About the song
Cliff Richard’s timeless Christmas classic, “Mistletoe and Wine,” is a beloved song that has cemented itself as a staple of the holiday season. Originally released on November 21, 1988, the track became an instant hit, capturing the warmth and spirit of Christmas with its heartfelt lyrics and rich melody. It was featured on his album “Private Collection: 1979–1988” and later included in numerous Christmas compilations, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic holiday songs of all time.
The song’s origins are intriguing. “Mistletoe and Wine” wasn’t originally written for Cliff Richard; it began as part of a 1976 musical called Scraps, a loose adaptation of The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen. The original version had a more somber tone, reflecting on the hardships of poverty during the festive season. However, when Cliff Richard adopted the song, he reworked it into a celebration of Christmas values, emphasizing faith, love, and generosity. His version carries a deeply spiritual undertone, resonating with his own Christian beliefs.
Upon its release, “Mistletoe and Wine” became a cultural phenomenon. It topped the UK Singles Chart for four weeks, marking Richard’s twelfth number-one hit in the UK. The single sold over 750,000 copies in the UK alone, making it the best-selling single of 1988. Its success was a testament to the song’s ability to strike a chord with listeners of all ages, blending a sense of nostalgia with a message of hope and unity.
The lyrics of “Mistletoe and Wine” emphasize the true meaning of Christmas: peace, forgiveness, and sharing. Lines like “A time for living, a time for giving” highlight the essence of the holiday, urging listeners to embrace the season’s spirit. The mention of mistletoe and wine evokes classic imagery of Christmas traditions, while the orchestral arrangement, complete with bells and a choir, adds a touch of grandeur.
Socially, the song had a significant cultural impact. It reinforced the notion of Christmas as a time to reflect on family and faith, appealing to audiences who sought comfort in tradition. For many, it became a soundtrack to festive gatherings and church services, bridging the gap between pop music and spiritual reflection. Its success also bolstered Cliff Richard’s reputation as the “Peter Pan of Pop,” showcasing his ability to adapt and stay relevant across decades.
Today, “Mistletoe and Wine” remains a cherished part of holiday playlists worldwide. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its beautiful melody and evocative lyrics but also in its ability to capture the universal joy of Christmas. Whether played at a bustling holiday party or a quiet family dinner, the song continues to inspire feelings of warmth, togetherness, and goodwill—qualities that define the very essence of the season.
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Lyrics
The child is a king, the carolers singThe old has passed, there’s a new beginningDreams of Santa, dreams of snowFingers numb, faces aglow, it’sChristmas time, mistletoe and wineChildren singing Christian rhymeWith logs on the fire and gifts on the treeA time to rejoice in the good that we seeA time for living, a time for believingA time for trusting, not deceivingLove and laughter and joy ever afterOurs for the taking, just follow the masterChristmas time, mistletoe and wineChildren singing Christian rhymeWith logs on the fire and gifts on the treeA time to rejoice in the good that we seeSilent nightHoly nightIt’s a time for giving, a time for gettingA time for forgiving and for forgettingChristmas is love, Christmas is peaceA time for hating and fighting to ceaseChristmas time (silent night), mistletoe and wine (Holy night)Children singing Christian rhymeWith logs on the fire and gifts on the treeA time to rejoice in the good that we seeChristmas time, mistletoe and wineChildren singing Christian rhymeWith logs on the fire and gifts on the treeA time to rejoice in the good that we seeChristmas time (Christmas time), mistletoe and wineChildren singing Christian rhymeWith logs on the fire and gifts on the treeA time to rejoice in the good that we seeChristmas time (silent night)Mistletoe and wine (Holy night)Children singing Christian rhymeWith logs on the fire and gifts on the treeA time to rejoice in the good that we see