An intimate version of a holiday classic: Mike Schikora, "O, Holy Night"

Article Contributed by PLA Media | Published on Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Mike Schikora is a Texas troubadour who embodies the essence of a Renaissance Man with his diverse interests, self-sufficient pioneer lifestyle, and numerous talents. The singer/songwriter, craftsman, and horseman delivers a powerful rendition of the classic carol “O Holy Night,” infusing it with a unique touch resonating deeply this holiday season.

For the first time, “O Holy Night” is available to radio this holiday season. Fans can find Schikora's intimate rendition of the tune on his EP, Colorado Christmas.

"O Holy Night" has always been my favorite song at Christmas. Especially upon learning how it instigated a cease-fire during a war long ago. According to legend, a French soldier jumped out of his trench during the Franco-Prussian war and sang the song, “O Holy Night,” while being attacked by the Germans. The Germans were moved by the soldiers’ actions and sang a hymn by Martin Luther in response. The story goes that fighting stopped for 24 hours to honor Christmas Day. My horses are my family, and cozying up with them in my barn stalls and singing for them just made it more Christmas-like for me." Schikora says.

Mike is co-owner of Mike & Mike: Rustic & Reclaimed Store, where he has built a devoted customer base for lovingly reclaimed and handcrafted wood creations, including stunning furniture and elegant décor items. In addition, his culinary skills are near legendary, including his baked goods include his signature “Cowboy Cookie” package, featuring delightful boot, hat, and saddle-shaped sugar cookies that customers adore.

The artists holiday release comes on the heels of his highly acclaimed self-penned album Outlaw From The South. His holiday EP Colorado Christmas is also available on all streaming platforms.

“The simple image of a cowboy, sitting in a barn, playing “O Holy Night” on his acoustic guitar to his two horses holds so much meaning in a “Little Drummer Boy” sort of way.  Mike is acknowledging the Holiest of Holy Nights and is presenting the gift of this song in a setting not unlike the setting in a barn on that night so long ago” says Nashville's Steve Baker of Visual Image Marketing.

His latest musical release, Outlaw From The South, highlights his creative prowess, while his fresh take on timeless classics like “O Holy Night” demonstrates his mastery of reinvention. Beyond music, he excels in the culinary arts and crafts exquisite furniture, revealing a versatile skill set that sets him apart. Beyond music, he excels in the culinary arts and crafts exquisite furniture, revealing a versatile skill set that sets him apart.

“Mike Schikora’s Outlaw from the South is full of worthwhile songwriting

and music that doesn’t date. Nor does it champion any

causes other than what it means to be a human being."

Garth Thomas, The Hollywood Digest