I’ve always been Jenny Burton’s biggest fan. She’s a gifted vocalist that I’ve worked with now for nearly 40 years. Originally blessed with a powerful alto voice and an amazing soprano belt, I was first struck by her deep sense of improvisation and musicality when she approached a song.

Over the years I’ve watched her conquer many different vocal styles ranging from Gospel to R&B to a gifted interpreter of standards, and even Broadway.

I knew she’d handle Christmas music just fine as well, but then, once again, she went beyond my expectations. This is a woman who, when she sings, just seems to absorb the moment full body and soul and consequently, what comes out is an original interpretation performed by a great singer and most intuitive presence.

Yup, she does it again on this song, I Live The Joy.

I am a most fortunate composer to have had this woman sing my songs over the years.

As to the song, well, it’s just simply what I’ve been doing now since I started this project June 1, 2019. Every working day and then some have simply been filled with the Christmas spirit. It’s been a great ride.

I Live The Joy

Music and Lyrics by Peter Link
Featured on Julia Wade and Friends: A Christmas Album

I live the joy of Christmas
I feel it every day
I keep the Christ in me
Tucked away

And when the mountain comes my way
I climb with him
I feel the joy
I live it
I reach right down inside
To touch the Christ
I live the joy

I live the joy of Christmas
I feel the hope within
I know the rush of life
Under my skin

I feel the angels in the air
They watch over me
They gather ‘round me
They ground me
They remind me of
Just who I am
I live the joy

Joy joy joy joy
I’m livin’ the joy of Christmas
I’m feelin’ it all here inside of me
I’m feelin’ the joy hmmm

Oh it’s joy
Joy joy joy joy
Oh it’s joy
I’m livin’ the joy of Christmas
Livin’ the joy of Christmas
I’m feelin’ it all here inside of me
All here
I’m feelin’ the joy hmmm
Joy

I live the joy
I live the joy of Christmas
I live the joy

You can preview this and other songs from Julia Wade and Friends: A Christmas Album at www.watchfiremusic.com.