Ennio Morricone and his unforgettable scores
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Everyone knows Christmas is a magical time: the twinkling lights, the shiny and festive decorations, the rush for presents, the spirit of merriment in the air... The atmosphere is so special also thanks to Christmas music, which begins to accompany our daily lives in the first days of December (but sometimes even before, let's be honest). By now, there are fewer and fewer days left until Christmas, so let's explore together some of the most symbolic Christmas songs that have the power to warm our hearts and transport us to a world of joy and carefreeness.
- Jingle Bells: A joyful Christmas symphony
Written by James Lord Pierpont and published in 1857 under the title “One Horse Open Sleigh”, it is undoubtedly one of the best-known and most-sung Christmas songs in the world. The lively sound of the bells and the infectious rhythm make this song a universal anthem of joy and celebration.
Yet did you know that although it is associated with Christmas and the holiday season, it was originally written to be sung during Thanksgiving?
- Silent Night: The sweet serenity of the night
It is a timeless masterpiece that conveys the peace and serenity of Christmas night. The original German version, “Stille Nacht,” was composed in 1816 by a priest from Salzburg named Joseph Mohr. The priest wrote the lyrics of the carol to celebrate the holy night of Jesus' birth and, at the same time, to cheer up the Austrian people, who had been tried by the devastation of the Napoleonic wars. It was his meeting with the composer Franz Xaver Gruber that led to the version of “Silent Night” that we know today.
- O Holy Night: Spiritual emotion in music
This emotional and touching carol magically captures the Christmas spirit and celebrates the love and hope that make Christmas so special. Despite its English title, it has French origins: written in 1843, it was originally called “Cantique de Noël” and was set to music by composer Adolphe Adam in 1847. It evokes a vast range of emotions, from solemnity to joy, enveloping the listener in a cocoon of true Christmas spirit. - All I Want for Christmas Is You: The modern joy of Mariah Carey
Is there someone who hasn’t heard this song? A more modern Christmas carol loved and known to such an extent that it has become a contemporary Christmas classic. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" conveys not only light-hearted merriment but also a message of love and sharing. This song's ability to capture the Christmas spirit makes it a staple of the holiday season. - Last Christmas: A hymn to nostalgia in the heart of the festive season
In the vast repertoire of Christmas songs, few evoke the same wave of emotion and nostalgia as “Last Christmas,” the timeless classic written and performed by Wham! in the 1980s which sold ten million copies worldwide. Its lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for a lost love and a Christmas atmosphere that, despite the melancholy, remains intrinsically linked to precious memories. - Joy to the world: A warm embrace for the entire world
“Joy to the World” is one of the most famous and festive songs ever written, but do you know the story behind it? This tune was written by the English composer Isaac Watts in the 18th century, but was not originally intended as a Christmas carol, but rather as a religious poem based on verses from Psalm 98. However, over the years, its lively melody has turned it into an essential part of Christmas celebrations, elevating it to a truly universal hymn of joy. - The Christmas Song: The melody of tradition
“The Christmas Song” also known as “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire” was written in 1945 by Mel Tormé and Bob Wells and quickly became a timeless classic. What makes this song so special is its ability to create an atmosphere of warmth and comfort – absorbed into family tradition, it is now passed down from generation to generation. “The Christmas Song” has also left its mark on pop culture featuring in films, television programmes and Christmas advertisements. - White Christmas: the magic of a snowy Christmas
Irving Berlin's Christmas classic “White Christmas”, made famous by Bing Crosby's warm voice, is more than just a song: it is a nostalgic ode to the precious beauty of a snow-white Christmas. The tune conveys a sense of nostalgia and a desire to return to a time when the holidays were imbued with simplicity and family traditions. “White Christmas” has become a symbol of hope and Christmas tradition.
- Rudolph the Red–Nosed Reindeer: Santa's brave reindeer
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” is one of the most fun and best-loved Christmas songs. It tells the story of Rudolph the reindeer who became Santa's guide thanks to his ability to light up the night with his bright red nose. The melody captures the joyful spirit of Christmas. Still, in its simplicity, this song tells a true story of acceptance, courage and hope framed by a festive accompaniment that continues to strike a chord in the heart of anyone who hears it.
- Santa Claus is coming to town: the excitement of children
What other song than this one best encapsulates the excitement and trepidation for the arrival of Father Christmas? With its lively rhythm and cheerful melody, “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” captures the enthusiasm of children eagerly awaiting the most magical Christmas moment. This song also reinforces the tradition of Santa Claus travelling around the world in his sleigh to bring gifts to all children. “Santa Claus is coming to Town” perfectly embodies the joyful spirit of Christmas by encouraging goodness and hope in the minds and hearts that hear it.
These ten songs are just a taste of the vast and fascinating collection of music inspired by Christmas, and each tune has the power to transport us to a world of magic and tradition, uniting people across generations. Whether your heart belongs to timeless classics or you’re partial to more modern tunes, there is no doubt that these songs continue to fill our souls with joy and warmth, making Christmas the jolliest and most special time of the year