Christmas Day is ten days away, and this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday is John Legend. The twelve-time Grammy winner was over a decade into his career when he released his first Christmas album, “A Legendary Christmas,” on October 26, 2018. When one thinks about Legend’s piano skills, it’s surprising that it took him so long to do a Christmas project; however, perhaps the singer was waiting for the right time. Music fans will be delighted that the legendary Raphael Saadiq produces all the songs for the project.
“A Legendary Christmas” features fourteen songs, eight of which are “Christmas classics” and six original tracks by Legend. The initial single from the album, titled “Bring Me Love,” is a musical track that articulates a profound yearning for love during the holiday season. The lyrics reflect a sense of emptiness and a desire for the presence of a significant other. This composition underscores the notion that material possessions and gifts cannot substitute for the vital importance of love and companionship.
A cover of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” featuring Esperanza Spalding, was the second single from his holiday album. Legend brings his signature style to the track, harmoniously blending with Spalding’s vocals. He also excels in his renditions of R&B holiday classics, including “What Christmas Means to Me” (featuring Stevie Wonder), “Please Come Home for Christmas,” and a medley of “Merry Christmas Baby” and “Give Love on Christmas Day.” From a traditional perspective, Legend covers “Purple Snowflakes,” “Christmas Time Is Here,” and “Silver Bells.”
The true strength of the album unequivocally lies in its original tracks. “No Place Like Home” embodies buttery jazz perfection, capturing the warmth and joy of celebrating Christmas in the comfort of one’s home. “Waiting for Christmas” beautifully captures the emotional landscape of longing and anticipation during the holiday season. Legend & Saadiq co-wrote a song revolving around Christmas as a time for joy and togetherness, yet emphasizes that without a loved one, the festivities feel incomplete.
“By Christmas Eve” will resonate with listers who want to get home to their loved ones in time, while “Wrap Me Up In Your Love” beautifully conveys that love is the greatest gift during the Christmas season. Unsurprisingly, the album’s closing song, “Merry Merry Christmas,” focuses on Christmas’s various activities and traditions, such as decorating the tree and exchanging gifts.
While Legend’s later catalog isn’t as strong as his earlier work, “A Legendary Christmas” is a solid holiday album,
Final Grade: B
“A Legendary Christmas” is available on all streaming platforms.
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