"Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" is a classic Christmas song that has been covered by many artists and is a beloved part of the holiday season. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Origin: "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" was written by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector. It was originally recorded by Darlene Love and released as a single in 1963. Darlene Love was one of the singers from Phil Spector's famous girl group, The Crystals.
Phil Spector's "A Christmas Gift for You": The song is part of the famous Christmas album "A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector." The album was released in 1963 and is considered one of the greatest Christmas albums of all time, featuring other iconic holiday songs.
Wall of Sound: The song is known for its "Wall of Sound" production technique, which was a signature of Phil Spector's work. It involved layering multiple instruments and vocal tracks to create a rich and full sound. This production style contributed to the song's enduring appeal.
Annual Tradition: Since 1986, Darlene Love has performed "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" annually on the Late Show with David Letterman (and later with Stephen Colbert) during the Christmas season. This tradition became a beloved part of the show's holiday festivities and continued for nearly three decades.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" has been covered by numerous artists from various genres. Some notable covers include U2's rendition on the 1987 charity album "A Very Special Christmas," Mariah Carey's version on her 2010 holiday album "Merry Christmas II You," and Joey Ramone's punk-rock take on his album "Christmas Spirit... in My House."
Cultural Impact: The song has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, contributing to its lasting popularity. It has become a timeless classic that continues to be played and covered during the holiday season.
Influence: "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" has influenced the sound and style of many subsequent Christmas songs, making it an important part of the holiday music tradition. It is often considered one of the best Christmas songs ever recorded.
The song's combination of a powerful vocal performance by Darlene Love and Phil Spector's distinctive production style has helped it stand the test of time and remain a cherished part of Christmas music.