Toby Gad Invites Megan McKenna And More To Tell Stories Through Song

After decades crafting chart-topping hits for pop’s biggest names, GRAMMY-nominated, Diamond-certified songwriter Toby Gad is stepping into the spotlight himself this holiday season. The Blast can exclusively reveal that Gad will release his first-ever Christmas album, “Piano Diaries – Christmas,” via Kite Records, alongside the world premiere teaser for the music video “Feels Like Hallelujah” featuring British star Megan McKenna. For years, Toby Gad has been the creative force behind some of pop’s most defining moments, including John Legend’s “All of Me,” Beyoncé’s “If I Were a Boy,” and Fergie’s “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” songs that have not only dominated charts but defined eras. Now, the prolific songwriter turns inward with “Piano Diaries – Christmas,” a deeply personal project that transforms his piano bench into a confessional. The twelve-track album captures the warmth, nostalgia, and intimacy of the season through all-original compositions performed by a powerhouse lineup of world-class vocalists.

Each song was crafted in collaboration with its featured artist, creating what Gad calls a “modern holiday songbook.” Contributors include Jordin Sparks, Victoria Justice, Loren Allred, Megan McKenna, “The Voice” winner Huntley, “X Factor” champion Louisa Johnson, and more, each sharing their own Christmas story through Gad’s elegant piano and orchestral arrangements.

“You could say I used to be a bit of a Grinch,” Gad admitted to The Blast. “But my daughters convinced me this time of year really is magical. I wanted to make a Christmas album that feels timeless, like musical diary entries you can return to every year.”

The album’s strength lies in its balance of emotion and elegance. Jordin Sparks’ “Christmas Takes Me Back Home” and Huntley’s “Mama Made Christmas” honor family traditions, while Megan McKenna’s “Feels Like Hallelujah” and Anthony Gargiula’s “Fall in Love with Christmas” capture pure joy.

Meanwhile, Victoria Justice’s “Blessed” and Dionne Bromfield’s “Christmas For One” bring soulful introspection, painting the season in shades of love, loss, and renewal.

“I was more of a listener than a writer this time,” Gad explained. “Every song began with a story. Jordin shared how motherhood changed her view of Christmas, Loren talked about the magic of childhood. Huntley wrote about a make-believe holiday with his mom. Those emotions became melodies.”

Accompanying the album’s release is the exclusive teaser for the official “Feels Like Hallelujah” music video, performed by Megan McKenna, winner of “Celeb X.” The full video is set to debut later this month.

The song, a cinematic, gospel-tinged anthem of joy and gratitude, serves as one of the album’s emotional centerpieces. McKenna’s soaring vocals blend with Gad’s signature piano-driven arrangements to create a track that feels both classic and contemporary.

With over 400 released songs and 19 billion streams worldwide, Gad’s impact on modern music is undeniable. His catalog includes 17 Top 10 hits, collaborations with Madonna, Demi Lovato, Alicia Keys, The Jonas Brothers, and Kelly Clarkson, and two ASCAP Pop Song of the Year honors. But for Gad, “Piano Diaries – Christmas” represents something more than a career milestone. It’s a return to simplicity.

“This album wasn’t about chasing hits,” he told The Blast. “It was about friendship, connection, and turning genuine Christmas memories into music. I want this album to be the soundtrack to real moments, a candlelit dinner, a quiet night by the tree, or a nostalgic drive. It’s about emotion, honesty, and rediscovering the magic in the familiar.”