The melody comes from a traditional Welsh carol “Nos Galan”, a traditional New Year’s Eve ballad. The famous chorus ‘fa la la la la’ may date to the medieval period, while the modern English lyrics were written by Scottish musician Thomas Oliphant in 1862. Originally titled Deck the Hall, this is a Welsh melody that dates back to the 16 th century. The text of the song is based on verses from Luke 2:4-7.

In 1996 it was ranked as the second most popular carol in Britain. Kirkpatrick (1895) and the other by James Ramsey Murray (1887). There are two musical settings commonly assigned with the lyrics, one by William J. This was dispelled for a number of reasons, and a source states the song may have instead been associated with a celebration for the 400 th anniversary of Luther’s birth in 1883.

Originally titled “Luther’s Cradle Song” an anonymous author attributed the song as one Luther wrote for his children. Once rumored to have been authored by theologian Martin Luther, this carol made an early appearance in 1882. Here are nine well known Christmas songs that are in the public domain. When singing along with your favorite carols have you ever thought of the copyright status behind these famous songs? It’s that time of year when Christmas lights are strung and ugly sweaters are worn.

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