NATALIE GRANT
"Believe" (CURB)

1.  When you recorded the album, how did you capture the Christmas spirit?

I am Christmas-crazy 365 days a year, so getting in the “Christmas spirit” was not difficult for me. It was June, however, and 90 degrees outside, so we turned down the air conditioning, plugged in some Christmas lights and cranked up Nat King Cole.

2.  What are you hoping is under your tree this year?

Time. All I want for Christmas is more time with my hubby.

3.  What five words would you use to describe this record?

Classic, festive, magical, sentimental and timeless

4.  What are your two favorite songs on the record? 

“Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” because my husband plays a killer piano part – making it really ragtime and fun – and it reminds me that I am truly a kid at heart. “Sweet Little Jesus Boy” because it is recorded with a chamber chorale, and I love mixing the element of the completely classical choir with a soulful, contemporary lead vocal.

MICHAEL MCELROY, MUSIC DIRECTOR AND CONDUCTOR
"Great Joy:  A Gospel Christmas" (Sh.K.Boom)

1.  When you recorded the album, how did you capture the Christmas spirit?

It felt like Christmas because of the music. The songs all tell the story of the birth of Jesus Christ, so when we started to sing, the joy of the season filled us up.

2.  What are you hoping is under your tree this year?

As the last song on the CD says:  “I wish joy, love and peace in our world not just during the holiday but all year around.”

3.  What five words would you use to describe this record?

Inspirational, spirit-filled, joyful, praise and glory.

4.  What are your two favorite songs on the record? 

“Go Tell It,” because my sister Avis Graves sang the lead, and it reminds me of growing up in my church in Ohio. “Joy to the World” summarizes the reason for the holiday season.

NATHAN COCHRAN, MERCYME 
"The Christmas Sessions" (INO)

1.  When you recorded the album, how did you capture the Christmas spirit?