Chiming into the near-future festivities and ahead of its rerelease, “Christmas in the Heart” remains a fascinating departure from Dylan’s usual folk and rock repertoire, marking a joyful and spirited celebration of the holiday season. Released in 2009, this unexpected yet charming album showcases Dylan’s distinctive raspy voice on heartfelt interpretations of classic Christmas tunes. Dylan transforms these well-known songs into something entirely his own, infusing them with a blend of sincerity and whimsy that captivates listeners.
What makes “Christmas in the Heart” truly special is the genuine warmth that emanates from Dylan’s renditions of beloved holiday classics, carols and hymns. Tracks like “Winter Wonderland,” “Little Drummer Boy” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” are imbued with Dylan’s unmistakable voice and sensibility, bringing fresh perspectives to these timeless songs. Dylan’s rendition of “Must Be Santa” is a particular favorite among fans, beloved both for its polka and klezmer sounds and for director Nash Edgerton’s roisterous music video.
All proceeds from the album were directed to various charitable organizations dedicated to alleviating hunger and homelessness, making the project not only a celebration of the season but also a gesture of goodwill and generosity. “Christmas in the Heart” stands as a testament to Dylan’s ability to reinvent himself while staying true to the essence of the songs, creating a heartfelt and enduring contribution to the holiday music canon. Watch as Bob Dylan Center Director Steven Jenkins shares his thoughts on the unforgettable album, musician Kurt Vile talks about releasing a cover of “Must Be Santa” on his latest EP and artist Jeff Scher takes us through his creative journey of crafting thousands of illustrations for the beautifully animated “Little Drummer Boy” music video.”
