Hello, everyone. Welcome back to the countdown.

A sweet vintage Christmas card image from Pinterest. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Today is a unique day in music. It is the birth anniversary for Jim Morrison-born in 1943-and the day we lost John Lennon in 1980. He & The Beatles helped start The British Invasion in the mid 1960’s while Morrison & The Doors basically ended it with the release of their debut album in January 1967. Two immense iconic & legendary performers who were so much alike yet so different in their approaches to music, life and love.

Jim Morrison circa 1969. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

One of ways Lennon offered not only those things but hope as well was through his holiday message delivered through song in 1971. The world was changing through politics, culture and war and in need of something that could put everyone on the same page. And 53 years later, with the world sadly in the same dark place, Lennon’s voice still offers some light. Thank you, John. You are missed. Every. Single. Day.

John Lennon circa 1969. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Several other artists have covered today’s song including Sarah McLachlan who included her version on her 2006 holiday album, Wintersong. In the spirit of Lennon’s original, she also included a child’s choir on backing vocals courtesy of the Children’s and Youth Choirs of the Music Outreach Program at the Sarah McLachlan School of Music in Vancouver, British Columbia.

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

John Lennon & Yoko Ono and The Plastic Ono Band with The Harlem Community Choir: “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” (1971, written by John Lennon & Yoko Ono).

Sarah McLachlan: “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” (2006, written by John Lennon & Yoko Ono).

What are some of your favorite Christmas songs?

Until next time, happy listening!!!