmas season! Thank you,” one person posted.

“Absolutely amazing voices. Great duet Andrea and Virginia. Congratulations!!! Beautiful Christmas song,” a second person added.

“This is so beautifully performed. Andrea and Victoria are excellent together. I can see this becoming a classic being played regularly for future years. Well accomplished. Thank you so very much. Kindest regards from England,” a third individual wrote.

Psalms 95:1 “O come, let us make songs to the Lord; sending up glad voices to the Rock of our salvation.”

Bing Crosby and company have turned in and delivered yet another memorable and iconic performance of a beloved Christmas tune.

Christmas is a season that has no shortage of festive tunes that help listeners get in the holiday spirit. Fans of Santa Claus, Rudolph the Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman will be pleasantly surprised. There are plenty of songs about those characters. There is one tune that even mentions the green, evil and conniving central character from the Dr. Suess tale “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.”

But likely, as far as secular Christmas songs go, the most popular is “Jingle Bells.” By the end of the Christmas season, most people are likely sick and tired of that tune. Its many covers are in countless Christmas television specials, films and commercials. The song is often heard in several stores while customers peruse and complete their holiday shopping. 

However, no matter how much you may have heard “Jingle Bells,” there is still something special about hearing it sung by the legendary Bing Crosby. The late actor and singer could have opened a phonebook and belted out those names and numbers in a melodic fashion and turned it into a classic. 

In a short clip posted on YouTube, Bing is joined by several other people as they sing the often-heard but still beloved holiday track “Jingle Bells.”

“Jingle bells, jingle bells
Jingle all the way
Oh, what fun it is to ride
In a one-horse open sleigh, hey
Jingle bells, jingle bells”

Once again, in this short clip, Bing shows why his covers of Christmas songs are the versions heard annually. His soothing, calming and distinct voice creates a pleasant and enjoyable listening experience. 

Bing Crosby Christmas covers will, without a doubt, continue to be played for many more Christmas seasons to come.

Isaiah 9:6 “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Legendary actor and musician Bing Crosby turned in another memorable and iconic performance of a classic Christmas song about the evening Jesus Christ was born.

The Christmas season does not suffer from a lack of Christmas-themed movies and songs. The classic Christmas tunes, and most of the movies, for that matter, cover many topics and characters. More secular songs cover characters like Rudolph the Reindeer, Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman. But it’s arguably the more religious songs like “Joy to the World” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” that are the most beloved.

In a clip posted on YouTube, Bing Crosby sings another of those more religious and cherished songs, “Silent Night.” It's a dazzling performance! 

“Silent night, holy night
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon virgin, mother and child
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace”

Many of Bing Crosby’s Christmas covers are the versions consistently heard every Christmas season. Decades after his death, millions still hear his voice, even if they don’t realize it’s his. His Christmas covers are played on the radio, heard on television and in movies every year.

In the short but impactful clip, Bing makes it abundantly clear once again why that is the case. His voice is so smooth and soothing, helping to perfectly highlight and punctuate the meaning and significance of Christ’s entrance into the world on that most holy of nights. Christ, the newborn King, had arrived! 

Each time Bing sings, he makes it appear easy and effortless. There does not look to be any strain or really any trying at all on his part. He opens his mouth, and a voice that you could easily listen to for hours on end comes out. 

Isaiah 9:6 “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

World-renowned musician Andrea Bocelli was joined by family members for an utterly delightful performance of a beloved Christmas tune, “Away in a Manger.”

The world was changed forever after Mary gave birth to that precious baby boy in a stable in Bethlehem all those years ago. Following word of the newborn King’s birth, several traveled, near and far, to get a glimpse of that child, wrapped up in swaddling clothes, lying in a manager. Christ’s birth was the moment that gave hope to the entire world. 

In a clip posted on YouTube, Andrea Bocelli is joined by his children – Virginia and Matteo – for a lovely performance of “Away in the Manger.” Of course, it’s the classic Christmas hymn about the child born that evening. 

“Away in a manager
No crib for a bed
The little Lord Jesus
Lay down His sweet head”

While “Away in a Manger” is a song that many are likely able to recite completely from memory, it does not and has not gotten old. The beautiful lyrics about the baby sent to Earth to save mankind from sin are full of love, painting a beautiful picture of the newborn King. “Away in a Manger” is always, and likely will continue to be a popular tune every Christmas season. 

In addition to the lovely lyrics, the video is also a sight to behold. Andrea plays the piano and shoulders singing responsibilities with his daughter, Virginia. The two of them sit at the piano with a dazzling display of bright, festively decorated Christmas trees resting behind them. Also, throughout the video, viewers are treated to a perfect, serene and breathtaking winter scene – snow-covered mountains and falling snow along the ocean. 

The Bocelli family rendition of “Away in a Manger” is one that is more than worth a few listens. 

Luke 2:7 “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”