Why “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” by Al Green & Annie Lennox Endures as a Christmas Classic
Although we all love to receive, the holiday season is a time of giving. Giving doesn’t always describe material things, something it means emotional ones also. In a time of superficial values, “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” serves a gentle reminder of what matters most. Who could spread this message better music icons Al Green and Annie Lennox? Extracted from the soundtrack of the Bill Murray film “Scrooged”, this soulful Christmas duet is one remembered with fondness.
The Song’s Origin and Impact
With it’s uplifting soul-pop vibe, the track opens with a bright, mid-tempo groove. Driven by smooth drums and gentle keyboard chords, that evoke celebration and optimism. Released in 1988, the soulful Christmas track was originally written by Jackie DeShannon. Known for her sentimental 1965 hit, “What the World Needs Now Is Love”. DeShannon’s version became one of the biggest hits of her career.
Played during the film’s ending credits, the holiday hit perfectly blends Lennox’s powerful vocals with Green’s signature gospel-infused pipes. A commercial success, the song reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Adult Contemporary chart in early 1989. It also became a top 40 hit in several countries, including the UK.
The Song’s Vibrant Music Video
Directed by Sophie Muller, the accompanying video features Al Green and Annie Lennox performing against a dreamy backdrop. Starry effects and falling snow were intertwined with clips from the film, creating the perfect fusion of nostalgic holiday magic. The performances of Green and Lennox were nostalgically natural. As a result, during the 1988 holiday season, the music video remained in heavy rotation on MTV.
The Rise of Al Green
With a sound that practically defined 1970s R&B, Al Green remains one of the most prolific icons of the 20th century. With his silky-smooth vocals. The Forrest City, Arkansas native rose to prominence with a string of timeless hits. These hits include “Tired of Being Alone,” “Love and Happiness,” and “Let’s Stay Together.” Blending gospel-notes with secular vibes in a way that reshaped popular music, Green’s formula remains unmatched.
An 11-time Grammy winner, Green was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995. Ultimately, Green is indeed one of the greatest and most influential singers and songwriters in music history.
The Rise of Annie Lennox
Singer, songwriter, and activist are just a few words to describe Annie Lennox. Her androgynous appeal and haunting vocals, led to her becoming one of the most eclectic artists in modern music. The Aberdeen, Scotland native rose to prominence as one half of the pop/rock duo Eurythmics. Alongside her groupmate Dave Stewart, Lennox delivered countless 80s staples. The songs include “Would I Lie to You?”, and the iconic “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This).”
Her solo highlights include the soulfully melodic “No More ‘I Love You’s.” With their eclectic fusion of pop, rock and electronic music, the group’s bold identity and depth were powerful. As a result, Eurythmics became one of the most multifaceted groups of the 1980s. Lennox’s accolades include four Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe. She was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a member of Eurythmics) in 2022.
Final Thoughts
With its powerful message of unity, love and happiness, “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” continues to be a sentimental classic. The song is more than a simple cover, instead it is a fusion of two of the most soulful l voices of the 20th century. Together, the two icons remind listeners that love is a necessity. In a world often divided by negativity and doubt, the song’s gentle demand still feels as relevant today. Change begins with compassion, and can be contagious if the heart allows it.
