Hello, everyone. Welcome back to the countdown.

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

The first volume of A Very Special Christmas came out in 1987. The proceeds went to the Special Olympics but it also introduced the world to obscure performances of holiday songs by some of music’s most notable performers. Thanks to the third volume in the series released in 1997, I discovered today’s track. It felt like 1988 all over again, which was the first time I heard the singer’s beautiful delicate contralto voice on her deeply moving debut single, “Fast Car”. Her take on today’s song is just as poignant and evocative, perfect for this Christmas Eve day. .

“A thrill of hope
The weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks
A new and glorious morn’“.

Tracy Chapman circa 2010. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Tracy Chapman: “O Holy Night” (1997, written by Adolphe Charles Adam and John Sullivan Dwight).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing some things that I love with you  What are some of your favorite Christmas songs?

Until next time, happy listening!!!