Luther Vandross, O Come All Ye Faithful | Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶

In the 193^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2023), we recollect and reflect on “O Come All Ye Faithful” by Luther Vandross. 

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶! Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re ancient – no fossils 🦴! All genres of music are welcome. In the 193^rd edition of Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 (2023), we recollect and reflect on “O Come All Ye Faithful”, performed by Luther Vandross. 

Who possessed one of the most beautiful, silky smooth voices of all-time? None other than the late, great Luther Vandross.  Throughout an illustrious career, Vandross captivated us with his elegant, expressive, and refined tenor.  On his 1994 Christmas album, This Is Christmas, Vandross concludes with an oft-performed classic, “O Come All Ye Faithful”.  Even though “O Come All Ye Faithful” ranks among the most tried-and-true carols – a sacred carol at that – Vandross captivates with his interpretation.  Supported by choir and a picturesque backdrop, this rendition is nothing short of incredible.

As always, Luther Vandross NEVER sounds as if he forces the issues.  This is something that I personally always admired about him. Vandross sings effortlessly, never over-singing in the least.  Early on, he plays true to the melody, letting his marvelous voice speak volumes.  As “O Come All Ye Faithful” percolates, including a timely key change where the choir handles the ‘lead’, Vandross steps up his game.  Once he reclaims the lead, his vocals are more dynamic and robust. Furthermore, the runs and riffs are far more impressive and looser, yet never overdoes it. How technically sound and moving “O Come All Ye Faithful” are in the hands of the legend gone far too soon are a testament to his musicianship and immense talent.  This is the way you conclude a Christmas album!

🎙 Luther Vandross • 💿 This Is Christmas • 🏷 Sony Music Entertainment • 🗓 1995

Luther Vandross, O Come All Ye Faithful: Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 No. 193 (2023) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Sony Music Entertainment; John Alan Sperry, PIRO via  Pixabay]