18 Joyous Christmas Songs About Shepherds (Nativity Playlist)

Christmas songs about shepherds hold a special place in holiday music, celebrating the humble and faithful figures who played a pivotal role in the Nativity story. These songs, ranging from traditional carols to contemporary compositions, highlight the shepherds’ journey from their fields to the manger, where they became the first witnesses to the birth of Jesus.

Through their simplicity and devotion, the shepherds embody the themes of faith, obedience, and the joy of spreading the good news.

As we listen to these songs, we are reminded of the timeless message that Christmas brings—one of hope, humility, and the universal call to share the joy of Christ’s birth with the world.

18 Classic Christmas Songs About Shepherds That Tell The Nativity Story

These songs highlight the shepherds’ role in the Christmas story, celebrating their journey to witness the birth of Jesus and their place in the Nativity narrative.

Here’s a list of 18 Christmas songs that focus on the shepherds, who played a significant role in the Nativity story:

#1 “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks” by Nahum Tate

“While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks” is a classic Christmas carol that vividly recounts the experience of the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth. Written by Nahum Tate in 1700, the song’s lyrics describe how the shepherds were tending their flocks when an angel of the Lord appeared to them, bringing the joyful news of the Savior’s birth. The carol captures the awe and reverence of the shepherds as they hurried to Bethlehem to witness this miraculous event.

This carol has been set to various melodies over the centuries, making it a versatile and enduring part of Christmas traditions. It resonates with listeners who appreciate the humble and faithful role of the shepherds in the Nativity story, emphasizing their importance as the first to receive and spread the news of Christ’s birth. The song invites us to join in their wonder and celebration, reminding us of the simple yet profound joy of Christmas.

#2 “The First Noel” by Various Artists

“The First Noel” is a traditional Christmas carol that tells the story of the first Christmas, focusing on the shepherds who were among the first to hear of Jesus’ birth. The carol, which dates back to at least the 17th century, describes how the shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks when they were visited by an angel who announced the birth of the Savior. The lyrics, “The first Noel, the angel did say, was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay,” highlight the significance of the shepherds in the Christmas narrative.

This carol has been performed by countless artists across generations, making it a beloved and timeless piece of Christmas music. “The First Noel” resonates with those who cherish the traditional retelling of the Nativity story, where the shepherds’ humble faith and immediate response to the angelic message are celebrated. It’s a song that captures the essence of the Christmas story, inviting listeners to reflect on the wonder and hope that the shepherds felt on that holy night.

#3 “Angels We Have Heard on High” by Andrea Bocelli

“Angels We Have Heard on High” by Andrea Bocelli is a powerful rendition of the classic Christmas carol that celebrates the joyous proclamation of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds. The carol, which originated in France in the 18th century, describes the scene of the shepherds hearing the angels sing “Gloria in excelsis Deo” (Glory to God in the highest) as they announced the birth of Christ. The lyrics emphasize the shepherds’ role in spreading the good news, as they hurried to Bethlehem to witness the newborn King.

Andrea Bocelli’s rich, operatic voice adds a sense of grandeur and reverence to this already majestic carol. The song resonates with listeners who are inspired by the jubilant celebration of Jesus’ birth and the shepherds’ eager response to the angelic message. “Angels We Have Heard on High” is a song that brings to life the heavenly joy of Christmas, with the shepherds playing a central role in the unfolding of the Nativity story.

#4 “Shepherd’s Pipe Carol” by John Rutter

“Shepherd’s Pipe Carol” by John Rutter is a lively and uplifting Christmas carol that tells the story of a young shepherd boy who plays his pipe in celebration of Jesus’ birth. Composed in 1966, the carol’s lyrics describe the boy’s journey to Bethlehem, where he joins the angels and other shepherds in welcoming the newborn Savior. The line, “Going through the hills on a night all starry, on the way to Bethlehem,” captures the excitement and joy of the boy as he participates in this holy event.

John Rutter’s composition is characterized by its energetic melody and rhythmic vitality, making it a popular choice for choirs during the Christmas season. “Shepherd’s Pipe Carol” resonates with those who appreciate the innocence and simplicity of the shepherds’ role in the Nativity story, as they respond to the birth of Jesus with heartfelt joy. It’s a carol that highlights the importance of even the smallest contributions to the celebration of Christ’s birth, symbolized by the shepherd boy’s humble pipe.

