Listen to the album
Why it matters
A collection of holiday standards sung with full sincerity, it surprised many listeners. Dylan gave all his royalties from it to charities fighting hunger.
Christmas in the Heart came out in 2009, made with his touring musicians and guests including David Hidalgo of Los Lobos. It is a full holiday record of carols, pop standards and novelty songs, arranged in the warm style of the 1950s and early 1960s, with backing choirs, steel guitar and accordion. Dylan sings in his rough late voice, which made the earnest arrangements sound strange to some ears, and "Must Be Santa" became a rowdy polka with a comic video. Many wondered whether it was a joke. In interviews Dylan said plainly that it was not, and that he sang the songs as a believer and a fan of the music. Reaction ranged from delight to bafflement. All of his royalties went to hunger charities, including Feeding America in the United States, Crisis in Britain and the United Nations World Food Programme, which gave it an appeal beyond the music itself.
Track list · 15 songs
A cheerful announcement that Santa is on his way down the road with gifts for everyone.
faith
Its page ›News of a newborn child passes from the night wind to a lamb, a shepherd and a king, until it reaches everyone.
faith · war
Its page ›A couple walks through a snowy landscape, building a snowman and dreaming happily about their future together.
love
Its page ›Angels announce the birth of Christ and call on every nation to join their song of praise.
faith
Its page ›Someone far away promises to come home for the holiday, then admits it may only happen in a dream.
the road · loss · war
Its page ›A poor boy with nothing to give the newborn Christ offers the only gift he has: his drumming.
faith
Its page ›The faithful are invited to come to Bethlehem, see the newborn Christ and worship him.
faith
Its page ›A wish that this Christmas may be bright, with troubles set aside and friends gathered close again.
time · love
Its page ›Busy city streets fill with shoppers, lights and the sound of bells as Christmas draws near.
America
Its page ›The singer invites someone to spend Christmas on a tropical island, swapping snow for sunshine and palm trees.
love
Its page ›Familiar winter comforts and children's excitement make up a simple, warm wish for a merry Christmas.
time
Its page ›
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