Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree"

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December 4, 2025 • 42 mins

In this festive Throwback Thursday episode from December 23rd, 2024, Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios dive into the story behind the beloved 1958 holiday classic "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree." They trace the song’s origins from the pen of Johnny Marks to Brenda Lee’s unforgettable vocal performance at just 13 years old, recorded under the guidance of Nashville legend Owen Bradley. The conversation explores the song’s rockabilly roots, nostalgic lyrics, and the standout saxophone solo that gives it an extra burst of holiday spirit. They also reflect on the track’s remarkable staying power, its boost from films like Home Alone, and Brenda Lee’s historic climb to the top of the charts in 2023—proving that some Christmas magic only gets stronger with time. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.css-14f5ked{margin:0;word-break:break-word;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;box-orient:vertical;-webkit-line-clamp:2;overflow:hidden;}Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree"