More Than Just Jingle Bells: Finding Hope & Unity in Holiday Music
The Soundtrack to the Season
When we think of holiday music, the first things that often come to mind are cheerful carols, sleigh bells, and maybe a crackling fireplace. There's a certain magic in that festive soundscape, a nostalgia that instantly transports us back to childhood memories.
But as a songwriter, I believe the enduring power of holiday music goes much deeper than just catchy tunes. At its heart, the best holiday music taps into something universal: a shared longing for peace, a sense of togetherness, and a spark of hope, even when the world outside feels uncertain. It’s a genre uniquely capable of offering comfort and reminding us of our shared humanity.
Music as a Message of Hope
Think about some of the holiday songs that have truly stood the test of time. Many carry a profound message beneath the festive wrapping. John Lennon & Yoko Ono’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” is a perfect example. Released during the Vietnam War, it wasn’t just a Christmas song; it was a powerful plea for peace, wrapped in a melody that felt both urgent and hopeful. It reminds us that the holiday spirit isn’t just about celebration; it’s about aspiring to something better.
Finding Unity in Song
The holiday season, at its best, is about connection—with family, friends, and our wider community. Music has an incredible ability to bridge divides and bring people together. Whether it’s singing carols door-to-door or gathering around a piano, shared songs create shared moments.
That feeling of unity and compassion is something I find especially resonant today, in a time where the world often feels fractured. It’s a reminder that the simple act of singing together, even about simple things like peace on Earth, can be a powerful act of connection.
A Song for This Season
It’s this deeper spirit of hope and togetherness that I find myself drawn to as an artist, especially during the holiday season. It’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and for putting a little more kindness out into the world.
Music has always been my way of processing the world and sharing those feelings. And this year, I felt inspired to contribute my own small message of hope to the season. Stay tuned...
What holiday song brings you a sense of hope or comfort? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below.