One particularly beloved song in the Christmastime musical canon is “O Holy Night.” In particular, its “O night divine” passage is a guaranteed show-stopper. It was composed in France back in the mid-1800s and has since been sung by many millions, among them numerous recording artists, from early 20th century opera star Enrico Caruso to Whitney Houston and Patti LaBelle.
Country singer and songwriter Jennifer Nettles is best known as the lead vocalist for Sugarland. She joined the group shortly after it was founded by Kristian Bush and Kristan Hall. A few years later, Hall left the group but Bush and Nettles went on to win a Grammy as well as awards from the Academy of Country Music. In addition to being a talented singer, Nettles also has a knack for acting, having appeared on the NBC television movie “Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors” and the WGN America series “Underground.” When she isn’t on stage, Nettles takes time to do fundraising for several different charities.
Nettles sang a really beautiful version of “O Holy Night” at the SiriusXM studio and we’ve posted the video for you below. While gently playing her guitar, she delivers the Christmas carol with a voice than manages to be both delicate and powerful. This is followed by a transition into Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” a song adored by millions since its release in 1984. Cohen struggled mightily to get the composition just right and Nettles’ rendition is a wonderful tribute to the recently deceased composer. If you somehow didn’t get goosebumps from Jennifer Nettles’ “O Holy Night,” you’ll get them from this “Hallelujah.”
How did you like Jennifer Nettles’ recording of “O Holy Night” with Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” as a bonus? Let us know in the Facebook comments. Be sure to like and share: you don’t want your friends missing out on this outstanding Christmas-themed music video.