What Child Is This?
Kaylene Peoples's rendition of "What Child Is This" showcases her compelling vocal performance, through which she eloquently retells the timeless story of Jesus' birth. Infusing her soulful and jazzy flair into the carol, she adds a unique touch to the song, making it a standout track in The Meaning of Christmas Ep. Once again, Rich Mouser's virtuosity on the guitar shines through in this rendition, providing a harmonious accompaniment that beautifully complements Kaylene's vocals. His skillful playing adds depth and richness to the overall sound, enhancing the emotional impact of the carol. The fusion of Kaylene Peoples's distinctive style and Rich Mouser's guitar expertise solidifies the eclectic nature of The Meaning of Christmas Ep, making it a delightful collection of holiday tunes with a fresh and modern appeal.
As with many traditional Christmas carols, "What Child Is This" carries a rich history and deep spiritual meaning. Its transformation from a secular love ballad to a sacred Christmas carol is a testament to the enduring power of music and its ability to adapt and evolve over time. Through Kaylene Peoples's soulful interpretation and Rich Mouser's masterful guitar accompaniment, this timeless carol continues to resonate with audiences, inviting them to reflect on the true essence of Christmas and the profound message it carries.
About "What Child is This":
The lyrics to "What Child Is This" were written by English writer William Chatterton Dix in 1865. At the time, Dix worked as an insurance company manager and had suffered a severe illness that left him bedridden for an extended period. During his recovery, he experienced a spiritual renewal and wrote several hymns and poems, including "What Child Is This." The carol's lyrics pose a question about the identity of the child born in Bethlehem and highlights the significance of Jesus Christ's birth. The song narrates the scene of the nativity and invites listeners to reflect on the profound meaning of the event and the impact it has on humanity.
"What Child Is This" has been recorded by numerous celebrities and artists over the years, making it one of the most covered Christmas carols. Some of the notable versions include: Elvis Presley's released his rendition of "What Child Is This" on his 1966 holiday album (Elvis' Christmas Album); Andrea Bocelli recorded it on his 2009 album My Christmas; Josh Groban included "What Child Is This" on his 2007 Christmas album Noel; Pentatonix, the Grammy-winning a cappella group covered "What Child Is This" on their Christmas album A Pentatonix Christmas released in 2016; Johnny Mathis recorded "What Child Is This" for his 1958 Christmas album Merry Christmas; and Sarah McLachlan included "What Child Is This (Greensleeves)" on her 2006 holiday album Wintersong.
The carol's beautiful melody and meaningful lyrics have made it a favorite among singers from various genres, allowing it to be interpreted in diverse styles and voices, each adding their own personal touch to this classic Christmas carol.
