Introduction
Weihnachten with a Disco Beat: The History of Boney M.’s “Mary’s Boy Child – Oh My Lord”
While Boney M. is synonymous with infectious disco beats and unforgettable dance anthems, their 1978 single “Mary’s Boy Child – Oh My Lord” offered a surprising twist. This wasn’t just another disco hit; it was a Christmas song with a unique backstory.
Reimagining a Classic:
Boney M.’s “Mary’s Boy Child” wasn’t an original composition. It was a disco-fied cover of a beloved Christmas carol, “Mary’s Boy Child,” originally written and performed by folk singer Harry Belafonte in 1956. Belafonte’s version was a soulful ballad that recounted the nativity story from the Bible, specifically focusing on the birth of Jesus Christ.
Boney M.’s Take:
The German disco group, led by producer Frank Farian, took Belafonte’s melancholic ballad and transformed it into a full-fledged disco celebration. Upbeat tempos, driving rhythms, and the signature Boney M. harmonies breathed new life into the classic carol. The song wasn’t a complete departure from tradition though. Woven into the disco arrangements were the original lyrics, retaining the core message of the nativity story.
A Christmas Mashup:
Interestingly, “Mary’s Boy Child” wasn’t the only song on the single. Boney M. cleverly incorporated a brand new song, “Oh My Lord,” into the mix. “Oh My Lord” served as a bridge between the celebratory disco and the reflective Christmas narrative. Thematic elements of hope, peace, and redemption tied the two songs together, creating a unique Christmas medley.
A Christmas Hit:
Released in 1978, “Mary’s Boy Child – Oh My Lord” became an instant Christmas hit across Europe. It topped charts in several countries and established Boney M. as a versatile group capable of exceeding disco expectations. The song transcended genres, finding a place on dance floors and in living rooms filled with Christmas cheer.
A Lasting Legacy:
“Mary’s Boy Child – Oh My Lord” continues to be a beloved Christmas song. It’s a reminder that the Christmas message of hope and joy can resonate in unexpected ways, even with a disco beat. So, put on your dancing shoes and prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ with a touch of 1970s groove.