Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Michelle Williams

If you purchase a holiday album by any of your favourite artists, there is one song that is almost guaranteed to appear on its track list. The classic ‘O Holy Night’ has long been recognised as one of the most popular Christmas tunes as well as one of the  most covered songs of all time, and it has taken over this week’s Way Back Wednesday.

From Celine Dion to Yolanda Adams, thousands of performers from around the globe have covered ‘O Holy Night’. Of course, it is so widely recognised as the standard Christmas standard that it is no surprise that artists tackle the song as they seek to be respected as serious vocalists and enthusiasts of the season.

Without any further delay, listen to some of the most popular renditions of ‘O Holy Night’ below:

Celine Dion

Christina Aguilera

Donna Summer

Mariah Carey

Michelle Williams

Nat King Cole

Patti LaBelle

Whitney Houston

Yolanda Adams 

Without question, Mariah Carey’s ’O Holy Night’ is by far the most vocally impressive version but there have been several brilliant interpretations of this song by other acts. Patti LaBelle’s Gospel take is quite enjoyable, especially given the force of her massive voice, and Yolanda Adams’ recording is phenomenal.

On the other hand, Christina Aguilera’s version of ‘O Holy Night’ was a forced attempt at sounding like a season diva and the overload of runs made it rather unbearable. It’s amazing that more than a decade since she first performed the song, her singing still hasn’t improved but her voice has surely paid the price. I wonder if she ever listens to her old recordings and wonders if she should have done things differently?

Who performed the best version of ‘O Holy Night’? Vote in our Way Back Wednesday poll and share your opinion!