About the Song
Albums: Christmas with Daniel (1994), The Christmas Album (2004)
Few voices carry the quiet grace and heartfelt sincerity of Daniel O’Donnell, and in his rendition of “When a Child Is Born,” the beloved Irish singer brings an unmatched tenderness to a timeless Christmas classic. Featured on both his 1994 album Christmas with Daniel and again a decade later on The Christmas Album (2004), this track remains a standout moment of reflection and reverence in his holiday repertoire.
Originally made popular by artists like Johnny Mathis in the 1970s, “When a Child Is Born” is not just a Christmas song—it’s a song of hope, renewal, and peace. The lyrics speak not only of a nativity scene, but of a broader dream: the birth of a child as a symbol of a better world, one filled with possibility and light. It’s a message that resonates deeply, especially during the quiet, contemplative moments of the holiday season.
Daniel O’Donnell delivers this song with a purity that feels almost like a lullaby—his gentle phrasing, soft orchestration, and emotional restraint make the performance deeply personal. He doesn’t over-sing or embellish; instead, he lets the meaning shine, inviting listeners to pause, breathe, and remember the deeper spirit of Christmas.
Whether you’ve known this song for decades or are discovering it through Daniel’s voice for the first time, “When a Child Is Born” offers a beautiful reminder that amid the lights and festivities, the heart of the season lies in quiet miracles, new beginnings, and the enduring power of faith and love.
In the hands of Daniel O’Donnell, this song becomes more than just music—it becomes a heartfelt message, wrapped in warmth, humility, and timeless grace.