Who's behind the notes? Discover Elvis Presley: The Definitive Biography
"Blue Christmas" is a classic holiday song originally recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957. Here are some interesting facts about Elvis Presley and his rendition of "Blue Christmas":
Release Date: Elvis recorded "Blue Christmas" on September 5, 1957, and it was released as a single in November of the same year. It has since become one of the most enduring and beloved Christmas songs.
Songwriter: The song was written by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson. It was first recorded by Doye O'Dell in 1948, but it was Elvis's version that made it a holiday classic.
Chart Success: "Blue Christmas" was a commercial success for Elvis Presley. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Christmas Singles chart and remained on the chart for over a month. It has been re-released and charted multiple times since.
Distinctive Sound: Elvis's rendition of "Blue Christmas" is known for its distinctive sound, combining his smooth vocals with a bluesy and country-inflected arrangement. It's a unique take on the holiday song, blending elements of rock and roll with traditional Christmas music.
Live Performances: Elvis often performed "Blue Christmas" during his live shows, and it became a staple of his holiday performances. His energetic stage presence and charismatic delivery made it a crowd favorite.
Cover Versions: Numerous artists have covered "Blue Christmas" over the years, but Elvis's version remains one of the most popular and enduring. Artists like Michael Bublé, Martina McBride, and Celine Dion have also recorded their versions.
Album Inclusion: The song is featured on Elvis's 1957 Christmas album, "Elvis' Christmas Album," which has become one of the best-selling Christmas albums of all time. It includes other holiday classics like "Santa Claus Is Back in Town" and "White Christmas."
Legacy: Elvis Presley's impact on popular music is immeasurable, and "Blue Christmas" is just one example of his ability to make a song uniquely his own. His contribution to the Christmas music genre is celebrated each holiday season as his songs continue to be played on the radio and in stores.
Cultural References: "Blue Christmas" has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a beloved holiday classic. It's a song that many people associate with the festive season.
Iconic Performance: Elvis's 1968 televised comeback special featured a memorable performance of "Blue Christmas." His charisma and energy during this performance added to the song's enduring popularity.
"Blue Christmas" is a timeless classic that continues to bring holiday cheer to people of all ages, and Elvis Presley's rendition of the song remains one of the most iconic and beloved versions ever recorded.