#5 “Go Tell It on the Mountain” by Mahalia Jackson

“Go Tell It on the Mountain” by Mahalia Jackson is a powerful spiritual that emphasizes the shepherds’ role in spreading the news of Jesus’ birth. Originating as an African American spiritual, the song’s lyrics focus on the command given to the shepherds to “go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, that Jesus Christ is born.” The song celebrates the shepherds as the first evangelists, spreading the good news of Christ’s birth with joy and enthusiasm.

Mahalia Jackson’s soulful and passionate rendition of this spiritual brings a sense of urgency and excitement to the message. “Go Tell It on the Mountain” resonates with listeners who are inspired by the idea of sharing the joy of Christmas with others, just as the shepherds did on that first Christmas night. It’s a song that encourages us to be bold in our faith and to proclaim the hope and joy of the Christmas message to the world.

#6 “The Little Drummer Boy” by Bing Crosby

“The Little Drummer Boy” by Bing Crosby is a beloved Christmas song that, while not explicitly about the shepherds, shares a similar theme of humble offering and devotion. Written by Katherine Kennicott Davis in 1941, the song tells the story of a young boy who, having no material gift to give the newborn Jesus, offers to play his drum as a tribute. The lyrics, “I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum,” highlight the sincerity and love behind the boy’s simple gift, echoing the shepherds’ humble approach to worship.

Bing Crosby’s warm and resonant voice brings a sense of reverence and tenderness to this classic song. “The Little Drummer Boy” resonates with listeners who appreciate the theme of giving from the heart, regardless of one’s means. It’s a song that reminds us that the spirit of Christmas lies in the love and devotion we offer, much like the shepherds and the drummer boy who came to honor the newborn King.

#7 “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Frank Sinatra

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Frank Sinatra is a classic Christmas carol that celebrates the joyous announcement of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds. Written by Charles Wesley in 1739, the carol’s lyrics proclaim the good news of Christ’s arrival, with the angels singing “Glory to the newborn King.” The shepherds are central to the carol’s narrative, as they are the first to receive the angelic message and are invited to share in the heavenly celebration.

Frank Sinatra’s smooth and elegant delivery adds a timeless quality to this beloved carol, making it a staple of Christmas music. “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” resonates with listeners who are uplifted by the triumphant and joyous proclamation of Jesus’ birth, where the shepherds play a key role in the unfolding of the Nativity story. It’s a song that invites us to join in the angels’ song and celebrate the hope and joy of Christmas.

#8 “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” by Josh Groban

“It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” by Josh Groban is a reflective and serene Christmas carol that focuses on the peaceful message delivered by the angels to the shepherds. Written by Edmund Sears in 1849, the carol’s lyrics describe a world where the angels’ song of “peace on earth, goodwill to men” is heard by the shepherds as they watch over their flocks. The song emphasizes the contrast between the calm of the holy night and the troubled world that desperately needs the peace that Christ brings.

Josh Groban’s rich and emotive voice adds depth to this contemplative carol, making it a moving part of any Christmas playlist. “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” resonates with those who long for peace and find solace in the message of hope that the shepherds received. It’s a song that reminds us of the enduring power of the Christmas message, where the shepherds’ experience of divine peace continues to inspire us today.

#9 “Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow” by Harry Belafonte

“Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow” by Harry Belafonte is a traditional African American spiritual that calls on the shepherds, and by extension, all believers, to follow the star to Bethlehem and witness the birth of Jesus. The lyrics encourage a sense of urgency and commitment, with the refrain, “There’s a star in the east on Christmas morn, rise up, shepherd, and follow,” emphasizing the importance of responding to the divine call. The song highlights the shepherds’ pivotal role in the Nativity story, as they are among the first to recognize and honor the newborn King.

Harry Belafonte’s warm and expressive voice brings this spiritual to life, imbuing it with a sense of reverence and determination. The song resonates with listeners who are inspired by the shepherds’ example of faith and obedience, as they leave their flocks to follow the star and witness the miracle of Christmas. It’s a song that challenges us to rise up and follow the call of faith, just as the shepherds did on that first Christmas morning.

