Last Month of the Year, from Family Christmas Online™I'm told that this song isn't technically a spiritual, but, like many spirituals, it changes tune and even form depending on the preferences of the singer. I have heard two excellent versions, one by Odetta and one by the Staple Singers. The version presented here is probably closer to the Staple Singers' version. The song has also been performed by the Kingston Trio, Chris Isaak, and several Bluegrass groups, and it holds up well to all those varied treatments.To me, the emphasis on "last month of the year" may have metaphorical intent. In a sense (if you trust the church calendar), Jesus came at almost the last possible moment, at the eleventh hour, so to speak. So the song may be considered a reminder that God will move in our lives when it suits Him, not us. On a lighter note, some commentators have pointed out that a "side benefit" of this song is that it is useful in teaching small children the months of the year. If you have more than one performer, especially if you have a chorus of some sort backing up the lead vocal, singing the verse in a question-and-answer format will get you closer to the feeling of the original. Tell me when was Jesus born? (or: "What month was Jesus born in?")
Chorus:
He was born to the Virgin Mary,
Chorus
If you have any corrections or comments you would like to make about this page, please contact me and I will be glad to hear from you. God bless - Paul
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