About the song
“Bethlehem in Birmingham” is more than just a song; it’s an invitation to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Toby Keith, with his distinctive country twang, paints a heartwarming picture of a holiday season that’s both familiar and extraordinary.
The song transports us to a quiet Christmas Eve in Birmingham. It’s a place far removed from the bustling, commercialized holiday scenes we often associate with the season. Instead, Keith invites us to focus on the simple, yet profound, story of a young family. Mary and Joseph, characters straight out of the Bible, find themselves in an unexpected and humble setting.
The beauty of this song lies in its ability to connect the timeless story of Christ’s birth with the everyday experiences of ordinary people. By placing the nativity scene in a small town in Alabama, Keith reminds us that the spirit of Christmas can be found anywhere, no matter how ordinary the circumstances.
The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery that evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth. We can almost feel the chill of the night air, the crackling of a fire, and the quiet anticipation of Christmas morning. Keith’s heartfelt vocals and the accompanying instrumentation create a comforting atmosphere that invites listeners to slow down and savor the moment.
“Bethlehem in Birmingham” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of our busy lives, we can still find moments of peace and joy by focusing on what truly matters. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Toby Keith or simply looking for a beautiful Christmas song to add to your playlist, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
Christmas Eve in Birmingham
It’s a long, long way from Bethlehem
Mary and Joe live outside of town
On an old, run-down farm
Mary says, Joe, you’d better get the car
My contractions ain’t that far apart
But that Falcon stalled after sixty yards
Out behind the barn
So away to the stables go Mary and Joe
Now, it’s not much shelter, but it keeps them from the cold
Mary’s hurtin’, Joe prays to God for a helping hand
They need a Bethlehem miracle tonight in Birmingham
A kerosene lantern is the only light
Joe says, Mary, don’t give up the fight
She’s gonna keep pushin’ till the baby cries
If it takes her last breath
And as the dawn begins to break
Across the fields, valleys and the lakes
A baby’s cry greets the light of day
Merry Christmas and God bless
So away in the stables lay Mary, the baby and Joe
It’s not much shelter, but it keeps them from the cold
Mary’s cradles her baby, Joe thanks God for the helping hand
There was a Bethlehem miracle last night in Birmingham
A Bethlehem miracle last night in Birmingham