#10 “The Friendly Beasts” by Burl Ives

“The Friendly Beasts” by Burl Ives is a charming and whimsical Christmas song that recounts the story of the animals present at Jesus’ birth, each of whom offers a gift or service to the newborn King. While the focus is on the animals, the shepherds’ role is implicit, as they are the caretakers of these animals and witnesses to the events of the Nativity. The lyrics, “I, said the donkey, all shaggy and brown, I carried His mother uphill and down,” highlight the contributions of the humble creatures in the stable.

Burl Ives’ gentle and folksy rendition makes “The Friendly Beasts” a delightful and endearing addition to Christmas celebrations, particularly for children. The song resonates with listeners who appreciate the simple, yet meaningful, contributions of all creatures in the Nativity story, where the shepherds and their animals play a supportive role in welcoming the Savior. It’s a song that reminds us of the beauty of humility and service, as exemplified by the shepherds and their flock.

#11 “O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Pentatonix

“O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Pentatonix is a powerful a cappella rendition of the traditional Christmas carol that invites all believers, including the shepherds, to come and adore the newborn King. The carol, originally written in Latin as “Adeste Fideles,” calls on the faithful to join in the celebration of Christ’s birth, with the lyrics, “O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem.” The shepherds are among those who answer this call, leaving their flocks to worship the Savior.

Pentatonix’s vocal harmonies and dynamic arrangement bring a fresh and contemporary energy to this classic carol, making it a favorite during the holiday season. The song resonates with listeners who are inspired by the collective call to worship and the unity of all believers, including the humble shepherds, in celebrating the birth of Jesus. It’s a song that encourages us to come together in joyful adoration, just as the shepherds did on that first Christmas night.

#12 “Do You Hear What I Hear?” by Bing Crosby

“Do You Hear What I Hear?” by Bing Crosby is a Christmas song that tells the story of the Nativity from the perspective of different characters, including the shepherds. Written by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne in 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the song is a plea for peace, using the story of the shepherds hearing the angels’ message as a central theme. The lyrics, “Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king, do you know what I know?” emphasize the shepherds’ role in spreading the news of Jesus’ birth.

Bing Crosby’s smooth and comforting voice adds a timeless quality to this modern Christmas classic, making it resonate with audiences across generations. The song speaks to the universal desire for peace and understanding, with the shepherds serving as messengers of hope and goodwill. It’s a song that reminds us of the importance of listening to the message of Christmas and sharing it with others, just as the shepherds did.

#13 “See Amid the Winter’s Snow” by Libera

“See Amid the Winter’s Snow” by Libera is a serene and reflective Christmas carol that focuses on the peaceful and holy night of Jesus’ birth, with the shepherds playing a key role in the narrative. Written by Edward Caswall in 1858, the carol’s lyrics describe the stillness of the winter night, where the shepherds witness the miraculous birth of the Savior. The line, “Lo, within a manger lies He who built the starry skies,” highlights the contrast between the humble setting and the divine nature of the event.

Libera’s ethereal voices and harmonies create a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere, making “See Amid the Winter’s Snow” a beautiful addition to Christmas music collections. The song resonates with listeners who appreciate the quiet reverence and awe of the shepherds as they behold the newborn King. It’s a carol that invites reflection on the significance of the Nativity and the shepherds’ role as the first witnesses to this holy event.

#14 “How Great Our Joy” by The Robert Shaw Chorale

“How Great Our Joy” by The Robert Shaw Chorale is a jubilant Christmas carol that celebrates the joy and wonder of the shepherds upon hearing the news of Jesus’ birth. The carol, which has roots in traditional German Christmas music, features a call-and-response format, with the refrain “How great our joy! Great our joy!” expressing the shepherds’ overwhelming happiness. The lyrics recount the angels’ message and the shepherds’ eager journey to Bethlehem to see the newborn King.

The Robert Shaw Chorale’s robust and spirited rendition of this carol captures the exuberance and excitement of the shepherds, making it a lively and uplifting addition to Christmas festivities. The song resonates with those who are inspired by the pure, uncontainable joy that the shepherds felt upon learning of Christ’s birth. It’s a carol that encourages us to share in that joy and to celebrate the miracle of Christmas with heartfelt enthusiasm.

