Brandon’s version of Lonely This Christmas set to be a festive favourite
Caithness entertainer Brandon McPhee has begun the countdown to the festive season by releasing his arrangement of a classic UK Christmas number one from 50 years ago.
English pop group Mud topped the charts in 1974 with Lonely This Christmas, and Brandon (28) has come up with a new version of the much-loved song featuring his smooth vocals and accordion accompaniment.
It was recorded at Pan Records, outside Wick, and the video was shot in Dunnet Forest.
“This song has such a powerful meaning,” Brandon said. “It’s not just about Christmas – it captures a sense of time and reflection that resonates far beyond Christmas.
“I wanted to honour the original while bringing my own interpretation to it.”
Lonely This Christmas is available on all major streaming platforms and on YouTube.
It has been another busy year for Brandon, who recorded a song with Irish music legend Daniel O’Donnell, toured around the UK and Ireland with his band, released a new album and sang for King Charles III.
Brandon gave a rendition of the hymn How Great Thou Art, accompanied by Manson Grant on piano, as part of a Sunday service at Canisbay Church of Scotland during the King’s summer stay in Caithness.
Brandon was also named as Scottish Entertainer of the Year at the Hot Country TV Awards 2024 in Ireland.
Meanwhile, the Brandon McPhee Trio are gearing up for seven Christmas concerts, including two in Caithness and one in Sutherland.
They will be performing on Monday, December 2, at the Royal British Legion club in Thurso (tickets from McBeath’s jewellers or the Legion); Tuesday, December 3, in Pulteneytown Parish Church (tickets from Gail's Gift Box, High Street, Wick); and Wednesday, December 4, in Strathy village hall (tickets from 07801 063021 or Bettyhill and Melvich shops).
Other dates follow on successive evenings in Perth, Dingwall, Fochabers and Oldmeldrum.
Pan Records has been the record label for all Brandon’s recordings.
