Cliff Richard says he’s “learning reggae” for new version of ‘The Lord Is My Shepherd’ for Christmas single

Cliff Richard, the veteran British singer whose career spans more than six decades, is venturing into reggae music for a forthcoming Christmas single. At 86 years old, Richard is preparing a reimagined version of the biblical psalm 'The Lord Is My Shepherd,' adapting it into a reggae-inflected track. This new song is expected to be part of a festive album slated for release in 2027.

Collaborating with songwriter Chris Eaton, who previously penned Richard’s 1990 Christmas chart-topper 'Saviour’s Day,' the singer is embracing an unfamiliar musical style. Richard has acknowledged that reggae is a genre he has yet to master, describing his current process as a learning experience under Eaton’s guidance. The new arrangement transforms the traditional psalm into a reggae rhythm, marking a notable departure from Richard’s usual sound.

This project coincides with the promotion of Richard’s upcoming compilation album 'Only Number Ones,' scheduled for release on November 27. The album features Richard’s personal interpretations of songs that achieved number one status on the charts, including a fresh version of the classic holiday tune 'White Christmas.' The collection also covers material from contemporary artists such as Harry Styles and iconic groups like The Monkees, alongside Richard’s own signature hits.

Included in the deluxe 2CD edition of the album are Richard’s well-known festive singles 'Mistletoe And Wine' and 'Saviour’s Day,' as well as his UK chart-topping rendition of 'The Millennium Prayer.' Over his career, Richard has secured four UK Christmas number one singles, a record that encompasses collaborations with The Shadows and Band Aid II dating back to the 1960s and 1980s.

The announcement of Richard’s reggae adaptation of Psalm 23 has generated a mixed reception among the public. While some fans express skepticism about the stylistic shift, noting it diverges sharply from Richard’s traditional musical image, others have offered more humorous or sarcastic responses. Despite this, the artist remains committed to exploring new artistic avenues, motivated by his longstanding partnership with Eaton.

Richard’s recent years have seen him maintain an active presence in the music scene despite health challenges. Last year, he disclosed undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, while continuing to perform live, including a Christmas show at London’s Royal Albert Hall. His resilience and willingness to innovate underscore his enduring relevance in the industry.

The upcoming reggae-infused Christmas single represents a distinctive blend of spiritual content and a genre not typically associated with Richard’s extensive catalog. This creative choice highlights his openness to experimentation even in the later stages of his career, potentially reaching new audiences and adding a fresh dimension to seasonal music offerings.

Details about the full track listing or the exact release date of the 2027 festive album remain limited. However, Richard’s announcement signals an intriguing chapter in his prolific career, bridging classic religious themes with contemporary musical influences. The project will likely be closely watched by fans and industry observers interested in how this blend of styles resonates in the current musical landscape.

Overall, Cliff Richard’s embrace of reggae for a Christmas psalm single underscores his continual evolution as an artist. Balancing his rich legacy of chart-topping hits with fresh creative pursuits, he reinforces his place as a dynamic figure in British music history.