#15 “Shepherd’s Carol” by The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge

“Shepherd’s Carol” by The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge is a contemporary choral piece that offers a gentle and introspective reflection on the shepherds’ role in the Nativity. Composed by Bob Chilcott, the carol’s lyrics focus on the quiet and humble journey of the shepherds as they make their way to Bethlehem to see the Christ child. The music is characterized by its serene and meditative quality, inviting listeners to contemplate the significance of the shepherds’ simple yet profound act of faith.

The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, known for their exceptional vocal purity and precision, delivers a beautifully nuanced performance of this carol. The song resonates with those who appreciate the quiet strength and humility of the shepherds, who faithfully followed the angelic message to find the Savior. It’s a carol that invites us to consider the quiet, often unnoticed acts of faith that play a crucial role in the unfolding of the Christmas story.

#16 “Past Three O’Clock” by Traditional

“Past Three O’Clock” is a traditional English Christmas carol that reflects the joyful spirit of the shepherds as they journey to Bethlehem. The carol, which has its origins in the medieval tradition of town criers announcing the time, uses the refrain “Past three o’clock, and a cold frosty morning, past three o’clock, good morrow, masters all,” to create a sense of anticipation and excitement. The lyrics celebrate the shepherds’ role as the first to receive the news of Christ’s birth and their eagerness to witness the miracle.

This carol has been performed by various choirs and artists, each bringing their own interpretation to its lively and rhythmic melody. “Past Three O’Clock” resonates with listeners who enjoy the traditional and festive aspects of Christmas music, where the shepherds’ joy and anticipation are shared by all. It’s a carol that captures the timeless excitement of Christmas morning, with the shepherds leading the way to the manger.

#17 “On Christmas Night (The Sussex Carol)” by Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band

“On Christmas Night” by Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band, also known as “The Sussex Carol,” is a traditional English carol that celebrates the joyous news of Jesus’ birth, with a focus on the role of the shepherds. The lyrics, which date back to the 17th century, describe how “On Christmas night all Christians sing, to hear the news the angels bring,” emphasizing the shepherds’ role in spreading the glad tidings. The carol is filled with a sense of celebration and communal joy, reflecting the collective happiness that the shepherds experienced.

Maddy Prior & The Carnival Band bring a lively and folk-inspired energy to this carol, making it a vibrant addition to any Christmas celebration. The song resonates with listeners who appreciate the traditional, communal aspects of Christmas music, where the shepherds’ joy is shared by all. It’s a carol that invites everyone to join in the celebration of Christ’s birth, just as the shepherds did on that first Christmas night.

#18 “As Shepherds Watched Their Flocks” by Mormon Tabernacle Choir

“As Shepherds Watched Their Flocks” by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir is a traditional Christmas carol that recounts the experience of the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth. The carol, based on a text by Nahum Tate, describes how the shepherds were visited by an angel who announced the birth of the Savior. The lyrics, “Fear not, said he, for mighty dread had seized their troubled mind,” capture the initial fear of the shepherds, followed by their joy and awe as they received the angelic message.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s majestic and powerful performance of this carol brings out the drama and reverence of the shepherds’ experience, making it a stirring part of Christmas celebrations. The song resonates with those who are moved by the profound impact of the angel’s message on the shepherds, who responded with faith and obedience. It’s a carol that reminds us of the importance of listening to and acting on the divine messages we receive, just as the shepherds did on that holy night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are shepherds featured prominently in Christmas songs?

Shepherds are featured prominently in Christmas songs because they were the first to receive the news of Jesus’ birth from the angels, symbolizing humility and the idea that the message of Christ is for all people, regardless of their status. Their role in the Nativity story highlights the importance of faith and obedience.

What themes do Christmas songs about shepherds typically explore?

Christmas songs about shepherds often explore themes of humility, faith, joy, and the divine call to witness and share the good news of Jesus’ birth. These songs emphasize the shepherds’ simple yet profound role in the Nativity, celebrating their eagerness to honor the newborn Savior.

Are Christmas songs about shepherds more traditional or modern?

Christmas songs about shepherds are found in both traditional and modern repertoires, with some carols dating back centuries and others being contemporary compositions. Regardless of their age, these songs consistently highlight the timeless message of the shepherds’ role in the Christmas story.

How do Christmas songs about shepherds resonate with modern audiences?

Christmas songs about shepherds resonate with modern audiences by conveying universal themes of humility, devotion, and the joy of sharing good news. These songs remind listeners of the importance of faith and the inclusive nature of the Christmas message.