Valerie Smith also has a special Christmas release, a lovely cover of The Louvin Brothers’ Shut In At Christmas, also know as Shut In Prayer.
This one really tugs at the heartstrings, as it tells a story of being unable to get out during the Christmas season while there is so much joyous activity “out there” in the world.
Using a simple arrangement, much as The Louvins did, Valerie conveys this timeless message of charity and kindness without ostentation. It is especially powerful when you consider the time in which it was written (1950s), when being homebound didn’t offer the ease of communication and diversion that it does today.
Still, after listening, you may find yourself planning a visit or making a call to family and friends who may miss out on next week’s holiday cheer.
Shut In At Christmas is available for download purchase from Smith’s web site, and in iTunes.
