I can understand why they think it’s not fitting, but that ship has sailed. She already performed there – last year. And I think she did a beautiful job.
Here’s her soulful rendition of O, Holy Night.
I have to admit I am ordinarily not a fan of this Christmas classic, though I know that puts me at odds with most of you reading this.
The babe in a manger is simple and hidden and the gorgeous folk melodies that comprise his tribute carols ought not to be over-orchestrated, nor belted out like power ballads, in my stubborn opinion. Carols are for lowly folk, not divas.
Usually, therefore, as soon as the twinkly arpeggios of introduction start, I skip to the next track if possible. In a church or concert setting, I set my teeth against the inevitable exaggerated vibrato and the slightly flat high note to come and offer it up.
Smith’s version is entirely different in character. There’s absolutely no braggadocio or unseemly showmanship in it, nothing to detract from the simple words and melody. No one would call hers a gorgeous voice in the classical sense, but it has emotion and raw beauty, and you get the sense as she sings that this soul knows what is to be weary and would welcome the news of a Savior.
Perhaps it is just a mood I’m in, but Smith’s version of O, Holy Night, strikes in me a chord of laying the burdens and disillusionment of a difficult year at the feet of the holy child and resting, truly resting, in Jesus.