Music enthusiasts are marveling at the young age of Brenda Lee when she recorded her iconic holiday hit, “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree.” Released in 1958, this festive favorite gained immense popularity, notably featuring in the beloved 1990 film “Home Alone.”
The rockabilly classic, penned by Johnny Marks, was recorded by Lee when she was just 13 years old. The song continues to resonate with audiences today, having been covered by a diverse range of artists, including John Travolta and Justin Bieber.
According to the Official Charts Company, the single made its UK chart debut at Number 30 in early November 1962. It quickly climbed the rankings, eventually peaking at Number 6 just a month later, solidifying its status as a Christmas staple. Its inclusion in “Home Alone” further cemented its place in holiday music history, featuring in a memorable scene where Kevin McCallister, portrayed by Macauley Culkin, cleverly tricks would-be burglars into thinking his house is occupied.
Recently, a TikTok user sparked a conversation about Lee’s age during the recording, leaving many astonished to learn that this classic was brought to life by a teenager. Comments flooded in, with reactions like “She sounds middle-aged,” and “I still have a hard time believing it,” illustrating the surprise and admiration for her vocal talent at such a young age.
Numerous artists have added their own twist to “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” including the popular boy band Hanson and renowned singer Cliff Richard. In 1987, a rendition by Kim Wilde and Mel Smith was released to support Comic Relief.
In a 2019 interview, Brenda Lee, affectionately known as “Little Miss Dynamite,” reflected on the song’s journey, sharing that she never fully understood why Marks chose her for the recording. “I had not had a lot of success in records, but for some reason, he heard me and wanted me to do it. And I did,” she said.
The enduring allure of “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” serves as a reminder of the timeless nature of music and its power to evoke nostalgia and joy during the festive season. With new generations discovering Brenda Lee’s remarkable talents, her legacy continues to shine brightly in the world of music.