Shakin’ Stevens – Merry Christmas Everyone
Let’s talk about “Merry Christmas Everyone” by Shakin’ Stevens, a staple of the holiday season for many. This isn’t your quiet, reflective carol; it’s a full-blown, energetic Christmas anthem, designed to get everyone up and dancing. For those of us who remember its release in the mid-80s, it’s a blast of festive nostalgia, a reminder of a time when Christmas pop songs were big, bold, and unapologetically cheerful.
Released in 1985, “Merry Christmas Everyone” quickly climbed the charts, becoming a UK Christmas number one. This wasn’t Shakin’ Stevens’ first foray into the charts, of course. He’d already established himself as a successful rock and roll revivalist, but this song cemented his place in Christmas music history. It’s a track that’s been played countless times in shopping malls, at holiday parties, and on radio stations around the world, becoming a familiar sonic backdrop to the festive period.
What makes “Merry Christmas Everyone” so enduring? Firstly, it’s undeniably catchy. The melody is simple yet effective, instantly memorable and guaranteed to get stuck in your head. It’s the kind of song that encourages spontaneous singalongs, even if you don’t quite know all the words. Secondly, the song perfectly captures the feeling of Christmas excitement and anticipation. The lyrics paint a picture of snow falling, families gathering, and the general sense of joy that surrounds the holiday.
Musically, the song is a product of its time. It features a big, anthemic production style, with prominent drums, layered vocals, and a driving rhythm. It’s not subtle or understated; it’s designed to fill a room with sound and create a party atmosphere. This production style, while perhaps a little dated by today’s standards, is a key part of the song’s charm. It evokes a specific era of pop music and adds to the overall sense of nostalgia.
Shakin’ Stevens’ vocal performance is also crucial to the song’s success. His distinctive, slightly gravelly voice gives the track a sense of character and energy. He delivers the lyrics with enthusiasm and conviction, conveying the festive spirit with genuine warmth. It’s not a technically complex vocal performance, but it’s perfectly suited to the song’s style and mood.
“Merry Christmas Everyone” isn’t a song that tries to be anything it’s not. It’s a straightforward, feel-good Christmas pop song that aims to bring a smile to people’s faces. And in that, it succeeds admirably. It’s a classic of its kind, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that continues to be enjoyed by generations of listeners. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things are the most effective, especially when it comes to capturing the spirit of Christmas.