December 21: The First Noel | David Archuleta

This song comes from the 18th century and possibly earlier. Nobody really knows its origin. Here are some theories:

1. Noel – some scholars think that “noel” is French and means “a shout of joy” at Jesus’ birth.
2. Natalis – some scholars think that this song was derived from the Medieval Latin word “natalis” which means “birth.” This could be why some people say “His natal day.”
3. Novella is another Latin based word which means “news” which could correspond with the idea that the news of Christ’s birth caused great shots of joy.
4. Nowell – some scholars think that this song has simply originated in England by wandering troubadours.

Regardless of its origin, this song has been a Christmas music staple for over 100+ years. In the 1800s village folk would gather outside on Christmas Eve as the Yule log was brought in. Since it was a carol, the churches thought this to be a “popular” song and not a religious song. This song (among others) was considered to be a peasant song and couldn’t be sung in religious Christmas services. It wasn’t until the latter 1800s that the Church of England officially adopted it as a hymn.

This carol portrays the whole nativity story from start to finish. In fact, you need to sing all 6 stanzas to complete the entire event. It’s unfortunate that in many Christmas religious settings all 6 verses are never sung (like the below recording). Click here to see the full 6 stanzas.

Despite not all 6 verses being sung, this arrangement is fantastic! The below recording I recorded in a live interfaith concert in Salt Lake City where DA was performing. The more I listen to this recording the more I love it than the one in his album.

Some things I like about this arrangement:

• I love how when the music starts the images on the screen fit perfectly.
• I really love how he sings the lyrics “to the earth” which is so different than on his album and anywhere else.
• I love how he sings, “Born is the king” in the repeat…notice he motions his hand to add greater emphasis.
• I love how he belts “Hallelujah”
• I get chills listening to this arrangement.
• Notice my wife giggling in the background at the beginning.
• No I didn’t scream…that would just be weird! ;)

The First Noel

The first Noel the angel did say


Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay,


In fields where they lay keeping their sheep


On a cold winter's night that was so deep.

Chorus/Refrain:

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel!


Born is the King of Israel!

They looked up and saw a star


Shining in the East beyond them far,


And to the earth it gave great light,


And so it continued both day and night. Chorus/Refrain