Nothing taps into nostalgia like Christmas. But even nostalgia can be overdone, as evidenced by the increasing number of people who detest Christmas music. I would, too, if the only Christmas songs I heard were the small collection of overly sweet pop hits played on mainstream stations. Luckily, Christmas music is rife with classic songs by Christian artists that haven't been played to death. Last year, we looked at some of them: Vol. 1, Vol. 2. (And we've covered many other projects through the years in our Wayback series: Rebecca St. James, Michael W. Smith, Sparrow Christmas). So continuing that tradition, here are a few more Christmas originals by classic Christian artists for you to add to your rotation.
Whiteheart - "Gloria"
Tucked away on a series of obscure compilations, this Christmas tune from the classic Christian rockers Whiteheart remains relatively unknown even among their vast discography. While their cover of "Little Drummer Boy" is more iconic, this original is older. Recorded before band member Ric Florian even joined the band in the group's early years, the song reaches anthemic heights. It's definitely a unique listen if you look it up online.
Twila Paris - "Celebrate The Gift"
Christian music veteran Twila Paris had a very underrated Christmas album called It's The Thought. But she also has another Christmas original that is much rarer, yet still a treasured Christmas classic. From a compilation of the same name, this song feels like a lost track from her Christmas project. It has all the Twila Paris hallmarks: A Christ-centered focus, powerful vocal delivery, and anthemic, inspirational melodies. Rediscover a long-lost gem.
Wayne Watson - "Child of Bethlehem"
If you like the classic sounds of 1980s and 1990s contemporary Christian music, you're likely very familiar with artist Wayne Watson. "Child of Bethlehem" is a noteworthy Christmas original that feels like a time capsule to another era of Christian music. A simpler, more melodic era. Watson's heartfelt voice can add emotion to a soaring melody, and this ode to the Christ child is no exception.
Rich Mullins - "You Gotta Get Up"
A Christmas song delivered in a style only the late Christian music veteran Rich Mullins could pull off. While Mullins could've gone for some biting social commentary, this is a straightforward love letter to childhood Christmas memories. Of course, it wouldn't be a Rich Mullins song without some musical surprises, including a slightly Celtic-inspired pipe interlude. The piano hooks are decidedly whimsical. While Mullins never dropped a Christmas project, he stuck this one right on his main album, A Liturgy, a Legacy, and a Ragamuffin Band. Hit play on this one for an instant nostalgia-fest.
As an aside, Christian artist Andrew Peterson has recorded a tribute album featuring a multitude of Rich Mullins' favorites--including this song. With guest Christian classic artist Leigh Nash, you can hear a modern cover of this holiday favorite.
Bryan Duncan - "Christmas is Jesus"
Bryan Duncan's soulful delivery pairs well with a haunting Carol of the Bells-style hook. This title track to Christian artist Duncan's Christmas album calls us out of the holiday bustle to recognize and worship the reason behind it all.
Carman - "For Unto You Is Born This Day"
Released in 1986 by Christian music superstar Carman on his album, A Long Time Ago ... In A Land Called Bethlehem. This song has appeared on many Christmas collections over the years. Carman is known for his cinematic approach to music. It might seem cheesy and dated to some, but it made him a household name in Christian music for a good while. This song is a biblically based carol that makes for a great nostalgic listen during the Christmas season. Its '80s rock influence adds a great flavor to the season's sonic landscape.
Stryper - "Reason for the Season"
What's old is new again. Christian rock icons Stryper's original song proclaiming the real reason we celebrate Christmas was among the first they recorded. But they've rerecorded it for their brand new Christmas album, The Greatest Gift of All. There aren't many metal Christmas songs and even fewer from Christian metal artists. That makes songs like this all the more memorable and classic.
J.J. Francesco is a longtime contributor to the NRT Staff. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. His new novel, 'When Miracles Can Dream,' is out NOW!
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