U2 - I Believe In Father Christmas (Official Music Video)

[@marklife.ox4]

Reaction from the.late Greg Lake on hearing U2's version.... "I woke up this morning to the sound of my Blackberry vibrating away from my bedside table. With bleary eyes I fumbled with the buttons and saw that an email had just arrived, entitled" U2 Father Christmas? ". I, then clicked on the KZbin URL and started listening to this guitar sound very different and remarkably familiar, and the sound of Bono singing the lyrics to "I Believe In Father Christmas." I was still half asleep and I felt almost like I was dreaming. I suddenly realized that I had just heard! It was really U2 performing the song I had written around 1975. A little later, I went to my recording studio and played it again, listening more carefully this time to how the whole thing had been done. There is a strange thing about cover versions, because usually they are never as good as the original version. However, only occasionally someone has the ability to reach an original interpretation that somehow manage to make it your own. A case in point would be the Joe Cocker version of the Beatles' song "With A Little Help From My Friends" and so it was with the version I was listening to my song recorded by U2. In some ways, "I Believe In Father Christmas" is a very peculiar music. It was never written with the intention of becoming a hit single, but was written, instead, as a track on the album, making quite a serious comment about Christmas has changed from being a celebration of peace on earth and good will to with all the people in a huge and disgusting orgy of shopping. Although the basic song is very simple, the music internal structure is quite complex and contains elements of classical music and popular music, and everything in between. Not an easy song to do a cover, without sounding like you're sucking the original version, but not so good or to do some kind of any arrangement purely for the sake of being different. The smart thing about U2 version is that it can capture both elements, the original and the invention without actually fall to one side or the other. Thus, it is definitely unique. The part of the Edge's guitar is very intelligent and vocal, as always, with Bono, sounds sincere. That's the mark of a great singer. Well done, my plates! It's great music serving for such a worthy cause"

[@swiftusmaximus5651]

Lake" Wow, I love the Royalties"

[@siigull1550]

Thanks U2 for covering such an underated gem of a song by Greg Lake, hopefully more people will learn about him after this

[@dctbass]

Underrated?! Top 3 Xmas pop songs of all time in my book!!

[@gary8306]

Who the fcuk said it's underated dude.

[@teresamcafee2205]

Teresa McAfee Beautiful! The "silver lining?" No disappointment! Genuine and untainted medicine as healing balm to my inward parts. Thank you, too!

[@richardwilton722]

Not forgetting Pete Sinfield who wrote the lyric

[@bigelile07]

Underrated? Number 2 on the UK charts in 75. Still played often on terrestrial radio in the states. 🎄

[@hwcanotabot]

Edge’s guitar and Bono’s vocals just bring out the feeling in this song so much.

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

GOD BLESS U MY FRIEND

[@helenaramos8947]

Te Amo ❤️ Demais ❤️❤️❤️

[@KungfuElephant]

The Edges guitar tone is insane in this song. Absolutely nails it

[@katharinenoble1682]

Because.... The Edge.

[@Massygo]

@@katharinenoble1682that's the sound of the 12string rickenbacher fireglo Charm of a guitar.

[@swiftusmaximus5651]

Huh, that iss Edges tone he plays on everything. The Song is for acoustic guitar

[@ailtonsantiago1873]

Happy christmas u2 fans around the world

[@anarichard5549]

Thanks !!! For you too !!!

[@Muhdah1972]

Merry Christmas to you too 💝

[@ailtonsantiago1873]

@@anarichard5549 🤗🤗 thank you

[@ailtonsantiago1873]

@@Muhdah1972 🤗🤗 thank you

[@patrickOsully]

Thank you. May 2021 bring us all health and a U2 tour to celebrate that health

[@mattstone5789]

Never heard this version. My favourite Christmas song by the late, great Greg Lake. A wonderful tribute.

[@frangulou27]

Neither did I.. What a luminous sound, like bells rattle.. Franck from Paris France

[@paulosantana931]

This band is like a good wine, the more time passes the better it gets. Merry Christmas to the millions of fans

[@ericgibson8796]

Jesus turned water into fine wine.

[@howardarends8309]

What an amazing tribute to my favourite christmas song ever.

