“Run Rudolph Run,” Chuck Berry, 1958
This song is one of the few that mentions Rudolph outside of the original song, and just like “If It Doesn’t Snow on Christmas” it also willfully ignores the ‘fact’ that Santa’s reindeer can fly.
Tag Archives: Christmas
My Favorite Christmas Songs #16
“Happy Xmas (War is Over),” John Lennon and Yoko Ono, 1971
Originally written as a protest song against the Vietnam War, this song has become a standard and has been covered by many artists. As far as I’m concerned, the song just isn’t without the same without the little exchange between John and Yoko at the top.
My Favorite Christmas Songs #15
“Last Christmas,” Wham!, 1984
Just like Winter Wonderland (from day 2), this is a synth-heavy tune performed by a duo in the 1980’s. How’s that for a coincidence?
My Favorite Christmas Songs #14
“Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town,” Bruce Springsteen, 1975
Recorded live at C.W. Post College in Greenvale, New York, The Boss sounds like he’s having a ball performing this staple. The banter between Bruce, The E Street Band, and the audience at the start adds an extra layer of fun to the song.
My Favorite Chirstmas Songs #13
“Wonderful Christmastime,” Paul McCartney, 1979
Paul McCartney has been accused of writing ‘Silly Love Songs’ by some folks. John Lennon supposedly chastised him for writing ‘granny music’ before the Beatles’ breakup. I unabashedly enjoy pop music myself, including this Christmas tune, and as Paul once sung: “What’s wrong with that?”
My Favorite Christmas Songs #12
“Feliz Navidad,” Jose Feliciano, 1970
While most (including myself) only know of Jose Feliciano through this Christmas staple, he has enjoyed international success for many years and was the first person to publicly perform “The Star Spangled Banner” in a non-traditional manner before Game 5 of the 1968 World Series. I will confess to getting just a small kick out of hearing non-Spanish speakers attempt to sing it. 😉
My Favorite Christmas Songs #10
“Santa Claus and His Old Lady,” Cheech and Chong, 1971
Our two favorite high guys present a more, shall I say, ‘urban’ take on Santa’s origin as Cheech tries to explain him to Chong with hilarious results. One of the comedy duo’s best routines, and one of the few you will actually hear on the radio, even in these overly PC times. Come on, Beto!
My Favorite Christmas Songs #9
“Do They Know It’s Christmas?” Band Aid, 1984
Recorded to raise money for Ethiopia famine relief, this song began the ‘charity single’ wave of the 1980s that reached its nadir (in the US, at least) with the release of “We Are The World” the following year. Primarily featuring artists from Britain and Ireland, the song’s lyrics, driving bass line, and Phil Collins’ drum work make it a good listen despite the somber subject matter.
My Favorite Christmas Songs #8
“White Christmas,” The Drifters, 1954
Penned by Irving Berlin, this Bing Crosby standard is credited with being the #1 selling single of all-time at 50 million copies. There’s nothing wrong with the original, but I have an affinity for The Drifters’ doo-wop version.
My Favorite Christmas Songs #7
“What Child is This,” Liona Boyd, 1981
There are many wonderful instrumentals based on Christmas songs. Liona’s rendition of “What Child of This” (which itself is set to the tune of ‘Greensleeves’) is a pleasure to listen to even outside of the Christmas season.
Eduardo Soliz 