(SPOT.ph) Dubbed the "Father of Philippine Christmas Carols," which he humbly refuses to be called, the master Jose Mari Chan has become an important figure representing our favorite time of the year. Ever youthful and gracious, the OPM veteran never fails to spark joy in our lives and remind us of the true spirit of Christmas. Ever since September hit, the Internet has been teeming with Jose Mari Chan memes. And he's been such a great sport about it, by the way, even getting in on the joke as proven by his recent media appearances and interviews.
Jose Mari Chan's greatest holiday hits like "Christmas In Our Hearts" and "A Perfect Christmas," from his phenomenal 1990 Christmas album (currently the biggest-selling album in the Philippines), can already be heard blasting on mall speakers and playing repeatedly on the radio. But the well-loved fellow has even more holiday tunes worthy of airtime. His second Christmas album, Going Home to Christmas (2012), for example, may not have been as successful as his first effort, but it also contains many gems.
We put the spotlight on some underrated Jose Mari Chan Christmas songs you ought to include in your holiday party playlist:
"Christmas Moments" (feat. Michael Philip Chan, Jose Antonio Chan, Liza Chan-Parpan, and Franco Chan)
Here's a heartwarming family effort that will make you nostalgic. This track features Jose Mari Chan and his children recounting fond holiday memories from different times in their lives. "Christmas Moments" is a sparkly and soothing number to which each member of the family can relate. Plus, the smooth blending of their voices is proof of just how gifted the whole Chan family is!
"Let Love Be the Gift" (feat. Liza Chan-Parpan)
Jose Mari Chan and his daughter Liza team up for "Let Love Be the Gift," which is a dreamy Christmas song complete with an orchestral arrangement and jingling Christmas bells. The tune sounds straight out of a classic Disney fairy tale and comes with a much-needed reminder for all of us: that Christmas can linger all year round if we just choose to offer the gift of love.
"Pagdating ng Pasko"
Nobody does easy listening better than Jose Mari Chan. His Tagalog offering "Pagdating ng Pasko" is a relaxing tune effortlessly describing Pinoy Christmas—from visiting our grandparents to exchanging gifts and reconciling differences. The instrumentation gives off a pretty retro vibe, while the children’s vocals add a more endearing element.
"Christmas Anyway" (feat. Hanna Flores)
"Christmas Anyway," with lyrics by Joel Trinidad and music by Jose Mari Chan, sung by Hanna Flores, is a poignant holiday song that delves deep into what's really important during the season. While the lights, sounds, and spectacle are a delight during Christmas, it's really being close to our loved ones that matters. Flores' clean and crisp vocals add warmth and sincerity to the thoughtful lyrics.
"A Child Again at Christmas"
They say Christmas is really all about the children. In this guitar-led track, Jose Mari Chan croons about feeling like a kid again every Christmas. An absolute feel-good masterpiece, "A Child Again at Christmas" gives us license to revisit our youthful innocence. Jose Mari Chan's playful vocals and the exquisite arrangement are sure to stick with you.
"It Is the Lord"
For something solemn, listen to "It Is the Lord." This hopeful song, lovingly delivered by Jose Mari Chan, will wash away all your troubles and bring you hope. Not everyone is happy during Christmas, as some of us may have our struggles. Let this soaring track inspire you to conquer them all.
"Song of the Firefly" (feat. Ramona Isabel Buñag Chan)
Jose Mari Chan performs a duet with his granddaughter Ramona Isabel Buñag Chan in “Song of the Firefly.” The simple folk-inspired arrangement allows the sweet vocals of the two Chans to shine through. It’s a ditty both young and old listeners can appreciate.
"Pinoy Na Krismas" (feat. The Company)
Sung by The Company, with lyrics by Ogie Alcasid and music by Jose Mari Chan, the joyful “Pinoy Na Krismas” perfectly captures all the festivities of a typical Filipino Christmas celebration. This song will make you crave lechon and bibingka while getting you all excited for your upcoming family reunions.
"December 25" (feat. Cris Villonco)
Cris Villonco lends her sweet vocals to Jose Mari Chan’s "December 25," an upbeat Christmas anthem that celebrates the coming of the Savior. The powerful choir backup adds to the merry mood of the song, so you can count on this one to cheer you up when you’re feeling the holiday blues.
"A Christmas Song for You"
This holiday love song will make your heart flutter and cause you to long for your S.O. “A Christmas Song for You” is about a love that has stood the test of time. It features a jazzy groove to which you and your boo can slow dance.
