Brookmans Park singer songwriter The Gleeman is a contender for Christmas number one after releasing a new charity single.
I Love Christmastime is set to be release tomorrow (Friday, December 1), with proceeds going to War Child to help those effected by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Official Charts Company is tipping the single to be a contender for the Christmas number one, but faces competition from the likes of Mariah Carey, The Pogues, The Beatles and Ed Sheeran.
The Gleeman just hopes that song can do some good, and keep a focus on the war in Ukraine.
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"If I Love Christmastime, with the support of War Child, can help raise awareness and support for children impacted by war, can connect with people, can unite people, can provide some comfort and joy or can encourage anyone to sing along so they do not feel so alone, this Christmastime will definitely become one of the magical ones."
The song has been written from the perspective of a child, with The Gleeman's lyrics reflecting on the joys and magic of the Christmases gone-by.
The song features the Kyiv-based Shchedryk Children’s Choir, who recorded their parts in Ukraine earlier this month, using one of the country's few remaining recording studios.
Cherwell College Choir - which was formed by refugee Yevheniia Diachenko to unite Ukrainian children arriving in the UK - also feature, as does a solo from 10-year-old Sofia Fedyna, who is part of the St Mary’s Ukrainian School Choir and lived in Lviv.
"I love Christmas the most. In my house in Ukraine, it was always fun with carols. I miss it," said Sofia.
Renowned broadcaster Bob Harris was part of the project too, interviewing The Gleeman and the children involved for a behind-the-scenes video.
War Child are delighted to be The Gleeman's chosen charity, with their global music leader Jim Benner saying: "War Child is very happy that The Gleeman is donating proceeds from I Love Christmastime, which will raise awareness for and support our vital work with children in Ukraine and war zones across the globe.
"Written from the viewpoint of a child, the song reminds us of the innocence of youth. No child ever started a war, but they are innocent victims.
"The holiday season should be a peaceful and joyful time for children and families and we welcome this song of warmth and safety for children and grown-ups everywhere."
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