Christmas carols are joyful songs that people sing during the holiday season to celebrate Christmas.
They are often about the birth of Jesus, winter scenes, or spreading cheer and goodwill. Many carols are sung by groups who go door to door or at special events like church services or school concerts.
With catchy tunes and kind words, carols help bring people together and make the season feel warm and festive.
About the Song
The First Noel is a classic Christmas carol that has been bringing joy to the world since the 1800s is a French-origin carol which was composed in the 13th or 14th century in Cornwall, England.
The carol tells us the tale of Jesus’s birth, from an angel visiting shepherds to the arrival of the three wise men. The lyrics were first published in 1823, and the song gained popularity in the Victorian era.
Full Lyrics of The First Noel
The First Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds
in fields as they lay;
In fields as they lay, keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the east beyond them far,
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night.
And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a king was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went.
This star drew nigh to the northwest,
O’er Bethlehem it took it rest,
And there it did both stop and stay
Right over the place where Jesus lay.
Then entered in those wise men three
Full reverently upon their knee,
and offered there in his presence
Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.
Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord;
That hath made heaven and earth of naught,
And with his blood mankind hath bought.
Similar Carols Like the First Noel
If you loved The First Noel, you’ll surely love these Christmas Carols which have a similar melody and tone , and to join your Christmas playlist this month:
- Silent Night – A gentle and reflective carol known for its peaceful melody and focus on the birth of Christ.
- O Holy Night – Celebrated for its moving lyrics and powerful message about the meaning of Christmas.
- Angels We Have Heard on High – It is the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth, as angels joyfully announce the good news to shepherds, praising Glory to God in the highest.
- It Came Upon the Midnight Clear – Combines poetic lyrics and a serene mood, centered on the angelic message of peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Some Famous Recordings of The First Noel?
Some famous recordings of The First Noel include versions by Boney M., Pentatonix, Carrie Underwood, Nat King Cole, Whitney Houston, Frank Sinatra, and Gabby Barrett.
Is The First Noel a Traditional Hymn or Modern Composition?
It is a traditional English carol which is said to have emerged during the medieval period, likely between the 13th and 14th centuries.
What is the Musical Structure of The First Noel?
The song follows a verse-and-refrain structure, with each verse telling part of the Nativity story and the repeated Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, born is the King of Israel serving as the chorus.
