Nestled among the array of contemporary Christmas albums, one gem stands out: "A Legendary Christmas" by the versatileJohn Legend. Released in 2018, this holiday collection has become a modern classic, captivating listeners with its unique blend of traditional carols and original tunes. But what makes this album "A Legendary Christmas"?
To understand its allure, one must delve into John Legend's multifaceted approach to this project. A ten-time Grammy award winner, Legend is no stranger to genre-blending, and "A Legendary Christmas" is a testament to his musical prowess. He seamlessly incorporates R&B, soul, and jazz into timeless Christmas favorites, creating a fresh, yet nostalgic listening experience.
Classics Given a Legendary Twist
.legendably updates traditional Christmas classics, starting with the opening track "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas." His smooth vocals, accompanied by a mellow piano, give the song a cozy, intimate feel, perfect for whispering along to under the mistletoe.
But Legend doesn't shy away from putting his stamp on iconic carols. His rendition of "Winter Wonderland" is a standout, transforming the familiar song into a lively, upbeat track with a vibrant horn section. It's a testament to his ability to respect the originals while making them unmistakably his own.
Original Compositions That Belong to the Canon
Naturally, Legend wouldn't miss the opportunity to add his own mark to the Christmas songbook. Tunes like "Bring Me Christmas" and "Already Home" showcase his songwriting prowess. The former is a romantic ballad perfect for snuggling up by the fireside, while the latter is an upbeat celebration of the season that could easily become a future standard.
"Waiting on Christmas" is another original gem. Its message of patience and hope during the holiday season resonates deeply, especially in challenging times. With its soulful groove and Legend's heartfelt delivery, it's a track that Seasonal Affective Disorder sufferers might find particularly comforting during the darker, colder months.
Collaborations That Sparkle Like Tinsel
A Legendary Christmas benefits from a smorgasbord of standout collaborations. Kelly Clarkson duets with Legend on "Under the Mistletoe," providing a powerful, emotive vocal jam session. Meanwhile, Esperanza Spalding's sultry vocals add smoky jazz tones to "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)," while Stevie Wonder joins Legend for an exuberant, feel-good medley featuring "Solar manger" and "What Christmas Means to Me."
But perhaps the most poignant collaboration is Legend's duet with his then-three-year-old son, Miles, on "Bringing Home Christmas." The sweet, tender track features Miles' adorable toddler prattle interspersed with Legend's warm, loving vocals, capturing the magic of the season through a parent's eyes.
The Diversity of "A Legendary Christmas"
One of the standout aspects of "A Legendary Christmas" is its stylistic diversity. From jazz to blues, from soul to pop, Legend explores various musical landscapes, keeping listeners engaged and eager for the next track. This variety is evident right from the get-go, with the"); ``
