Mary's Boy ChildChristmas Carol LyricsLong time ago in Bethlehem
Hark, now hear the angels sing
Trumpets sound and angels sing
While shepherds watched their flocks by night
Now, Joseph and his wife, Mary
Hark, now hear the angels sing
Trumpets sound and angels sing
By and by, they find a little nook
Long time ago in Bethlehem
Hark, now hear the angels sing
Trumpets sound and angels sing
About This Christmas CarolMary's Boy Child is a heartfelt Christmas song written in 1956 by Jester Hairston, an American composer, actor, and choral conductor known for his rich contributions to both gospel and popular music. Hairston originally wrote the melody for a birthday greeting, but he later reworked it into a Christmas piece at the request of friends. The result was a tender, narrative style carol that follows the Nativity story with a warm, melodic sway. The earliest and most famous recording came from Harry Belafonte in 1956. Belafonte's smooth vocals and gentle calypso influenced arrangement helped lift the song to international success. It went on to become the first Christmas single ever to reach number one on the UK charts. Its distinctive rhythm set it apart from the more traditional carols of the time and gave it instant, memorable appeal. As the years went on, Mary's Boy Child continued to appear in holiday recordings around the world. A later 1978 version by Boney M (see video below) added a more upbeat tempo and dance like groove, introducing the song to a new generation and cementing its place in modern Christmas pop culture. Despite these different styles, the heart of the song remains its clear, gentle retelling of Christ's birth. Loved for its inviting melody and narrative warmth, Mary's Boy Child offers a refreshing blend of cultural and musical influences. It stands as a reminder that Christmas music can be both deeply meaningful and wonderfully diverse. Upbeat Performance Video by Boney M |