Everywhere I go these days, there’s Christmas music playing.I generally like Christmas carols and songs (except for “Jingle Bells”). I do think, however, that there are three rules that should be followed if an artist wishes to successfully record a Christmas tune.
(These rules also apply to performing any cover song…)
1 \ Maintain at least 95% of the original melody. Jazzy variations are OK...but only in small doses.
2 \ Maintain at least 95% of the original lyric...and intent. Sacred songs should be about Jesus. Secular about Santa, winter weather, or Good King Wenceslas.
3 \ Bring something new to the song...something only YOU can offer: a creative arrangement, clever instrumentation, or unusual production.
The best Christmas song compilation is offered by my friend, Jerry Salley. “It’s Christmas in December!” has been going strong since 1996, and is always filled with an eclectic array of terrific Christmas music.
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ReplyDeleteAgreed, except I'm a little more lenient on the percentage of original melody and lyrics that should be maintained. I'd ask for maybe 80 percent. But this is something upon which reasonable people can disagree.
ReplyDeletewhat do you think about the Harry Connick Jr. - When My Heart Finds Christmas - CD?
ReplyDeleteI never paid much attention to HCjr. Should I have?
ReplyDelete