The Story of Peter, Paul, and Mary Christmas

The iconic folk trio Peter, Paul, and Mary is best known for their chart-topping hits such as “If I Had a Hammer” and “Blowin' in the Wind.” But the band also had a special place in their heart for Christmas music. In the early 1960s, they released an album of holiday tunes that instantly became beloved classics.

For decades, the group has been synonymous with Christmas cheer, crafting timeless seasonal melodies that are still heard today. Let's take a look at the story of Peter, Paul, and Mary's classic Christmas album and explore some of the songs that have become favorites over the years.

The Album: A Christmas Together

In 1964, Peter, Paul and Mary released their first full-length Christmas album, simply titled A Christmas Together. The record included both traditional and original holiday tunes, all of which were performed in the band's unique style. It was an immediate success, reaching the Top 20 on Billboard's album charts and selling more than two million copies.

The album featured several memorable classics, including “Christmas Dinner,” “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)”, and a rendition of the traditional “Sleigh Ride.” It also included Peter, Paul, and Mary's rendition of “The Little Drummer Boy,” which would become one of their most popular songs.

The Little Drummer Boy

The Little Drummer Boy is arguably the most beloved song on the album. Written by Katherine K. Davis, Henry Onorati, and Harry Simeone, it tells the story of a young shepherd boy who brings his drum to the baby Jesus on the night of his birth. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years, but none quite match Peter, Paul, and Mary's version.

The trio plays the song with a light touch, accompanied by gentle acoustic guitar, dulcimer, and autoharp. Their vocal harmonies add to the song's warm and inviting feeling. It's no wonder it has become a beloved holiday standard.

Other Notable Songs

The Little Drummer Boy isn't the only beloved song on the album. Other highlights include “Christmas Dinner,” a tongue-in-cheek ode to the joys of sitting down with family and friends on Christmas Day; and “Do You Hear What I Hear?,” a beautiful retelling of the nativity story. There's also a folk-style rendition of “Silent Night,” a quiet and heartfelt meditation on the true meaning of Christmas.

A Christmas Together stands as one of the greatest holiday albums of all time. It's a timeless reminder of why Peter, Paul, and Mary remain one of the most beloved bands in the world.

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