Jim Brickman has made a career out of evoking serenity—and if there’s a season that could use a little of that energy, it’s Christmas. The Grammy-nominated pianist and songwriter is back with A Joyful Christmas, a record filled with sweeping instrumentals, original duets, and the kind of timeless ease that doesn’t require sleigh bells or Santa references to be festive.
Brickman’s approach to holiday music is part reverent, part inventive. “When you play them on the piano in my style, I can infuse a lot of my own character into the song,” he explains. “So it becomes familiar but not literal.” Even the hymns and carols we’ve all heard a thousand times are reimagined with a touch of warmth and improvisation.
But the heart of the record—and the real magic—comes in the collaborations. “This is probably the most eclectic mix of people I’ve ever had on an album,” he says. “Five For Fighting, Jane Lynch, Dick Van Dyke, Leslie Odom Jr.—it’s all over the place.”
That motley guest list wasn’t just for show. A Joyful Christmas began as a throwback TV special, aiming to channel the vintage sparkle of Andy Williams and Carol Burnett. Jane Lynch signed on instantly. “She was like, ‘Let’s make it like the old variety shows,’” Brickman recalls. “And then I said, wouldn’t it be amazing if Dick Van Dyke showed up? And she goes, ‘Let’s call him.’ And he said yes!”
While the record is full of lush arrangements and cheery melodies, Brickman’s secret sauce lies in writing for people—not just for the season. He recalls his first Christmas hit, “The Gift,” which has become a perennial favorite. “It’s not about Santa or snow,” he says. “It’s a love song that takes place during Christmas. And I think that’s why it’s connected with people—it’s about them.”
There’s a reason he keeps coming back to this well, and it’s not just about royalties (though he jokingly acknowledges that writing one Christmas classic is the dream). “People are yearning for hope and joy,” he says. “I’ve always wanted my music to feel like an escape. I don’t do breakup songs. I don’t do angry songs. I want you to leave with a good feeling.”
Brickman’s prolific streak doesn’t seem to be slowing—three albums last year, three more this year, and more to come. Part of that comes from his simplicity. “When you’re doing solo piano, it’s just me performing,” he says. “You’re not dealing with bands, background vocals, complicated mixing. It makes it easier to be prolific.”
So whether you’re tuning into the upcoming Joyful Christmas TV special, catching him on tour, or simply spinning the record while wrapping presents, Brickman’s holiday mission is clear: fewer breakdowns, more breakthroughs. Or at least fewer sleigh bells, more actual soul.
Listen to the interview above and then check out his collaboration with Five for Fighting on "Christmas Where You Are"!
