Josh Groban Records Holiday Album

Nov. 30, 2007 — -- Josh Groban's mature baritone voice has become his signature and garnered fans internationally.

His latest effort, a holiday-theme disc called "Noel," currently sits atop the Billboard 200 album chart, besting artists like superstar singer and songwriter Alicia Keys, R&B hipster Chris Brown and country crooner Carrie Underwood.

The hit record is another accomplishment for the artist whose international sales have topped 17 million and whose "Awake" concert tour has sold out abroad.

The London Symphony Orchestra and several other guest artists joined the 26-year-old on "Noel," which was recorded in Los Angeles.

Groban said the thought of spending the holidays at home with his family is what prompted him to record the seasonal selection.

"I was inspired by all the Christmases," Groban said in a statement. "I've been fortunate enough to celebrate with my family over the last 26 years."

The album includes classic holiday tunes like "Silent Night," "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" and "O Come All Ye Faithful," which he sings along with the Mormon Tabernacle choir. Country superstar Faith Hill joins him on their version of "The First Noel."

"I was committed to making a classic Christmas album yet one that sounded different than anything that's been heard on a holiday record," he said.

For more information on Groban and his holiday record go to his Web site at www.joshgroban.com.