A Contemporary Gospel Christmas: A Soulful Spin on Holiday Classics
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when gospel meets folk with a dash of country charm, A Contemporary Gospel Christmas is your answer. Released in 1994 by Unison Music and Regency Entertainment, this album feels like a warm hug from an old friend—albeit one who’s really into harmonies and organ solos. Produced by Derrick Lee and Sanchez G. Harley, it’s got that homespun vibe that makes you wanna sip cocoa by the fire while humming along.
Let’s talk tracks for a sec. First up, “Go, Tell It On The Mountain.” Oh man, this one slaps. The BC&M Singers bring so much energy, it’s impossible not to feel like shouting (or at least clapping). Ralph Lofton’s organ work here? Chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of track that makes church pews feel optional—you’ll be dancing in the kitchen before you know it. And those harmonies? Pure goosebump material.
Then there’s “O Holy Night,” which takes things down a notch but still hits hard emotionally. This version strips away all the bells and whistles (literally) and lets the vocals shine. It’s hauntingly beautiful, like staring at stars on a cold winter night. Mark Nevers’ mixing deserves props here—he didn’t overdo it, letting the raw emotion breathe. By the time the last note fades, you might find yourself reaching for tissues or maybe even calling your mom.
The rest of the album follows suit, blending traditional carols with fresh arrangements. Tracks like “Silent Night” and “Joy To The World” get the gospel treatment without losing their original magic. Credit goes to the producers and arrangers—they clearly knew how to balance reverence with creativity.
What sticks out most about A Contemporary Gospel Christmas isn’t just its music; it’s the heart behind it. You can tell everyone involved poured love into this project. From Kevin Majeski’s art direction to Todd Tufts’ illustrations, every detail feels intentional. Even Don Boyer, listed as executive producer, probably had a hand in keeping the vibe authentic. These aren’t just songs—they’re stories told through sound.
So yeah, this album’s a gem. But here’s the kicker: listening to it made me realize something weird. Most holiday albums try too hard to be perfect, but this one doesn’t. Its imperfections—the slight crackle in someone’s voice, the occasional rough edge—are what make it real. In a world obsessed with shiny playlists and algorithmic recommendations, A Contemporary Gospel Christmas reminds us that sometimes, beauty lies in the cracks.
Now excuse me while I hit repeat on “Go, Tell It On The Mountain”… again.
