No one does Christmas quite like LeAnn Rimes. Wrapped in shimmering renditions of timeless classics, her own festive flair and a set of glowing originals from her upcoming seasonal musical, ’32 Hooves’, this December treat – ‘Greatest Hits Christmas’ – also glitters with all-star collaborations, including Hollywood star Luke Evans, soul hit-maker Aloe Blacc and Gavin DeGraw.
Through the tinsel, mistletoe, and sleigh-bell tinged soundscapes, ‘Greatest Hits Christmas’ is destined to be a modern holiday staple. Shining with warmth and nostalgia is her 1997 single, ‘Put A Little Holiday In Your Heart,’ led by her trademark Americana touch and incredible soulful vocals. Throughout, she sheds light on the joy of the season – from the playful, traditional take on ‘Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree’ to the jazzy reimagining of ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’, there’s both a fresh and classic take to delve into.
Standout track, ‘There’s No Such Thing’ is a rush of cinematic joy – complemented by a cheeky, theatrical sound. An ode to holiday skeptics and classic Scrooge-like behaviour, the track’s glitzy glamour mixed with jaunty humour feels like a glowing stage show wrapped into a song. Luke Evans lends his trademark Broadway vocals, complementing Rimes on the catchy hook, “There’s no such thing as Christmas”.
There are also moments of melancholy and contemplation that the season can often bring – providing a soundtrack for those who struggle emotionally. The stripped-back version of Joni Mitchell’s ‘River’ feels like a comforting lullaby for those who may be dealing with loss and loneliness – soothed by her wise, reflective vocal delivery. A powerful interpretation of John Lennon’s, ‘Happy Xmas (War Is Over)’ feels more relevant than ever, elevating the emotional resonance with a stirring piano-based cover.
For Rimes, Christmas is not just about the wonderful music it delivers. ‘Greatest Hits Christmas’ is a love letter to the time, and a musical reminder to cherish it each year. “Christmas has always been a sacred season for me,” she shared. “Not just a time of year, but a space I return to in my heart. This collection is a reflection of the memories, the prayers, the playfulness, and the spirit I’ve poured into this season again and again”.
With its wide emotional range, dash of playfulness, and broad range of genres, the album is certainly a fitting portrait for the star’s current stage of life, shining like ornaments or fairy lights with its warmth and timelessness. With over 48 million albums sold worldwide, eight GRAMMY® nominations, and two wins to her name, she continues to evolve as a defining voice in music – this time with seasonal charm.
Stream and download ‘Greatest Hits Christmas’ here.
