Jennifer Nettles and John Legend Duet ‘O Holy Night’ on ‘CMA Country Christmas’
Wow. Just when you think it's impossible to bring any kind of new life to an age-old Christmas classic, Jennifer Nettles and John Legend go and prove you wrong. The pair teamed up for an absolutely stellar version of 'O Holy Night' on Thursday night's 'CMA Country Christmas' special, proving that a great song and strong singers still win out over all the marketing in the world.
Nobody ever accused Nettles of not being a great singer, and she did not disappoint. Legend was a revelation, sounding a little bit like the late great Nat King Cole in the lower part of his range, but broadcasting with clarity and power in the upper reaches.
Still, the best parts were undoubtedly when the seemingly oddly-matched pair from 'Duets' sang together -- especially when Nettles hit the high notes in "O night di-VINE!" Backed by a simple, very understated arrangement, Nettles and Legend demonstrated that music doesn't have to be choreographed and auto-tuned to be entertaining and effective. Far from it -- they owned the stage through the simple expedient of singing a great song very well.
Watch Jennifer Nettles and John Legend Sing 'O Holy Night'