[@youtou_13]

Hello all U2 fans around the world. Yeah I love everytime that U2 made an update video. For this cover, I never hear it. I am super excited to watch this video. U2 and especially Bono forever in my heart.

[@kimmessinger4343]

Yes.

[@kimmessinger4343]

They are and will always be one of my favs.

[@pedropagan7811]

Thank you U2. always my best band from 1983.......

[@77advisor]

It’s so cool to find a band like U2 pay respect to such a iconic song!

[@0jany028]

Amazing how U2 can put their sound into a Christmas song and make it sound great.

[@iroulis]

Huh? This is a knockoff of kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5e8ZZVng9itprs

[@0jany028]

@@iroulis So? It is clearly stated in the video description that it is a cover. Not sure what does it have to do with my comment.

[@ansfridaeyowulfsdottir8095]

*_"Amazing how U2 can put their sound into a Christmas song and make it sound great."_* They are putting their sound into a song that was already truly great. OK, for a cover. Not on my _"Cover to Cover"_ list of songs that are just as good, if not better, than the original. {:o:O:}

[@alvinallim]

Why aren't there anymore views and likes for U2's rendition of this song? They did an amazing job. Well done U2!

[@selenesimonson9930]

Probably because we heard it years ago? I love it!!💗💗

[@benoitdevroye945]

I wish a merry Christmas time to all fan's U2 in the world from Belgium. Take care of you.

[@sluggieify]

Happy Christmas from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@kimmessinger4343]

You too.

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

GOD BLESS U MY FRIEND FROM TOLEDO OHIO

[@dianehollaway2236]

Love this song it's so beautiful and I love U2 they are the best band ever, Diane Hollaway.

[@jubadzejubadze6127]

Thank u, friend!!! Merry Christmas 2 u from Volgograd,Russia. With Love and Peace!!!

[@helensmith1710]

Why am I only just hearing this now !! ❤ Amazing I love this song and so heart felt U2 sang this too . Just wow

[@StarRiderMoon]

Thanks U2

[@Timbo318]

Absolutely amazing. Truly beautiful and fills me with the spirit of Christmas.

[@matteofirpo7892]

I wish to all fans of u2 a Merry Christmas and stay safe, and i hope to all of you that the 2021 will be magic. Ciao

[@leylaaliyeva28.12]

Amin 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@diaanvantongelen1678]

Thanks 🙏

[@zarinaalborti4761]

Buon Natale!

[@matthiasmoeser2652]

For you and specially all people in Italia, my second home place... Ciao and buon Natale! Da Germania

[@edinsonlacerda777]

For all..tanks Very much

[@user-vv7og1gt7t]

Great song and much needed at this time, whether it’s Christmas or not, we need peace and change in our earth 🙏

[@mastermelo2647]

Peace and Love, for World. Merry Cristhimas. For ALL. 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@180623528]

Great rendition of Greg Lakes masterpiece!! so simple but so profound. If you get the lyrics then you will understand the song. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!!

[@matjaz6745]

Merry Christmas ... to all ... U2 .... fans .... from Slovenia

[@RobertF-]

Thanks. Merry Christmas to U...2

[@bredaobrennan9993]

Merry Christmas from the home of U2. I saw them in restaurants in the early 90's, they were famous worldwide, I was a few years younger than them, sitting at the next table. I was so excited. In Ireland, we don't ask for autographs, we let stars live their lives. I so wanted to talk to them, but it would not be acceptable. I feel that this is right, okay when they are performing, not in their personal lives. Same with Dolores O'Riordan from The Cranberries, she's from my small city, she always said hello and asked ME how I was, ha ha, again, I was starstruck, I answered, but wish I had talked to her. My friend is her brother's partner now, they met a few months after she passed. It's amazing, as my friend is a music and art tutor. She sings exactly like Dolores, which I told her before she met Brendan, we all were in a music and singing class together, after they met. He was amazed how much like his sister she sang life is strange, it's amazing. God Bless U2 and The Cranberries fans all over the world. We are one ❤

[@bredaobrennan9993]

@@RobertF- Great pun....

