"The words to 'O Holy Night' are available in both French and English, here's a brief rundown:
In the heart of 19th-century France, a wine merchant and poet named Placide Cappeau was asked to write a Christmas poem in 1843 to celebrate the recent renovation of the church organ in his home town. This poem would eventually become the lyrics for one of the most beloved Christmas carols of all time, "O Holy Night."
The English lyrics to this carol begin as follows:
```markdown O holy night! The stars are brightly shining, It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth. Long lay the world in sin and error pining, Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn; Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices! O night divine, O night when Christ was born; O night, O holy night, O night divine! ```
These beautiful words were translated into English by American minister John Sullivan Dwight in the 1850s from the original French carol "Cantique de Noel" composed by Adolphe Adam in 1847. The song is well known for its powerful and hopeful message celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and its call for peace and freedom.
Adolphe Adam, a French composer and music critic, is also known for the opera Giselle. His "O Holy Night" is one of his best-known works and has been a long-running favourite in Christmas celebrations.
Over the years, various artists have lent their voices to this classic carol. Classical crossover artists Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli have performed it, featuring the original French version on their albums. Mariah Carey and Nat King Cole have also recorded covers of the song.
In recent years, a duet rendition of the carol by baritone Aled Jones and young treble Malakai Bayoh went viral on social media during Christmas 2022. The Choir of King's College, Cambridge is also known for their popular annual performances of "O Holy Night."
Despite its age, "O Holy Night" shows no signs of waning in popularity. Last year, it was voted the Nation's Favourite Carol in an annual poll on a certain website, and it is a part of "The 30 greatest Christmas carols of all time."
Whether it's the original French lyrics, "Minuit, chrétiens, C'est l'heure solennelle...", or the English translation, "O holy night, the stars are brightly shining...", "O Holy Night" continues to be a timeless Christmas favourite.
