Cliff Richard’S Favorite Hymn — And How It Shaped His Christmas Performances

April 1, 2025

Cliff Richard, the legendary British singer, always held a special place in his heart for the hymn “Once in Royal David’s City.” The soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics spoke to him in ways that few songs could. Growing up, he often listened to this hymn during Christmas services, where he’d feel the warmth of the holiday spirit wrap around him like a cozy blanket. The hymn reminded him of childhood memories filled with family gatherings, laughter, and a sense of wonder. It was a time when hope and joy filled the air, and he knew he wanted to share that feeling through his music.

As Cliff rose to fame in the 1950s, he carried this cherished hymn with him. Each Christmas season, Cliff made it a tradition to perform “Once in Royal David’s City” during his festive concerts. With each note, he felt like he was creating a bridge between his audience and the true meaning of Christmas. He believed that music had the power to uplift and inspire, and this hymn encapsulated everything he loved about the holiday: love, peace, and the joy of togetherness. The way the audience would light up with emotion as he sang brought him an indescribable joy, filling his heart with purpose.

However, it wasn’t always easy for Cliff. There were times when he faced challenges, like the pressures of fame and the inevitable doubts that came with it. Yet, every time he performed this beloved hymn, it reignited a flame of resilience within him. The gentle rise and fall of the melody reminded him to be strong and stay true to himself, despite what others thought. He found solace in the hymn’s message of hope, and it became a source of inspiration during difficult times. With every performance, he felt a renewed sense of determination to share his passion and spread the joy of music.

Over the years, Cliff’s performances of “Once in Royal David’s City” grew in significance. Fans from all walks of life would gather to hear him sing, united by the spirit of Christmas and the universal message of the hymn. As he stood on stage, looking out at the sea of smiling faces, he felt a deep connection with them, almost as if they were all part of one big family. The hymn transformed each concert into a celebration of love and togetherness, leaving hearts filled with hope and joy, echoing long after the last note faded away.

One special Christmas, as Cliff stood on stage singing that hymn, he noticed a young girl in the front row. Her eyes sparkled with delight, and her smile radiated pure happiness. In that moment, he realized that the power of music wasn’t just about fame or recognition; it was about touching lives and creating lasting memories. That performance became one of his most cherished moments, not only for his rich musical legacy but for the joy he brought to others. Through this hymn, Cliff Richard not only celebrated Christmas but also found his calling — to inspire, uplift, and spread love through his music for generations to come.