Toby Keith, the rugged Oklahoman renowned for his bold, often politically charged country anthems, made a surprising detour into the realm of holiday cheer with his rendition of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”. The song, a timeless classic penned by Johnny Marks and popularized by Brenda Lee, found a new lease on life in the hands of the self-proclaimed “Redneck Philosopher”.
One might question the juxtaposition of Keith’s gritty, often controversial persona with the saccharine sweetness of a Christmas carol. Yet, this apparent incongruity is precisely what makes Keith’s version both intriguing and refreshing. It’s akin to discovering a hidden depth in a familiar landscape.
Background
Keith’s decision to tackle a Christmas standard is a bold one. Unlike many of his contemporaries who opt for original material or more contemporary covers, he dives headfirst into a song that has become synonymous with the holiday season.
In the case of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”, Keith has managed to strike a balance between reverence for the original and a distinctive country flavor. His deep, resonant voice lends a warmth and familiarity to the song, while his phrasing and delivery infuse it with a laid-back, good-natured charm.
Musically, the arrangement is a clever blend of traditional Christmas sounds and contemporary country elements. The inclusion of steel guitar and fiddle adds a touch of twang without overpowering the classic melody. The production is clean and crisp, allowing Keith’s vocals to take center stage.
While the song may not redefine the Christmas canon or challenge listeners in the way that some of Keith’s other work does, it is a delightful surprise. It showcases a different side of the artist, revealing a softer, more sentimental side to his personality.
In a world saturated with overproduced, formulaic holiday music, Keith’s version of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” is a welcome breath of fresh air.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Eh, rocking around the Christmas treeAt the Christmas party hopMistletoe hung where you can seeEvery couple tries to stopJust rocking around the Christmas treeLet the Christmas spirit ringLater we’ll have some pumpkin pieAnd we’ll do some carolingAh, you will get a sentimentalFeeling when you hearHe, voices singing let’s be jollyDeck the halls with boughs of hollyRocking around the Christmas treeHave a happy holidayEveryone’s dancing merrilyIn the new old-fashioned wayAh, you will get a sentimentalFeeling when you hearHe, voices singing let’s be jollyDeck the halls with boughs of hollyRocking around the Christmas treeHave a happy holidayEveryone’s dancing merrily