Johnny Mathis - When a Child Is Born Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who originally composed the melody for 'When a Child Is Born'?

   'When a Child Is Born' uses the melody from the 1970 song 'Tränen lügen nicht' (Tears do not lie) by Michael Holm. The English lyrics were later written by Austrian composer Fred Jay.

2. Did Johnny Mathis' version of 'When a Child Is Born' achieve any notable chart success?

   Yes, Johnny Mathis' version of 'When a Child Is Born' became his sole number one single in the UK Singles Chart, spending three weeks at the top in December 1976 and achieving the coveted Christmas number one slot. It sold 885,000 copies.

3. Are there any specific references to Christmas in the lyrics of 'When a Child Is Born'?

   Despite being considered a Christmas song, 'When a Child Is Born' does not contain any specific references to Christmas in its lyrics.

4. What other artists have recorded versions of 'When a Child Is Born'?

   'When a Child Is Born' has been recorded by several artists including Michael Holm, who first performed it in 1974 with German lyrics, and Boney M., who included it on their hit 1981 Christmas Album. However, Johnny Mathis’ rendition is perhaps the best known.

5. Did Johnny Mathis re-record 'When a Child Is Born' as a duet?

   Yes, Johnny Mathis re-recorded 'When a Child Is Born' as a duet with Gladys Knight & the Pips. This version reached No. 137 on Record World during the Christmas season of 1980 and No. 79 on the UK Singles Chart.