Country star returns to The Smith

Fans are likely to hear hits such as Your Love Amazes Me" when country singer John Berry returns to the Smith Opera House this weekend. But theyll mostly hear the classic songs of Christmas.

Fans are likely to hear hits such as Your Love Amazes Me" when country singer John Berry returns to the Smith Opera House this weekend.

But theyll mostly hear the classic songs of Christmas.

Berry, who last performed in Geneva two years ago, will return to the Seneca Street landmark for a 3 p.m. concert Sunday, this time as part of his annual Christmas tour.

I love touring. I have a great fondness for Christmas songs. I love it. Being of Christian faith, I love the message of Jesus," Berry said during a telephone interview from his home in Georgia.

He doesnt have to worry about loneliness on the road, either. Among the musicians on tour with him is his wife, Robin, who plays keyboard and sings background.

Berrys Christmas songs - such as his popular country radio version of Oh Holy Night" - dont stray far from the standard versions.

Its all traditional Christmas music all in the way people remember them being done," he said.

An instrumental version of Silent Night" will be played by pianist John Hall and cellist John Catchings; the duo has a Christmas release out this year.

Berrys Christmas album is titled Oh Holy Night-Live," and the new year will bring a new release called I Give My Heart." Its an album of love songs that are mostly remakes of 1970s and 80s hits such as Lady" by Kenny Rogers.

Berry said he might play a few songs from the new album this weekend, including Will You Marry Me?" The self-composed song will come out as the albums first release in January.

It was a pretty tremendous hall," Berry said of his first trip to The Smith. I cant wait to do my Christmas show there."

--By Kevin Devalk
Finger Lake Times
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