“O Holy Night” Guitar Chord Chart & Easy Guitar Tutorial
This O Holy Night guitar chord chart and web page will teach you one of the most classic Christmas songs on guitar. We will cover the easy strumming version of this song, as well as a flatpicking AND fingerpicking version.
If you’re searching for an easy way to play “O Holy Night” on guitar, you’ve come to the right place. This timeless Christmas classic can be beautifully performed using basic chords, making it accessible for beginners and experienced players alike. In this guide, we’ll break down the “O Holy Night” chords and show you a simple approach to mastering this beloved song. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy holiday gathering or just looking to expand your repertoire with seasonal favorites, our step-by-step instructions will help you play “O Holy Night” with confidence and ease. Let’s dive into the chords and start strumming!
O Holy Night Chords:
Strumming Pattern:
O Holy Night uses a 6-8 strumming pattern. Once you learn how to count it, it’s very easy to follow along. It uses downstrokes only, and emphasizes beats 1 and 2.
Pro Tip: Count out loud!
O Holy Night Chords and Lyrics
C C F C
O holy night, the stars are brightly shining;
C C G7 C C
It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth!
C C F C C
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Em B7 Em Em
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
G G C C
A thrill of hope, the weary soul rejoices,
G G C C
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Am Am Em Em Dm Dm Am Am
Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices!
C G C F C G C C
O night divine, O night when Christ was born!
G G C F C G C C
O night, divine, O night o-oh-oh night divine!
C C F C C
Led by the light of faith serenely beaming
C G7 C C
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand
C C F C C
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming
Em B7 Em Em
Here came the wise men from far distant lands
G G C C
The King of Kings is born, the world rejoices
G G C C
In all our trials born to be our friend
Am Am Em Em Dm Dm Am Am
Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices!
C G C F C G C C
O night divine, O night when Christ was born!
G G C F C G C C
O night, divine, O night o-oh-oh night divine!
Who wrote O Holy Night?
“O Holy Night” was originally written by Placide Cappeau, a French poet, in 1843. The music was composed by Adolphe Adam, a French composer, in 1847. The English lyrics were later translated by John Sullivan Dwight, an American minister and music critic, which popularized the song in English-speaking countries.
Famous recordings of O Holy Night:
“O Holy Night” has been recorded by many famous artists across various genres. Here are some of the most notable and widely loved versions:
- Mariah Carey – Her 1994 rendition from the album Merry Christmas is one of the most popular versions, showcasing her powerful vocal range and emotional delivery.
- Celine Dion – Her version, featured on the album These Are Special Times (1998), is a beautiful and operatic interpretation that has become a Christmas favorite.
- Josh Groban – A stunning rendition of the song, recorded for his 2002 album Noël. His rich, classical baritone voice has made it a holiday classic.
- Andrea Bocelli – The renowned Italian tenor has performed “O Holy Night” in various live performances and recordings, adding a powerful operatic touch to the song.
- Nat King Cole – His warm and smooth voice on the version from his The Magic of Christmas album (1960) has made it a timeless classic.
- John Williams & The Boston Pops Orchestra – A beautiful orchestral and choral version, often associated with performances of Christmas in Boston.
- Leona Lewis – The British singer recorded a stunning version of “O Holy Night” on her Christmas, with Love album (2013), receiving praise for her emotive vocals.
- Frank Sinatra – Known for his smooth and distinctive voice, Sinatra’s recording of “O Holy Night” brings his signature style to this classic Christmas carol.
- Bing Crosby – A beloved rendition, Crosby’s version was recorded in the 1940s and is considered one of the classic holiday recordings.
- Patti LaBelle – Her soulful and powerful version is featured on her 1990 album This Christmas. Her emotional performance adds a unique style to the carol.
Each version brings a different style, from operatic and classical to pop and soulful, making “O Holy Night” a versatile and enduring Christmas song.
