Author:  John Wesley Work, Jr.,  1909

This Christmas Carol was written by John Work, a musicologist and the first African-American collector of folk songs and spirituals.  The origins of this song are unknown. It is assumed the lyrics were handed down through an oral tradition.  Mr. Work and his brother Frederick updated the text and composed the tune.  Often sung on Christmas morning, loud and cheerful, declaring the birth of Jesus.

My brothers and I enjoyed singing this song, and stretching out the last word of each verse with a dramatic and playful pause. I also enjoyed the upbeat and happy tune that encouraged hand clapping the beat and smiles all around.  It always brings a smile to my face.

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