[@mackwkm]

Merry Christmas from Virginia

[@joejamaicansoulsambuaga1602]

Merry Christmas from Indonesia to Slovenian ... Peace!

[@jonathanlocke6404]

RIP Greg Lake...

[@geoffreycoulson2039]

For 39 years U2 been my fav band ,for 45 years this has been fav Xmas record ,now they have both met I'm calling this a perfect " musical marriage ".

[@StLProgressive]

I’d never heard this cover before. It’s one of the best they’ve ever done. I’ve been a fan since 1983, loved this song since I was old enough to understand what it meant, lol.

[@damonkeyte9130]

Me too man

[@nancyferranti7690]

Thank You U2 for covering Greg Lakes/ELP ‘s song …. Just found this and is now one of my beautiful ‘keeper’s’ ! For every year and every rememberence !

[@beccylikesmonkeys3270]

This is one of my favourite christmas Song in the entire world. I did not know that U2 made their own version of it. Sure that such a combination can only be awesome. I wish all of you a wonderful christmas time.

[@seanmoloney7797]

One of my all time faves in the world too. U2 did an incredible job making this thier own, especially the Edge whi just transports that riff to another level, and Bono in the last verse. Still, Greg Lake's original can't ever be topped

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

GOD BLESS U MY FRIEND

[@stevieamis2257]

Sheer Class, Sign of a fantastic band Can take a classic and make it their own Great cover 🙌🏻 Long live the mighty U2

[@marcybegay4891]

I would like to thank you for allowing me to post my memories of my late father Harry Begay. My dad, my world, my hero & my savior passed away on July 1, 2020. He loved Christmas so much so I dedicate this beautiful song. 💖💋💔RIP daddy.

[@WeAreAlienBand]

Maybe your papa would have liked my version? I recorded it for everyone this year, because it's been so hard Anyway, hope it helps, x kzbin.info/www/bejne/qImrn6J-qatlebs Merry christmas x

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

We luv u Marcy

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

Pj from Toledo Ohio. Larry Mullen Jr is my favorite but god bless you all that have had to pull through a personal loss.

[@marcybegay4891]

@@WeAreAlienBand beautiful. thank you. 💜

[@marcybegay4891]

@@parkjamesshaw3189 thank you. ❤️

[@AnaFlavia-ns5bw]

I'LOVE U2

[@yevvgor]

I wish a brand New Year without any viruses, just pure happiness and enjoying each other face to face. For all of us.

[@coexist6793]

メリークリスマス Happy Christmas ALL U2 FANS From Japan🇯🇵 ありがとう Thank you U2

[@ozzlss]

I listen to this song every year.

[@stevencable39]

Is this song one they have sang and recorded in the past before?

[@sergiypavlyuchenko9961]

@@stevencable39 yes, this song was recorded in 2008 exclusively for RED campaign and released with this video on their website

[@mysticedge4]

I like Baby Please come home by U2

[@irenesophie4023]

me too

[@to_meet_virginia2257]

Same.

[@nicolasaguirre7299]

Merry Christmas to all, from Argentina!

[@2ZZGE100]

Love how this song is all about The Edge taking center stage.

[@ignacioriveras9576]

A great band covering another great band

[@brendalee1619]

Ok I changed my comment after listening to him say he saw the Israelite! Amen, Christ is the reason for Christmas!

[@alexzupan4790]

RIH Greg Lake ♥️ My favorite Christmas song.

[@davidcampbell3616]

Great cover version to a great song well done u2

[@markherron1407]

Bono is 9 of Diamonds ♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Happy Birthday to Bono of U2 Blessings and HUGS and Merry Christmas 👑💜

[@gingerology]

Greg Lake was a 10♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦

[@Criminal_Mind091]

