Scotch (adjective) "Scotch" to describe a jig, but always employed the term "Scottish" when people were the subject. "Scots" (the modern Scots language form of early Scots "Scottis") predominated in Scotland until the 18th century when anglicisation became fashionable and "Scotch" came to be used in both England and Scotland. A 1788 letter by Robert Burns says in part: "Apropos, is not the Scotch phrase "Auld lang syne" exceedingly expressive? There is an old song and tune which has often thrilled through my soul. You know I am an enthusiast in old Scotch songs." ("Auld Lang Syne" in "The Burns Encyclopedia", at
A Christmas Celebration of Hope and the track "Auld Lang Syne" earned King the award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance. "A Christmas Celebration of Hope" contains 13 tracks totaling approximately 48 minutes in length. Produced by B.B. King himself and recorded in Lafayette, Louisiana at Dockside Recording Studios in June 2001. Some of the songs, including "Merry Christmas, Baby" have roots in blues or rhythm and blues. Nashville String Machine contribute strings to three tracks. King had originally recorded "Christmas Celebration" in 1960. The instrumental "Christmas Love" marks King's only original track on the album (credited as Riley King). The album's closing track, an instrumental