What Child is This: A Deep Dive into Pentatonix's Acapella Masterpiece

Hello there, music lovers! Today, we're going to take a look at one of Pentatonix's most beloved songs, What Child is This. If you're an avid fan of this incredible acapella group, you know that they have a knack for turning classic songs into modern masterpieces. So, grab your headphones, get comfortable, and let's dive into the magic of What Child is This. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and what child is this pentatonix.

A Brief Introduction to Pentatonix

Before we delve into What Child is This, let's quickly recap who Pentatonix is. Formed in 2011, this five-member group from Arlington, Texas, is known for their incredible vocal abilities and innovative acapella arrangements. With three Grammy Awards under their belt and over 3 billion views on YouTube, Pentatonix has truly made a mark on the music industry. Now, let's get back to the star of our show: What Child is This.

What Child is This: The Original Carols

What Child is This is a traditional English Christmas carol, first published in 1865. The lyrics are based on a poem written by William C. Dix in 1865, while the tune, Greensleeves, is a traditional English folk melody dating back to the 16th century. The original carol is a beautiful, solemn reflection on the birth of Jesus, with lyrics that delve into the manger scene and the wonder of the infant Jesus.

Pentatonix's Acapella Twist

Pentatonix, known for their unique spin on classic songs, released their version of What Child is This in 2016 as part of their album, A Pentatonix Christmas. Their arrangement is a far cry from the traditional carol, blending elements of gospel, R&B, and even a hint of hip-hop. Let's break down what makes their version so special.

The Vocals

Pentatonix's strength lies in their harmonies, and What Child is This is no exception. The song opens with a haunting, ethereal hum from vocal powerhouse, Kirstin Maldonado, setting the stage for the rest of the group to join in. Scott Hoying's smooth tenor, Mitch Grassi's clear falsetto, Avi Kaplan's rich bass, and Kevin Olusola's beatboxing all come together to create a sound that's both familiar and fresh.

The Arrangement

Pentatonix's arrangement of What Child is This is a masterclass in acapella composition. The song starts slow and somber, with the group's signature close harmonies. As the song progresses, it builds to a powerful, gospel-infused chorus, complete with riffs, runs, and even a rap from Scott Hoying. The arrangement is a testament to the group's ability to take a traditional song and make it their own, without losing the essence of the original.

The Message

Despite the modern twist, Pentatonix stays true to the original carol's message. The lyrics, "What child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary's lap is sleeping? Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping?" are a poignant reminder of the humility and humanity of Jesus' birth. Pentatonix's arrangement, with its powerful harmonies and emotional delivery, only serves to emphasize this message.

The Impact of Pentatonix's Version

Pentatonix's What Child is This has become a modern classic in its own right. The song has been streamed millions of times on Spotify, and the music video, featuring the group performing in a stark, white room, has racked up over 20 million views on YouTube. The song has also been covered by numerous other artists, a testament to its enduring appeal.

But perhaps the most significant impact of Pentatonix's What Child is This is its ability to introduce a new generation to the traditional carol. By putting their unique spin on the song, Pentatonix has made it relevant and accessible to a whole new audience. They've shown that classic songs can be reinvented, that tradition can be celebrated while still being innovative.

Conclusion: The Magic of What Child is This

So there you have it, folks! Pentatonix's What Child is This is more than just a Christmas song. It's a testament to the power of music to bridge generations, to blend tradition with innovation. It's a reminder that even in the humblest of settings, there's room for wonder, for magic. And isn't that what Christmas is all about?

Whether you're a long-time Pentatonix fan or a newcomer to their music, give What Child is This a listen. Let the harmonies wash over you, let the message sink in. And remember, no matter how you celebrate, there's always room for a little bit of magic in your holidays.

Happy listening, and happy holidays!