Little Big Town, the beloved country-pop group known for their unique vocal chemistry, is celebrating their 25th anniversary with style, launching not just their first Christmas album but also their inaugural prime-time holiday special, "Little Big Town's Christmas at the Opry." Set against the iconic backdrop of the Grand Ole Opry, this two-hour special is airing on NBC and features performances from several high-profile guests.
Fans will witness charming performances from fellow artists like Dan + Shay, Josh Groban, Kelsea Ballerini, and Kirk Franklin, who join Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Kimberly Schlapman, and Jimi Westbrook on stage. This spirited event, aptly structured to mirror the joy of Christmas, showcases both classic and new holiday music, drawing audiences to the magic of Nashville during the festive season.
"We are simply beside ourselves to announce...that we will host our own NBC Holiday Special at the prestigious Grand Ole Opry House. This is an incredible honor for us, and we are beyond thrilled to share this special evening with viewers and fans across the country," expressed the group when announcing the special.
The Christmas album, titled "The Christmas Record," adds to the excitement. Released earlier this year, it includes several covers, including Merle Haggard's poignant "If We Make It Through December," alongside five original tracks created exclusively for the holiday season. The project marks the first time the quartet has ventured to record Christmas-themed music, something they've desired to do for nearly 25 years.
Reflecting on their long-standing dream, Fairchild said, "We’ve been singing Christmas music for a long time. It’s something we’ve wanted to do for almost 25 years, but making other studio records, touring, and kids all happened.” The warmth associated with holiday music came alive for the group, particularly during their recent recording process, as they found themselves immersed in the festive ambiance of producer Dave Cobb's studio, which was decorated with Christmas trees and lights, perfect for encapsulating the spirit of the season.
Little Big Town's musical legacy is punctuated by their commitment to harmony. The quartet's dynamic has remained consistent since their inception, with the same four voices blending perfectly to produce unmatched harmonies. Fairchild remarked, "We knew if we wanted to have a long career, we would have to have an identifiable sound from the harmonies," emphasizing their desire to create something unique within country music, similar to other legendary groups.
Despite facing uncertainties early on, the ensemble has been able to carve out their niche, providing melodies steeped in genuine emotion and artistry. Their earlier work, particularly their 2005 breakout album "The Road to Here," laid the foundation for their blossoming careers, showcasing their knack for storytelling through their music.
"It was the most honest, it translated with kind of emotion and importance," Fairchild noted, illustrating their ability to connect with audiences through their sincerity. They’ve consistently evolved artistically, producing chart-topping hits such as "Girl Crush" and "Better Man" throughout their career.
Now, as they step onto the stage for their Christmas special, excitement buzzes not just for their performances but also because of the nostalgia and joy Christmas music brings. "This Christmas special feels like each of us has brought something special to the table with each song, which makes every performance feel like home," said Schlapman, capturing the essence of their mission this holiday season.
With the special’s premiere set for December 16 at 8 PM ET, there’s much anticipation about what holiday surprises await the audience, especially with their carefully curated guest list. Viewers can also experience the special later via streaming on Peacock, ensuring the holiday spirit remains alive long after its initial broadcast.
The holiday event is also steeped in meaningful tradition. For years, Little Big Town has hosted charity events during the Christmas season, focusing on educational initiatives within Tennessee. They cherish the relationships built throughout their career, which add to the festive experience they bring to their performances.
With undeniable warmth and exuberance, the ensemble's camaraderie resonates through their performances as they celebrate Christmas with their audience live at the Grand Ole Opry. The heartwarming moments shared with fellow entertainers during special events reflect the true spirit of the holiday season and reinforce their place within the country music community.
Little Big Town has truly made their mark this year, not only with the release of their highly anticipated album but also through their efforts to host such a grand holiday special. The combined experience of years of hard work, the joy of their musical endeavor, and the exhilarating atmosphere of Christmas undoubtedly blend to create something truly memorable for all who tune in.
From covers of classic Christmas songs to original music, this holiday special captures the essence of togetherness, friendship, and the magic of the season. Little Big Town fans and holiday enthusiasts alike are set for an enchanting evening filled with delightful tunes and heartwarming moments, showcasing why they remain one of the favored acts within the country music scene.
The anticipation is mounting as they prepare for what will be one of the defining moments of their careers: their very first Christmas special. The opportunity to share their music and joy with fans is not just another performance, but rather, it is a celebration of family, both inside and outside the group, as they welcome viewers to be part of their holiday festivities this year. With their vibrant personalities and undeniable talent, Little Big Town’s Christmas at the Opry promises to deliver the holiday cheer fans have come to love.
So mark your calendars for December 16, and get ready to join Little Big Town and their incredible lineup of guests for what is sure to be one unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and heart, centered around the spirit of Christmas.