I woke up this morning to the sound of my Blackberry bleating away on my bedside table. With bleary eyes I fumbled with the buttons and saw that an email had just come in entitled “U2 Father Christmas?” I then clicked on the KZbin URL and started hearing this very distinctive and remarkably familiar guitar sound and the sound of Bono singing the words to “I Believe in Father Christmas.” I was still half asleep and it felt almost as if I was dreaming. All of a sudden I realised what I had just heard! It was indeed U2 playing the song I had written was back in 1975. A little later on, I went down into my recording studio and played it once again, listening more carefully this time to how the whole thing had been performed. There is a strange thing about most cover songs in that they are usually never as good as the original version. However, just occasionally someone has the ability to come up with an original interpretation which they somehow manage to make their own. A case in point would be Joe Cocker’s version of the Beatles song “With a Little Help from My Friends,” and so it was with the version I was now listening to of my song recorded by U2. In some ways, “I Believe in Father Christmas” is a very quirky song. It was never written with the intention of it becoming a hit single but was written, rather, as an album track making quite a serious comment about how Christmas had changed from being a celebration of peace on earth and goodwill to all men, into one huge and disgusting shopping orgy. Although the basic song is very simple, the internal musical structure is actually quite complex and contains elements of classical music and folk music, and just about everything else in-between. It is not an easy song to cover without sounding either as if you were vamping out the original version but not quite as well, or doing some kind of “out there” arrangement purely for the sake of being different. In a way you are sort of damned if you do and damned if you don’t. The clever thing about the U2 version is that it manages to capture both elements, the original and the inventive without really falling on one side or the other and in this way it is definitely unique. The guitar part is very clever and the vocal, as always with Bono, sounds sincere. That is the mark of a great singer. Well done chaps! It is great to see the song serving such a worthy cause. Best, Greg

[@StLProgressive]

That’s pretty incredible. I didn’t know they’d covered this song. How cool that Greg Lake wrote this about his reaction to their cover.

[@alexribeiro4934]

Greg Lake, always a class act! RIP

[@Criminal_Mind091]

@@StLProgressive 😊 my xmas song since 2010

[@Tdog1961]

@@Criminal_Mind091 very diplomatically put Greg.... happy Christmas....where ever you are ❤☃️

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

GOD BLESS U MY FRIEND

[@marinareynolds2678]

Merry Christmas 🎄🫂🤲🤲🤲✊😍 to my beautiful 🤩 U2 - Family 😍

[@visatiesa]

Very warm and emotional song! Thank you so much! 👍

[@kellyb2092]

They do such a good job on this one! I am listening to this wearing the funniest santa hat ever. lol

[@donnagiglio32]

I absolutely love U2 , every song is soooo awesome!!! Great holiday song !!

[@bobwaller1649]

A great cover and a true homage to Greg Lake! Well done U2🙏

[@Akira_Hibiki]

"I wish you a hopeful Christmas/I wish you a brave new year " To all of you out there listening to this, it is my fondest wish for every single one of you. It's Christmas. It's the time for peace and joy. Please remember that.

[@iroulis]

Did you listen to the lyrics? Heaven or Hell, you get what you deserve on Christmas.

[@kluvpeace435]

Merry Christmas Jason. May Peace & Joy be upon you!

[@merlinonline67]

I don't do Christmas songs except the original by Greg Lake which is a such a powerful song, I love this version, it is powerful in a different way to the original

[@lucasharris5727]

Wow this is amazing! A thanks to U2

[@Thescooterman64]

Greg lake would be proud. Quality.

[@davidgeremia3882]

Always a pleasure listening to my favourite band. I never get tired of them.

[@ruthmedinagutierrez7763]

Thanks a lot U2 for this amazing song , Merry Christmas to everybody, greetings from Perú.

[@siigull1550]

This is actually a cover, the original was made by Greg Lake, how ever this is still pretty good

[@boomerbobable]

This should be the 2023 official Christmas song with everything going on in the world.

[@lelani9251]

Merry Christmas Beautiful World!! This song changes your perspective with it's dreamy sound.

[@christiansan4124]

Merry christmas for everyone!

[@malcolmstirling9521]

Merry Christmas from 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@rosalbacecere6895]

Siete il complesso più amato dalla nostra famigli a. Anche il nipotino di 4 mesi a sentire questo pezzo si rilassa. Grazie

[@3dgdesignservices295]

Stil enjoying this video 12 years on... love cranking it up loud every Christmas!

[@martintroy371]

Jaysus it's April and this is just brilliant! Rickenbacker brilliance!!!~

[@stephmalo4283]

Great version by U2! One of my favorite band & Christmas song!

