The festive spirit shines bright in the latest holiday special, “A Very Carpool Karaoke Christmas,” featuring pop icons Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, and Chappell Roan. Released unexpectedly on Apple TV+ and Apple Music, this hour-long installment marks the return of the beloved “Carpool Karaoke: The Series” after a hiatus since its fifth season concluded 18 months ago.
Hosted by Zane Lowe, the special consists of three segments, each highlighting the artists’ unique personalities and talent while they cruise around in an SUV. The show kicks off with Lowe stepping in as the new driver, taking over from James Corden, who handed off the reins during a call from the UK.
During the segments, Lowe transports Roan through her Missouri hometown, along with Lipa as she prepares for a concert in Tokyo, and ultimately Gaga, who is en route to a studio session in Los Angeles. The musical journey features enthusiastic renditions of both classic holiday songs and the artists’ own chart-toppers. The highlight culminates in Lowe joining Gaga’s band to perform a lively version of “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” which will also be released as a standalone audio track.
The show skillfully blends contemporary entertainment with the essence of traditional Christmas variety specials. From Lipa’s take on the Ronettes’ “Sleigh Ride” to Roan’s rendition of Wham’s “Last Christmas,” each performance exudes energy and charisma, showcasing the artists’ vocal prowess and ability to connect with their audiences.
Notably, Gaga introduces her own spin on the holiday season with her playful original song, “Christmas Tree,” steering the dialogue towards the importance of holiday music that resonates with families. Roan brings a heartfelt element to the show, reflecting on her upbringing and her journey toward self-acceptance amidst challenges faced in her conservative hometown. The emotional scenes are interspersed with laughter and camaraderie, highlighting the love and support from her parents as they join the sing-along in the SUV, revealing a touching family dynamic.
The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by humorous moments, such as when Roan revels in her order of a decadent dessert at a local ice cream shop, expressing her preference for it over a Grammy. In keeping with the holiday theme, Gaga’s segment includes a surprise appearance by AC/DC’s singer Brian Johnson, creating a light-hearted and nostalgic moment for fans of both artists.
Amidst the holiday melodies, Lipa shares her aspiration to perform on stage, reminiscing about her childhood dream at a Katy Perry concert. This affirmation of following dreams serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of music and the holiday spirit.
The special encapsulates a message of love, acceptance, and celebration, allowing viewers to experience the joy of the season through the lens of cultural icons. As each artist shares personal stories amidst the melodies, it exemplifies the healing nature of music and the connections it fosters among people, making this Christmas special both entertaining and uplifting.
Summary: “A Very Carpool Karaoke Christmas” surprises fans with a holiday special featuring Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, and Chappell Roan, showcasing their talent and personal stories as they sing classic holiday songs and their hits while driving around. The show promotes themes of acceptance, family, and the joy of music, making it a delightful watch for the festive season. The moments of humor and emotional connections add depth to the celebration, promising to uplift viewers’ holiday spirits.