A Song Carried Through Winter Light: Revisiting “Go Tell It on the Mountain” by Josh Turner
Winter had quietly settled across the southern hills, bringing with it a hush that softened the world. Though Christmas Eve had not yet arrived, the season carried its familiar glow. Homes lit their windows against the early dusk, and the scent of pine drifted through cold air. Within this calm, Josh Turner released his rendition of “Go Tell It on the Mountain” as part of his 2021 Christmas album King Size Manger, a project that honored the traditions he grew up with.
The song itself is far older than any modern recording. “Go Tell It on the Mountain” is a traditional African American spiritual, first documented in the late 1800s and later popularized by the Fisk Jubilee Singers. Over generations, it has been recorded by countless artists, including Mahalia Jackson, Dolly Parton, and The Staple Singers. Each version carries the weight of its history, telling a story of faith, perseverance, and joyful proclamation.
Josh Turner approached the hymn with reverence. His deep baritone, long celebrated for its warmth and clarity, gave the spiritual a grounded presence while staying true to its roots. Turner had grown up surrounded by gospel influences, and King Size Manger was his first full Christmas album—a place where he could blend the sounds of traditional hymns with the country sensibilities that define his career. His rendition of “Go Tell It on the Mountain” reflects that balance, respecting the song’s legacy while offering a voice unmistakably his own.
The choice to include this spiritual was not accidental. In interviews surrounding the album, Turner often spoke about wanting the project to reflect both his faith and the music that shaped him. “Go Tell It on the Mountain” fits naturally into that vision. Its message of joyous announcement, of bringing good news to every hillside, aligns with the themes of celebration and gratitude that run through his holiday collection.
Musically, his version leans into simplicity. Acoustic textures support the melody, allowing the lyrics to shine. Turner’s voice does not overpower the hymn; instead, it carries it with a quiet strength, inviting listeners to experience the familiar words with renewed clarity. Unlike the more theatrical Christmas songs often heard in December, this one stands as a reminder of deeper meaning, a spiritual rooted in history and resilience.
As winter days shorten and the glow of Christmas approaches, Turner’s rendition settles into the season with gentle assurance. It connects generations, honoring those who first sang it in hardship while offering comfort to listeners today. The song becomes a bridge between past and present, between tradition and personal interpretation.
A hymn carried through time.
A message of enduring faith.
A voice reminding us why these songs still matter.