The Salsoul Orchestra was formed in 1974 in New York City, U.S.A. It was di… Read Full Bio ↴The Salsoul Orchestra was formed in 1974 in New York City, U.S.A. It was disbanded in 1982. The Salsoul Orchestra was the 'house orchestra' of Salsoul Records. It was mainly Vincent Montana, Jr. who wrote, conducted and produced the orchestra. The orchestra routinely included up to fifty members (including up to 18 violinists). Apart from it's own recordings, it played for numerous groups and artist on the Salsoul label. Montana got his start doing sessions for philly soul producers, and he adapted that lush style to disco, adding Latin motifs and textures.

Though Salsoul records had long been out of print, several were brought back in the mid-'90's. Many of the more recent 'house' music offerings owe more than a passing nod to the recordings of this orchestra.

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
The Salsoul Orchestra Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

God rest ye merry, gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Savior
Was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan′s power
When we were gone astray

Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy

Oh, tidings of comfort and joy

Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy
Oh, tidings of comfort and joy

Rest ye merry, gentlemen
Travel in to Bethlehem

Rest ye merry, gentlemen; travel in to Bethlehem
Tidings of comfort and joy

Comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Comfort and joy, comfort and joy

Tidings of comfort and joy, joy (repeat and fade)

Overall Meaning

The Salsoul Orchestra's version of the classic Christmas carol, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, presents a joyful and uplifting rendition that attunes with the holiday spirit. The song starts with an invitation for the gentlemen to rest and be merry during the festive season, urging them not to be discouraged by anything. The lyrics remind us of the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas day and how He came to save us from the power of Satan. The reference to being 'gone astray' emphasizes our need for redemption and how Jesus' birth represents a turning point in human history.

The chorus of the song, "Oh, tidings of comfort and joy," emphasizes the positive message and the hope that comes with the birth of Jesus. By repeating the phrase, the songwriters convey a sense of continuity and consistency to the message. The song continues with another reference to 'traveling to Bethlehem,' which highlights the importance of the nativity site and Jesus' birthplace. The lyrics give us hope and convey a sense of comfort and joy, which makes the holiday season special.

Line by Line Meaning

God rest ye merry, gentlemen
May God bring peace and comfort to you, gentlemen

Let nothing you dismay
Do not be discouraged or disheartened

Remember, Christ, our Savior
Keep in mind that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer

Was born on Christmas day
He came into the world on this day

To save us all from Satan's power
He came to rescue us from the clutches of Satan

When we were gone astray
When we were lost or misled

Oh, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy
This news we bring is full of peace and happiness

Rest ye merry, gentlemen
May you be comforted and at peace, gentlemen

Travel in to Bethlehem
Journey to Bethlehem, where the Savior was born

Comfort and joy, comfort and joy
Peace and happiness, peace and happiness

Tidings of comfort and joy, joy
News of peace and happiness, joyfully