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Introduction:

Toby Keith’s “What Made The Baby Cry?” is a poignant Christmas ballad that delves into the profound meaning of the holiday season. Released in 1995 as part of the album Christmas to Christmas, the song is a departure from Keith’s typical country-rock sound, showcasing his vocal range and emotional depth.

The track is a masterful blend of country and contemporary Christian music, exploring the nativity story through a lens of modern contemplation. Keith’s heartfelt delivery paints a vivid picture of the night Jesus was born, emphasizing the world’s suffering and the hope embodied in the newborn child. While the song doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life, it ultimately offers a message of solace and redemption.

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Produced by Toby Keith and Bobby Boyd, “What Made The Baby Cry?” showcases the duo’s ability to create a stripped-down, intimate atmosphere that complements the song’s introspective nature. The track’s simplicity allows Keith’s vocals to take center stage, conveying the raw emotion of the lyrics with powerful authenticity.

While not a commercial powerhouse like some of Keith’s other hits, “What Made The Baby Cry?” has garnered a dedicated following among fans who appreciate the song’s spiritual and emotional depth. It has become a cherished part of many listeners’ Christmas playlists, serving as a reflective and meaningful addition to the holiday season.

Through its poignant lyrics and heartfelt performance, “What Made The Baby Cry?” stands as a testament to Toby Keith’s artistic versatility and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.

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Lyrics:

“What Made The Baby Cry?”
On a cold night, late December
As the snow fell to earth
That’s the one night, we remember
When a woman gave birth
And for miles and miles around
The baby’s cry was the only soundDid He know the world was filled with pain
Could He feel all the hunger and the shame
Or did He know about the way He would die
And the reason why
Is that what made the baby cry?
Is that what made the baby cry?

As his Mother turned to hold Him
Her face filled with joy
He grew quiet when She told Him
He was more than just her baby boy
And for miles and miles around
Her lullaby was the only sound

Did She know the world was filled with pain
Could She feel all the hunger and the shame
Or did She know about the way He would die
And the reason why
Is that what made Her baby cry?
Is that what made Her baby cry?

And as He fell asleep
She wiped away His tears
But the question still remains
Have we changed in two thousand years

Don’t you know the world is still in pain
Can’t you feel all the hunger and the shame
Did we forget about the way that He died
And the reason why
Would we still make the baby cry?
Would we still make the baby cry?