We Three Kings - A Christmas Offering

I have thus far released two versions of my new recording, "We Three Kings", out on social media. First I put one out there on Soundcloud which is this one:





This is also the version I have sent to ChristmasSongsRadio.com and is currently on their playlist. After listening many times to this version I went back and touched up a few things and remixed it. This 2nd mix I uploaded to YouTube a couple of days ago, although it is a fold-down mono version. Here it is:




To the average ear both mixes will sound nearly identical. Perhaps even to most listeners. But there are some subtle differences.

So why did I make a fold-down mono version for YouTube? Because it was quick and easy and gives it more of a vintage vibe. The way I arranged the song already gives it a 60's/70's feel. Putting a mono version out there adds to it. But it's not a true mono mix. Will I create a dedicated mono mix? Probably not. Making a stereo mix is hard enough and, as is usually the case, I'm still not completely satisfied with either one of the two I have already released. Still have a few tweaks to make. When I do decide to officially release a Christmas album I want only the best mixes & masters on it.

But that's what I have for now. I'd still like to get a new Christmas song written and recorded within the next two weeks. I guess it's possible but I don't know if it's probable. Fortunately, the last two original Christmas songs I wrote did not take very much time to spill out onto paper.

Or should I record another cover of a classic? That would probably take less time. I'm not sure what I'll do at the moment. I was actually planning to do a version of "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" for this year. Problem is I was intending to mimic Kenny Burrell's 1966 version too closely. Not so much the arrangement and instrumentation used on his but the slower note phrasing and 3/8 time feel. I also considered making a medley out of this song and "We Three Kings." Finally, I decided on "We Three Kings" with a 4/4 time signature instead of its original 3/8 time.

Stay tuned for news of the next endeavor!