Nothing ushers in the magic of the Christmas season like a classic carol. The City Worship band members share their favorite Christmas tune and what it means to them.
(From left) Annabel Soh and Daniel Chew, Teo Poh Heng, Mervyn Lim.
While many Singaporeans have never experienced chestnuts roasting on an open fire or Jack Frost nipping at their noses (unless you count the seemingly sub-zero temperatures at some shopping malls all year round), they will be able to sing (or hum) a Christmas carol—be it the majestic “Joy To The World,” the irresistibly catchy “I Wanna Wish You
A Merry Christmas,” the jazzy “The Christmas Song” or the exuberant “Jingle Bell Rock.”
City News Weekly speaks to the City Worship team members to find out what their favorite tunes of the season are, and why.
Annabel Soh (worship leader)
“My Grown Up Christmas List” is one of my favorites. It talks about the healing of the human soul and how nations are at peace from war—that’s the best Christmas wish for anyone who is suffering during the most wonderful time of the year. And that is exactly what I wish that for my family and friends whom I love. Kelly Clarkson’s version of this song—from the musical arrangement to the vocals—really brings out the beauty of this song.
Daniel Chew (drummer)
Although I have no favorite Christmas song, “White Christmas” or “Sleigh Ride” always come to mind when I think of Christmas carols—jazzy, beautifully written and so full of joyous melodies. These songs really bring out the warmth and love of Christmas, perfectly representing the Christ Jesus who is the reason for the season. Whenever I drum to these songs, I always hope that my audience will see snow falling, family dinners with honey baked ham and turkey, kids with loads of presents under the Christmas tree. Yes, I also hope they will see real cards being hand written and sent by snail mail instead of the ever popular e-cards. No matter what they’ve had to go through in 2014, my wish is that they would see light, faith and hope for 2015.
Teo Poh Heng (worship leader/guitarist)
One of my favorite Christmas songs is also the first Christmas song I learned to play on the guitar: “Joy To The World.” It makes me happy whenever I sing it! Jesus is the absolute, perfect joy that one can ever receive, and give to others. Another one that holds a special place in my heart would be “Silent Night.” This song always reminds me of God’s unfailing love and tremendous peace in my life. Even though sometimes life can be very challenging, through Jesus, we can experience peace and rest forevermore.
Mervyn Lim (bassist)
I especially love “O Holy Night”. The lyrics in the chorus really touch me deeply, especially the line: “Fall on your knees/Oh hear the angels’ voices…” To me, that song paints a picture of worship, where everything and everyone focuses on our Savior, exactly like the beautiful image of our entire church holding up the candles during the Candlelight service. The view from stage is amazing! I hope that the audience felt the significance of the lyrics and symbolism of our Candlelight service, which always features this song. May they remember that the birth of Jesus is the light that comes to brighten up the darkness of this world.
