Quick Hit with Cecily Shaber
“O Come O Come, Emmanuel” by Lauren Daigle
December 6, 2022
Thanksgiving is over, and the Christmas season has arrived in earnest. Now is the time to break out the yuletide tunes, including Lauren Daigle’s version of “O Come O Come Emmanuel.”
Daigle’s rendition of this Christmas classic was released in her 2016 album “Behold.” Having released her first album just the year before, “O Come O Come Emmanuel” came out in Daigle’s inaugural period.
In every version of the song, a mournful beat accompanies the expectant lyrics. Daigle’s rendition incorporates a mysterious rhythm held by quiet drums throughout the whole track, and her uniquely hoarse and deliberately slow vocals contribute to the sorrowful tune.
Although it is a Christmas song, the lyrics of “O Come O Come Emmanuel” describe preparation for the day rather than the joy of the day itself. The subject of the lyrics is ancient Israel mourning in exile, awaiting the coming of the world’s savior.
Listen to “O Come O Come Emmanuel” on any music streaming service to set the Advent mood.