Sufjan Stevens Releases First New Christmas Song in Nearly 15 Years: Stream

Sufjan Stevens is getting into the holiday spirit early, and this year he’s bringing something new to the table. The singer-songwriter has shared “On This Christmas (It Only Gets Better),” his first newly written, produced, and performed Christmas song in nearly 15 years. The track arrives ahead of Worst Christmas Ever!, a compilation of his extensive holiday catalog due out Friday, November 6th, via Asthmatic Kitty Records. Rather than celebrating the usual holiday cheer, “On This Christmas” finds Stevens reflecting on past mistakes and asking for forgiveness. “On this Christmas, I ask forgiveness for all the funny things I’ve said and done,” he sings. “I love the idea of a Christmas apology,” Stevens said. “A holiday characterized by the giving and receiving of gifts might be made even better by the giving and receiving of forgiveness.” He continued, “‘I’m sorry’ is the ultimate ice-breaker in a moment of conflict, contention, and misunderstanding.” Stevens described the song as a prayer for greater understanding, adding, “I believe the world will find its way.” The single also comes with a new music video created by Stevens, Michael O’Neal, and Cubby Graham, featuring 6,000 stil...