The traditional religious Christmas carol, "The First Noel" was first published in 1833 when it appeared in "Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern," a collection of seasonal carols gathered by William B. Sandys.
The carol has been covered by artists from just about every style of music. The following list covers the most popular versions.
1. John P. Kee & The New Life Community Choir
Zomba Recording
If John P. Kee & The New Life Community Choir's version of "The First Noel" doesn't move you in places that you weren't sure could move, you need to check your pulse!
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2. Newsong
Reunion Records
The title track to The Christmas Shoes got so much attention, well deserved that it was, that Newsong's phenomenal cover of "The First Noel" didn't get nearly the attention it should have.
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3. Bebe Winans
Hidden Beach/Epic
BeBe Winans used his "inside voice" when he recorded this classic Christmas carol with his sister CeCe in 1993. In his 2003 solo version, he uses every ounce of strength he can throw into it and that powerful voice of his literally soars.
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4. Steve Green
Sparrow Records
Steve Green adds just enough of a modern rock touch to his cover of "The First Noel" to make it heartwarming and perfect for the season.
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5. Randy Travis
Word
Randy Travis takes a classic Christmas carol, pairs it with his classic country sound and we all get blessed by the combination.
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6. Bebe And Cece Winans
Capitol
Delivered with a quiet reverence, BeBe and CeCe build the suspense through the music, making you feel as though you're holding your breath, waiting for the angels to finally say "Born is the King of Israel!"
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7. Third Day
Courtesy of: Provident Music Group
Performed and recorded live, Third Day knocks it out of the park yet again with their cover of "The First Noel."
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8. Aly & AJ
Hollywood Records
Ringing with joy and sincerity, Aly & AJ don't allow themselves to get caught up in the commercial side of Christmas at all with their version of the carol.
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9. Oak Ridge Boys
Capitol Records
The Oak Ridge Boys combined "Away In A Manger," "The First Noel," "Joy To The World" and "Angels We Have Heard On High" for a medley of proportions that only the Oak Ridge Boys could deliver.
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10. Mahalia Jackson
Legacy/Columbia
All power and passion, yet delivered with a subtle touch; that is how Mahalia sang it on her version of "The First Noel."
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