Nat King Cole

Lyrics

6 ContributorsO Tannenbaum LyricsIn German (with English translation)

O Tannenbaum, o Tannenbaum
(O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree)
Wie treu sind deine Blätter
(How loyal are your needles)
Du grünst nicht nur zur Sommerzeit
(You're green not only in the summertime,)
Nein auch im Winter, wenn es schneit
(No, also in winter when it snows)
O Tannenbaum, o Tannenbaum
(O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree)
Wie treu sind deine Blätter
(How loyal are your needles!)

O Tannenbaum, o Tannenbaum
(O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree)
Du kannst mir sehr gefallen
(You can please me very much)
Wie oft hat nicht zur Weihnachtszeit
(How often as not at Christmastime)
Ein Baum von dir mich hoch erfreut
(A tree like you given me such joy)
O Tannenbaum, o Tannenbaum
(O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree)
Du kannst mir sehr gefallen
(You can please me very much)
You might also likeO Tannenbaum, o Tannenbaum
(O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree)
Dein Kleid will mich was lehren:
(Your dress wants to teach me something:)
Die Hoffnung und Beständigkeit
(Your hope and durability)
Gibt Trost und Kraft zu jeder Zeit
(Provide comfort and strength at any time)
O Tannenbaum, o Tannenbaum!
(O Christmas tree, o Christmas tree)
Das soll dein Kleid mich lehren
(That's what your dress does teach me)

O Tannenbaum is a German Christmas Carol that has been around since the mid-16th century, and its meaning is heavily rooted in the traditions of Christmas. It is a very special song that speaks to the beauty and significance of the Christmas tree. Nat King Cole recorded a version of the song that has become an all-time classic and is still loved and enjoyed by people all around the world today.

About O Tannenbaum

The history of O Tannenbaum is both interesting and unique. It began as a folk song in Germany hundreds of years ago, and its popularity slowly spread throughout Europe. The song is so beloved that it has since become an integral part of Christmas celebrations worldwide. What makes it even more intriguing is that the song itself doesn't mention Christmas at all, yet it is still considered a Christmas carol.

The lyrics featured in Nat King Cole’s rendition of the song were composed by Ernst Anschütz in the early 19th century, and this version of the song is the most commonly sung. It may be a bit confusing to some people that the song talks about the tree’s fortitude and hope rather than the holiday season. Yet despite the apparent absence of a reference to the Christian aspect of the holiday, this song has been embraced by countless Christians and non-Christians as an integral part of the Christmas season.

One fascinating piece of history behind the song's popularity is a stunning tale that emerged during World War I, which makes it even more special in the hearts of many people. German soldiers reportedly sang the song while lighting small fir trees outside their trenches during Christmas in the trenches. The British troops across the way played along, singing Christmas songs as well. Unexpectedly, this led to a spontaneous "Christmas Truce," as the two sides exchanged gifts, greetings, and even played a game of football together. The two sides put aside their differences and celebrated the holiday season with one another. The story gives one hope that even in the midst of the worst conflicts, people can come together to find peace and joy.

The history and the imagery of the Christmas tree are both significant in relation to this song. The history of celebrating the holiday season with evergreen trees dates back to ancient times in many cultures. The Yule tree, a tradition that originated in the Alemanni region of Germany, became intertwined with Christian beliefs, and today, the Christmas tree (or der Tannenbaum, as it’s called in German) is an essential part of the day's celebrations.

The song's first two verses depict the tree's strength, hope, and dependability. The Christmas tree, which remains evergreen in the winter when other foliage dies, is a symbol of the eternal strength and endurance of the human spirit. The tree's power to provide comfort in times of distress is something that everyone can relate to, and the song's message has transcended cultural and linguistic boundaries.

Nat King Cole’s version of O Tannenbaum has become the most well-known arrangement of the song. His version transformed the traditional song with his unmistakable baritone and velvety-smooth voice. It's easy to get lost in the melody and lyrics of this song, whether listening to it alone or with loved ones. It's a poignant reminder of the importance of family, friends, and seasonal traditions during the holidays.

The song is a heartwarming tribute to the things that make the holiday season so special, like the Christmas tree, bonding with people who are close to us, and creating heartwarming memories that last a lifetime. The song carries a powerful message that everyone can relate to, and Nat King Cole's impeccable delivery of the song adds to its timeless quality. O Tannenbaum is truly one of the all-time great Christmas songs, and it will remain an essential part of the holiday season for years to come.

• Release Date: None
• Artist: Nat King Cole