Josh Rosenthal is a man for all seasons, which is why it’s no surprise that he’s released another Christmas album this year called For A Day, which is the culmination of his Villages Suite. This is the follow-up to Saturday’s post where Josh offered BSW readers a chance to save 10% in his online store (read post). Because he’s that kind of guy, Josh also graciously agreed to take part in BSW’s Christmas UnWrapped. Plus, read Josh Rosenthal’s blog for chances to win his merchandise! And this just in–Josh’s song “Renaissance” could appear in the 2010 Possibility Pictures’ movie, Letters to God. Make this happen by voting for “Renaissance” here. Voting will continue through 12/16 and you can vote as many times as you’d like.
Why did yo
u decide to release a Christmas album this year?
I released one last year too. I did it for two reasons. (1) December is a slow month for me unless I let my music reflect Christmas. It keeps me working through the month. (2) Christmas concerts bring out a whole different crowd. The people don’t care if the music is good or great, they just want to celebrate the season. It’s low pressure with a high reward.
Did you rework classics or write original material or both?
Both. I wrote a song with my friend Asher Seevinck (Seafinch) and Jason Stevens. I also did a few classics.
(Video Note: “This Changes Everything” is from Josh’s 2008 Christmas album, Narratives)
Which of the songs on the album is particularly special to you? (You can name more than one!)
“Do You Hear What I Hear?” I did the song with Susie Hirsch. She came to Salt Lake City from Michigan to record the song. The song is special to me because the experience was special. She wrote me a really encouraging email telling me how much that time meant to her. She’s never released anything and she’s really talented.
By and large, the whole album was special to me. I got to work with a different artist on each song – Ben Robie, Susie Hirsch, Jason Stevens, Hope Glenn and Seafinch. It was a pleasure to learn from them and support them in their love for music.
Describe one of the biggest Christmas-related catastrophes that happened.
Hmmm…we always had really great Christmases. I’ll keep thinking. I’m bound to have screwed something up.
What’s your fave Christmas song/Christmas movie or cartoon/Christmas cookie?
Elf or Christmas Vacation. Both are traditions for my family. I actually just watched Elf last night. I’m ready for Christmas. My favorite Christmas song is “Baby, it’s Cold Outside”.
Bonus Question:: What’s your New Year’s resolution?
I want to be a better husband for my wife. She’s an amazing wife and struggle with believing I’m anything comparable to her. A few specifics – take my shoes off at the door, thank her every time I notice her doing something around the house, candlelight, picnics
HONK YER HORN