“When a Child Is Born” is one of Johnny Mathis’s most beloved and iconic songs, especially during the holiday season. Originally adapted from the Italian melody “Soleado” with English lyrics written by Fred Jay, the song gained widespread acclaim when Johnny Mathis recorded it in 1976. It topped the UK Singles Chart during Christmas that year and has since become a seasonal classic.
The Message of the Song
The song conveys a powerful and universal message of hope and renewal. It paints a picture of a world filled with endless possibilities every time a child is born. Its lyrics reflect themes of peace, love, and the transformative power of new life:
“A ray of hope flickers in the sky,
A tiny star lights up way up high…”
The imagery is poetic, and the sentiment is profound, resonating deeply with listeners from all walks of life. The song transcends its seasonal association, making it relevant any time people yearn for optimism and unity.
Johnny Mathis’s Signature Style
Mathis’s rendition of “When a Child Is Born” showcases his ability to imbue each note with deep emotion. His smooth, gentle tenor voice elevates the song’s spiritual quality, turning it into more than just a Christmas tune—it’s a heartfelt prayer for a better world.
The orchestral arrangement, with its soft strings and delicate instrumentation, complements Mathis’s voice perfectly, enhancing the song’s warmth and serenity.
A Song for All Generations
Though recorded nearly five decades ago, “When a Child Is Born” remains as relevant as ever. Its timeless message continues to inspire hope during times of uncertainty. The song has been covered by numerous artists, but Johnny Mathis’s version stands out as the definitive rendition, beloved by fans around the globe.
The Legacy of the Song
“When a Child Is Born” is more than just a song—it’s a reminder of the potential for peace and love in every new beginning. Its universal message has made it a staple of holiday playlists and a cherished favorite for celebrations of life and family.
As the world gathers to celebrate the season, Johnny Mathis’s “When a Child Is Born” invites us to reflect on the promise of a brighter future, one where every child brings the hope of a new dawn.
Lyrics
A ray of hope flickers in the skyA tiny star lights up way up highAll across the land, dawns a brand new mornThis comes to pass when a child is bornA silent wish sails the seven seasThe winds of change whisper in the treesAnd the walls of doubt crumble, tossed and tornThis comes to pass when a child is bornA rosy hue settles all aroundYou’ve got to feel you’re on solid groundFor a spell or two, no one seems forlornThis comes to pass when a child is bornAnd all of this happens because the world is waitingWaiting for one childBlack, white, yellow, no one knowsBut a child that will grow up and turn tears to laughterHate to love, war to peace and everyone to everyone’s neighbourAnd misery and suffering will be words to be forgotten foreverIt’s all a dream, an illusion nowIt must come true, sometime soon somehowAll across the land, dawns a brand new mornThis comes to pass when a child is born
