Today's song: I Pray On Christmas by Harry Connick Jr.
Why I love it: Harry Connick Jr has soul...and 99.99% of the time people say that, they're not talking about a white guy. ;-)
This song rocks. And if you pray, when you pray, listen to this song. The things he prays for--understanding, strength for those who are sick, working out problems--are good things to pray for on Christmas day or any other day of the year. They are also things we can all work for, whether you personally pray or not.
Today's song: Nothing But a Child by Robin and Linda Williams (no, not that Robin Williams)
Why I love it: This song is just beautiful. I love the message: Christ came into the world as a child, and all children are miracles. It may sound sappy, but it is a message that I believe. "Nothing but a Child could wash those tears away, and guide a weary world into the light of day. Nothing but a Child could help erase those miles, so once again we all can be children for a while."
I purposely arranged my countdown so my more religious-themed songs and Christmas carols would be in the final days before Christmas. Only one week left! Yikes. I'm almost done with my gifts. There are a couple things I still need to buy, and one handmade project left to finish.'
Why I love it: This is such a jazzy and joyful song. The lyrics are fun, the instrumentation is great, and I can't help but start dancing every time I hear it. The cover by CeeLo Green is also good, but I am posting the original here because this version is my favorite.
Today's song: Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney
Why I love it: This is another song that just puts a smile on my face when I hear it. The lyrics are simple and the tune is catchy. I'm not sure what instrument they used in the background that makes the twanging sounds, but it lends the song a great sound.
Before I continue with the Christmas song countdown I would like to say that my thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut. My heart breaks for the families of the victims.
Today's song: Snoopy's Christmas by The Royal Guardsmen
Why I love it: The songwriters may not have known it, but there was an actual Christmas truce during World War I. I always loved this song, with its message of peace and hope, but once I found out about that story, my appreciation for this song grew even more.
That's all I have for today. Hug your loved ones tight.
Why I love it: It starts out slow and melodic, then joyful, and then just plain goofy. I started laughing the first time I heard this song, especially because I have never heard another recorded version which includes the "alternative" lyrics to the chorus (Jingle bells, Batman smells...). To this day it puts a smile on my face every time I hear it.
Today's song: All I Want for Christmas is You, by Mariah Carey
Why I love it: This one is dedicated to my wonderful husband Jason. Like the song says, having loved ones in your life is better than any presents underneath the Christmas tree. It's even better than snow...and coming from me, that's saying something. ;-)
This video claims that this song is sexist because it perpetuates the idea that all women need to find a man to complete their lives. While I agree with her assessment of the other songs discussed in the video, I've always taken this one to be about a woman who has already found the love of her life and, for whatever reason, she hasn't seen him for a long time. She is singing because she misses him, a la "Please Come Home for Christmas." Of course, if you start with the assumption that she is singing about her crush, who has no idea she exists...yeah, I can see a stalker vibe.
