Mariah Carey

Lyrics

[Verse]
O holy night
The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth
Long lay the world
In sin and error pining
'Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth

[Chorus]
A thrill of hope
The weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks
A new and glorious morn
Fall on your knees
O hear the angels' voices
O night divine
O night when Christ was born
O night divine
O night
O night divine

[Chorus]
A thrill of hope
The weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks
A new and glorious morn
Fall on your knees
O hear the angels' voices
O night divine, yeah
O night when Christ was born
O night divine
O night divine (O night divine)
Ooh, yes it was (O night divine)
Oh, it is the night of our dear Savior's birth (O night divine)
Oh yeah, oh yeah, oh yeah
Yeah, it is (O night divine)
It was a long night, long night, long night
Oh, oh, oh, woah, woah, woah, yes it was (O night divine)

O Holy Night by Mariah Carey is undoubtedly an all-time holiday favorite that has captured the heart of millions. The song was written in the year 1847 by Adolphe Adam, a renowned French composer, as a poem titled "Cantique de Noel." In 1855, poet John Sullivan Dwight translated the poem from the original French into English, and it was finally transformed into a beautiful Christmas carol that we know today.

With its powerful lyrics and melody, Mariah Carey's version of O Holy Night takes the song to another level. Her stunning vocals, coupled with a gospel choir and a powerful orchestra, create an emotional and uplifting rendition that touches the heart and soul of all who hear it.

About O Holy Night

The instrumentals of the song begin with a gentle piano solo, followed by Mariah Carey's opening verse. Her voice effortlessly glides over the melody, setting the pace for the rest of the song. As the song gains momentum, the choir comes in with harmonies, further raising the tune's emotional quotient. The song builds up to a climax with Mariah Carey's powerful vocals hitting high notes, leaving the listener with goosebumps.

The song's lyrics tell the tale of the night when Jesus Christ was born. It describes the star that shone bright above the birthplace, leading the three wise men to Bethlehem, where they paid reverence to the newborn king. The chorus, "Fall on your knees, Oh hear the angel voices," calls to the listener to join in and worship with all their heart, much like the shepherds who first greeted baby Jesus on that holy night. Throughout the song, Mariah Carey's vocals are full of emotion, capturing the essence of the lyrics, and leaving an indelible impact on the listener.

The arrangement of the song is complex yet soulful. The first verse and chorus's melody are simple, setting up the song's narrative. The tune then progresses into a more complex composition with the choir and orchestra adding depth and texture to the song. Mariah Carey's ad-libs and runs throughout the song underscore her vocal range and control, adding to the song's soulful Gospel sound that captures the essence of Christmas.

O Holy Night has become one of the most iconic songs of the holiday season, and Mariah Carey's version adds to its charm. The song's melody is so timeless it calls to mind the generations that have sung it and will continue to do so for years to come. Mariah Carey's rendition has only cemented its place as a cherished song of the season. The song's powerful message is not restricted to the Christian faith, as it speaks to the joy, hope, and peace that we all seek in life. It is a song that connects people worldwide and helps spread the message of togetherness and goodwill.

Conclusion

O Holy Night is a song that has stood the test of time and has been reinterpreted in various forms throughout the years. Mariah Carey's version is undoubtedly a standout rendition that has added to the song's timeless appeal. The song's message is one of devotion, and it speaks to the deeper meaning of Christmas, which is the celebration of love, hope, and unity. As we listen to its soul-stirring melody and lyrics, we are reminded of the miracle that occurred on that holy night and the hope that it still brings to the world today.

• Release Date: November 1, 1994
• Artist: Mariah Carey