Craig Wayne Boyd, ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’ [Listen]

Lyrically, "I'll Be Home for Christmas" is well-known and brief. A great cover relies on a singer's soulful interpretation. Craig Wayne Boyd's interpretation is patient and personal.

The former winner of The Voice stays true to every version you hear on the radio or in department stores this time of year. With an arrangement that could have been borrowed from a dozen previous cover artists, Boyd tells the somewhat sad story:

"Christmas Eve will find me / Where the love light gleams / I'll be home for Christmas /
If only in my dreams," he sings.

Jazzy guitar breaks up the Christmas classic's two halves. An orchestra works in the background before a harp gliss reintroduces Boyd. Only at the end when he says "Merry Christmas y'all" are we reminded this is a country cover.

"I'll be home for Christmas / You can plan on me / Please have snow and mistletoe / And presents under the tree."

Fans of CYB will appreciate his take on a classic, but while it's a strong performance, there's nothing that distinguishes it from many others. That's no reason to enjoy the song any less, however.

Why Fans Will Love It: Fans of Craig Wayne Boyd will enjoy his interpretation of this traditional Christmas song.

Key Lyrics: "I'll be home for Christmas / If only in my dreams."

Did You Know?: In November Boyd said he'll soon release a country single to major radio stations nationwide.

Listen to Craig Wayne Boyd, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”