[@stephenhenion8304]

Tip of the Hat to U2..💥💥💥

[@martinjones2799]

No where as powerful as the original version by Greg Lake. No strings, no choirs, no guts!

[@gingerology]

Damn right, Bono's voice is a dull drone by comparison.

[@bksagar7440]

HAPPY*CHRISTMAS !!! OM*NAMO*SHIVAYA !!! OM*SHANTI*SHANTI*SHANTI....

[@Wolverines77]

I was not sure about this cover when I hit the play icon. I really like it and I listen to the ELP version 3 or more times a day during the Holiday season. This will definitely be in my Christmas play list from today going forward... Merry Christmas everyone!!!

[@amycondle3725]

What a Joyfull Holiday with Music and U and Christmas Lights and any Light of Jesus!

[@mischnatalia400]

I wish U2 so much believer all over the world :) Love from Hungary

[@colin...101]

Greg made possibly the greatest unsung Christmas song ever... no. U2 The biggest band in the world just covered it.... amazing

[@paliki]

These four guys are unbelievable. Another great musical arrangement. Another emotional peak. ❤️ Happy Christmas to you all.

[@williamerlewein3983]

Emerson Lake and Palmer we're unbelievable . Nothing against you too

[@wandafischetti1186]

wish all the Christmas a beautiful happy time to U2 family! love

[@irenesophie4023]

Every time I hear U2's Version , i must crying. So wonderful, love it 😍♥️♥️

[@marlenesullivan3113]

U2 & THE WORLD MERRY XMAS😎🎸🎸😀

[@a1lucy451]

Love love love the song remastered & love my U2 boys! Thank you! 🥰❤

[@JamesGore1547]

Merry Christmas everyone! 🎅🎄🎁

[@StLProgressive]

Love this cover. Edge’s playing is perfection as always. His arrangement fits this song so well. The band’s sound in general makes this an exceptional cover. This song speaks to the dichotomy of what we’re told Christmas should mean and what it actually is, the disillusionment we can feel when seeing Christmas through an adult’s eyes instead of a child’s.

[@MrMoanAlot737]

One of the best cover songs

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

Afuckinmen

[@kristianduff7775]

That guitar is literally singing.

[@sergiowkasztan9554]

I listen the music of u2 and I not tire of dream with his metaphors from 15 years old. I have almost 50 years and folows me everywhere. Thanks for existing, they are fabulous...Merry Christmas people

[@sbauroth]

A great Christmas song made better with even more emotion built in. Bravo U2.

[@renevandertorre6911]

Merry Christmas 2022!!

[@MovieCaveDave]

Ermmm July and i’m just chillin blasting this crazy ass cover but THE very best Rock & Roll band ever, Bono’s voice is unbelievably unique and his style has no equal. Merry Christmas one and all

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

Afuckinmen mcdave

[@nicolahodges2]

I wish everyone a merry and peaceful Christmas 🎄 🎄🎄🎄🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@marlenesullivan3113]

🌲BEST WISHES TO YOU TOO 🌲

[@SarecaWilson]

This is especially appropriate for this Christmas season 2020-Covid, the election that won’t go away, the division-we needed this gift. Thank you U2!

[@michaelmcguinness4440]

Only u2 could pull this off,fantastic cover.

[@LE672AJ]

Basically a new U2 song for me. I’ve never heard this before :)

[@dunneincrewgear]

It's an old one, 1975!

[@quiet-x4h]

Was this done by Emerson, lake and Palmer....or just one? Can’t believe it’s been so long since it rereleased. Beautiful song.

[@ghh712]

@@quiet-x4h It was done by Greg Lake in 1975. It reached No. 2 - held off the top spot by Bohemian Rhapsody!

[@HogarthsAstrophotography]

@@quiet-x4h it was a single by Greg Lake (solo) of ELP

[@StLProgressive]

I hadn’t either. Love it.

[@antonellamazza178]

Bellissima.... per un Natale così particolare quest'anno ci voleva proprio una canzone così bella degli U2

[@debbyvalenca8804]

A melhor música de Natal. Viva U2!

