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"The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)" is a novelty Christmas song written by Ross Bagdasarian Sr. in 1958. Here are some interesting facts about this festive tune:

1. Creator and Voices:

   • The song was performed by Bagdasarian himself under the stage name David Seville.
   • Bagdasarian created three characters for the song: Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, who collectively formed the singing group The Chipmunks.

2. Speeding Up the Voices:

   • To achieve the high-pitched voices of the Chipmunks, Bagdasarian recorded the vocals at a slower speed and then played them back at a higher speed. This technique is known as "chipmunking."

3. Commercial Success:

   • "The Chipmunk Song" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Pop Singles Chart, becoming the only Christmas song to reach that position. It also won three Grammy Awards in 1959.

4. Sequels and Spin-offs:

   • The success of the song led to a series of albums featuring the Chipmunks, as well as numerous sequels and spin-off products, including an animated television series called "Alvin and the Chipmunks."

5. Pop Culture Impact:

   • The Chipmunks have become iconic characters in popular culture, with their voices and the song itself being widely recognized and parodied in various media.

6. Animated Specials:

   • In 1981, an animated Christmas special titled "A Chipmunk Christmas" was produced, featuring the Chipmunks and their adventures during the holiday season. It has since become a classic Christmas special.

7. The Song's Message:

   • The lyrics of the song depict the Chipmunks' excitement and impatience for Christmas. Alvin, in particular, expresses his desire for a hula hoop.

8. Cultural References:

   • The song has been referenced and featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials over the years, contributing to its enduring popularity.

"The Chipmunk Song" remains a beloved and timeless holiday classic that continues to bring joy to listeners during the Christmas season.