The Music of Christmas - Day 8
December 8th, 2006 by Phil
“Because It’s Christmas”
Barry Manilow
 Image from Amazon.com
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Website | Amazon | No iTunes |
I can hear it now. “Barry Manilow?”
Yes.
“BARRY MANILOW?!?!?”
Yes. This is my list, not yours. And I will admit to liking one or two Barry Manilow songs. Remember what I wrote a few days ago, about things I like in songs? Well, some of those things are present in this song.
First, it starts off with an excerpt from Handel’s “Messiah”, in an orchestral arrangement with horns, percussion, and strings. The “Messiah” is one of the quintessential symphonic holiday pieces, and it probably is as synonymous with Christmas as “The Nutcracker Suite.” So, this song gets points for it’s inclusion.
Secondly, this song has some great transitions and key changes in the melody. It’s little things like how the chorus includes minor chords and there’s a transition to a new key towards the end of the song — it’s things like that which I enjoy in songs.
Yes, this song is a bit bombastic and in-your-face. I admit that. But it also can be tender and warm-hearted.
“Tonight belongs to the all the children
Tonight their joy rings through the air.”
And in the chorus, Barry sings
“Because it’s Christmas
For now and forever
For all of the children
And for the children in us all.”Again, these are points that can ring true today. There probably is still a kid inside a lot of us who can still be excited by the season, no matter what you believe or celebrate.
So, yes. Barry Manilow. Take a listen next time you get a chance. You may be surprised.
Tomorrow — Do I redeem myself in your eyes? Maybe.