Harry Connick Jr. bringing new holiday album to ABQ
Harry Connick Jr. makes the most of every moment in life.
During lockdown, the Emmy and Grammy winner took the time to record holiday tunes.
“I remember making my first holiday album,” he says. “There are many songs and I couldn’t cover them.”
The result is his fourth vacation album, Make It Merry, which was released on November 26th.
Connick is also on a holiday tour in support of the album. His tour will make a stop at the Kiva Auditorium on Wednesday, December 7th at 7:30pm.
On the album he covers classics like “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, “The Christmas Song” and “Jingle Bells”. He also has originals like Make It Merry.
“As a composer, I like to write new things,” he says. “I tend to look at things very closely. Being alone in the studio gave me time to work out all the elements in each song. These are really strong and happy songs. They are all good pieces of composition.”
Although Connick has been making music for decades, there are still challenges.
With “Make It Merry” Connick was able to approach the process in a practical way.
“Sound engineers are trained to get the best possible sound when tracking instruments,” he says. “It is an arduous river of wonder. I love it. I thrive in this situation.”
Connick’s tour lasts through Christmas Eve, concluding with a show at San Francisco’s Davies Symphony Hall.
He is honored to be touring the country and presenting a new work.
“The holidays are special for a lot of people,” he says. “It warms my heart to think of the audience taking the time to come and see me perform despite their busy schedules. There is no better feeling to be on stage. When I perform, each show is treated as if it could stand on its own. I give everything and take what the audience gives me.”
Connick’s return to New Mexico is a welcome stop for the musician.
He’s no stranger to the area, having not only performed in the state but also visited when his family lived in Santa Fe. His mother-in-law, artist Glenna Goodacre, lived in Santa Fe until her death in April 2020.
“You know, when I get to Albuquerque, I go to Duran’s pharmacy for something to eat,” he says. “I’ve always loved coming back to New Mexico. It’s a special place.”
