About The Song
Remember the holidays in the 1950s? The twinkling lights, the carols sung around the piano, and the excitement of waiting for Santa Claus? Well, for some folks, the holiday season got a whole lot cooler with the arrival of a new kind of Santa – a rock and roll Santa! In 1957, a young musician named Elvis Presley released a song that injected a dose of youthful energy and playful charm into the traditional Christmas repertoire – “Santa Claus Is Back In Town”.
“Santa’s Rock and Roll Ride” stands out from the typical carols of the era. While sleigh bells and choirs were common features, Elvis brought a rock and roll beat and a playful swagger to the Christmas scene. The song features a driving rhythm section, with a prominent slap bass line and a steady drumbeat, creating a festive and danceable atmosphere. Elvis’s vocals are full of energy and mischief, perfectly capturing the carefree spirit of the holidays.
The lyrics are a delightful twist on the traditional Santa story. Lines like “Well, it’s Christmas time, pretty baby / And the snow is fallin’ on the ground / You be a real good little girl / Santa Claus is back in town” replace the traditional reindeer and sleigh with a more modern mode of transportation – a big black Cadillac! This playful twist adds a touch of humor to the song, making it instantly memorable.
“Santa’s Rock and Roll Ride’s” brilliance lies in its ability to blend tradition with youthful energy. The song doesn’t stray far from the core message of Christmas – being good and receiving presents. However, it delivers it in a way that resonates with a younger generation, injecting a dose of rock and roll into the holiday season. The simple instrumentation, combined with Elvis’s infectious energy, creates a sonic landscape that’s both fun and festive.
“Santa’s Rock and Roll Ride” became a holiday staple for a new generation. It proved that Christmas music could be more than just traditional carols. Elvis Presley’s playful interpretation resonated with young listeners, reminding them that the holidays are a time for fun, joy, and of course, a little bit of rock and roll spirit.
So, put on your dancing shoes, crank up the volume, and let the festive energy of “Santa’s Rock and Roll Ride” by Elvis Presley wash over you. It’s a song that reminds us of the joy of the holidays, the enduring power of a playful spirit, and how music can bring people together to celebrate the season in a unique and memorable way.
Video