Beautiful Night - Lyric Video from 1974 album Paid on the Nail by singer/songwriter Graham Kendrick

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Beautiful Night from 1974 album Paid on the Nail by singer/songwriter Graham Kendrick.

Beautiful Night is a reflective song that captures the wonder and mystery of the nativity. Set against the backdrop of a peaceful yet awe-inspiring night, the lyrics describe the shepherds' amazement as they witness angelic beings announcing the birth of Christ. The song beautifully contrasts the serene image of the newborn Jesus in a manger with the future suffering He will endure, foreshadowed by a crown of thorns.

Through the eyes of Mary, who quietly weeps while pondering the profound destiny of her child, the song evokes a sense of quiet reverence. It speaks of glory and goodwill, offering joy and peace to all, simple and wise alike. Beautiful Night invites listeners to embrace the promise of hope, peace, and transformation, asking them to believe in the beauty and significance of that holy night.

Originally released on the Key Records label, ‘Paid on the Nail’ was Graham’s third album and a landmark in his ministry.

It continued the acoustic/folky style which had been Graham’s hallmark in his earlier recordings but also introduced a wider variety and subtlety of arrangements and other instruments including Peter Roe on the Moog synthesiser. The songs were written while Graham was part of a team ministry called ‘In the name of Jesus’ who engaged in evangelism and church renewal around the UK.

Song lyrics and MP3 download:

https://grahamkendrick.co.uk/beautiful-night-in-the-firelight-waiting-watching/

In the firelight, waiting, watching
through the dark night
When angel voices split the silent night
Who would believe this sight

Eyes of wonder, as angel faces lit a strange light
Shepherds faces hid from glory bright
Who would believe this
Beautiful night?

Glory in the earth and in the skies
Glory in your face and in your eyes
Goodwill to all simple men and wise
Who would believe this
Beautiful night?

In a manger bed, a crown of straw
around a tiny head,
One day He’ll be wearing thorns instead,
Peacefully sleep tonight,
And while the child sleeps, gentle
Mary lays and quietly weeps,
And her sorrow in her heart she keeps;
What does she know this
Beautiful night?

Glory in the earth and in the skies
Glory in your face and in your eyes
Goodwill to all simple men and wise
Who would believe this
Beautiful night?

Joy to the crippled and the blind,
Peace in your and in your mind,
Dancing on the sorrows left behind,
Will you receive this
Beautiful night?
Will you believe this
Beautiful night?

Graham Kendrick
Copyright © 1974 Make Way Music,
www.grahamkendrick.co.uk

Released:
1974 (Key Records)

Producer:
John Pantry

Recorded at:
R G Jones Studios, London and Echo Studios, Eastbourne

Musicians:
Graham Kendrick - Acoustic Guitar
Peter Roe - Moog Synthesiser
Nick Ryan - Bass Guitar
Mike Wade - Drums
Ken Freeman - String Synthesiser