Brenda Lee has established herself as an enduring presence in the country music scene, launching her career at a remarkably young age. The singer released her debut single, “Jambalaya (On The Bayou),” when she was just 11, marking the start of a 70-year journey filled with numerous songs and accolades.
Among her extensive catalog, memorable hits such as “I Want To Be Wanted,” “All Alone Am I,” and “Losing You” stand out. However, none have had the enduring cultural impact of her iconic holiday classic, “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree.” Released in 1958 when Lee was only 13, the song was penned by Johnny Marks and featured on her album, “Merry Christmas From Brenda Lee.” Over the decades, it has become a perennial favorite, solidifying its place in holiday music traditions.
In 2023, Lee commemorated the legacy of “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” by releasing a new music video that features renowned artists Trisha Yearwood and Tanya Tucker. This fresh visual representation has contributed to revitalizing interest in the classic, pushing it back to the top of music charts.
Brenda Lee fondly recalls the moment she first heard “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree.” It was brought to her by her producer, Owen Bradley, who believed in the song’s potential. Lee stated, “Owen just thought it’d be great to do a Christmas song that was really, really good,” emphasizing her desire to connect personally with the music she recorded. Her love and passion for the song played a significant role in its lasting success.
The song enjoyed a substantial boost in popularity after being featured prominently in the beloved holiday film, “Home Alone.” Lee shared an anecdote about how she was informed of her song’s role in the movie, which led to a renewed interest and appreciation for her classic piece. Reflecting on the trajectory of her career, she humbly mentioned, “I didn’t know if the song made $1, $5, $10. I was just doing what I love to do. And that was to sing.”
While Lee’s rendition remains the most cherished, other artists have also added their interpretations of “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” including Kacey Musgraves, Camilla Cabello, Justin Bieber, and Cyndi Lauper, among others. This highlights the song’s widespread influence across generations of music lovers.
Brenda Lee’s journey and her distinctive contributions to the music industry serve as a testament to her immense talent and the timeless nature of her work. As she continues to share her story through music, it brings hope to both her longtime fans and new listeners alike, affirming that the spirit of classic tunes lives on.