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

Afuckinmen sweetheart

[@karstenreidel5791]

Danke U 2

[@KenTurmel]

Nice to know that Greg decided to put his belief and faith in the Israelite rather than into the "Father Christmas" Santa Claus while he was a teenager when writing this song. I pray that his youthful and wise words will touch the hearts and lives of the teenagers of today, just as they should. Thank you, Mr. Lake, for your great message. God Bless You and Yours, Rest in peace.

[@kathyratino962]

He didn't write this when he was a teenager, and he was not a religious person. Spiritual, but not religious.

[@chrisgraham9203]

I didn't know this existed until just now. And now I will add it to my Christmas list.

[@bobmorrison5636]

Same here

[@awadventures6230]

I've been on a U2 binge.. never got into them when I was growing up. Only listened when it played on the radio. I realize what I've been missing.

[@Massygo]

fan since it all started. But this piece... it is really good and i can cover this... but why the heck was U2 not playing this last X-mass at the sphere??? Song was NEVER played live, as the original song of this cover was played so many times at events.

[@divinerose7645]

It seems just a little more important, this particular season, of this particular year, to express heartfelt wishes, and most sincere hopes, for the coming year to be filled with hope, happiness and joy, health and comfort, peace in your heart, peace of mind, and peace on earth. Blessings To All The U2 Fans!

[@michaelscott3411]

Thank you so much.

[@remedydrums2]

You four have been with me since I was 11 years old. You are my examples of integrity, vision, family and love. Growing up without a father I have always had to remind myself that despite no bigger influence in my life, Bono is not my father. Bono and the remaining trinity are and forever will be my brothers. When it comes to U2, and the life I live, I will always choose "With". I am the father, veteran, musician, lover, artist, and friend to those I have not met because of U2. My heart thanks you with every downbeat. Steve Riley

[@suetaylor-davidson1015]

What a song!

[@MovieCaveDave]

Every year, Bono’s voice, chills down my neck..absolutely perfectly performed, Beautiful

[@m.j.vazquez4720]

In my annual Christmas playlist for the past 3 or 4 years love this version

[@goodgardenersINTL]

Probably the most accurate song written about Christmas

[@malcolmstirling9521]

Yes 👍

[@craigejohnson2490]

U2 always a voice in the wilderness

[@Leprosita80]

I hate Christmas, but I'm here because U2 is playing music. Eternal love for U2. ❤️

[@sheagoff6009]

Why am I just hearing this now? It’s beautiful!!!

[@anatotube4196]

This is the best band, U2 knows send beautiful messages in your musics, especially in this pandemic moment. I desire a hopefull merry christmas to all u2 fans!!

[@parkjamesshaw3189]

AFUCKINMEN

[@anda2129]

Have listened to this every year since its release back in 2008! Great version of a classic track ❤

[@jprevatt]

Soulful, memorable rendition ...was hoping you'd close out 2020 with a meaningful resounding GOODBYE !!! 🎉🎇🎆🎄✨✨🎁 U2 never disappoints! Great cover guys ✊💖🍀🌎

[@marcelnicolas3247]

Hello how are you doing today..

[@jprevatt]

Prayers, for this crazy tragic world we live in, in 2023 🙏🙏🙏💔💔💔💔🎄❄️😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@matthewpollard2843]

If it's "what we deserve" it negates grace. Grace is what we do not deserve, so maybe, U2, as Christians and Bono in particular, a vocal proponent of grace, you might want to rethink the lyrics. God judges you only according to what has been revealed, that is why his grace prevails because only he knows what you'd do if you only knew the truth. I do not live in absolute grace, because the world is broken, but I live in grace because I know if I got what I deserved, I would not be writing this, as I'd most likely be dead, forever. God bless you all, and may none of you get what's yours, may you only get grace.

[@meganclick6002]

I think this is a valid point. They changed some of the lyrics, namely 'they sold me a fairy story till I believed in the Israelite' to 'but I believed in the Israelite', but keeping the ending doesn't exactly match the other changes.

[@matthewpollard2843]

@@meganclick6002 Precisely. I do this all the time myself. largely inspired by groups like U2, I think you have to consider every word, I am all for redeeming such songs by subtle twist, that's good art in my opinion...