Was the Song Christmas Vacation Written for the Movie?

By Robert Palmer

Have you ever wondered if the popular Christmas song “Christmas Vacation” was written specifically for the movie of the same name? Well, we’ve done some digging and have some answers for you.

What is Christmas Vacation?

First, let’s talk about the movie “Christmas Vacation.” This classic holiday film was released in 1989 and quickly became a fan favorite. Starring Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, the movie follows his attempts to create a perfect Christmas for his family, which of course, goes awry in hilarious ways.

The Song “Christmas Vacation”

Now, onto the song. “Christmas Vacation” was written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil and performed by Mavis Staples. The song was released in 1989 to coincide with the film’s release.

But Was it Written Specifically for the Movie?

So, here’s where things get interesting. While “Christmas Vacation” was not originally written for the movie, it does play a crucial role in one of its most memorable scenes.

In the scene, Clark Griswold is trapped in his attic while trying to find old home movies. As he watches them on an old projector, “Christmas Vacation” plays in the background.

The use of this song in this scene is particularly poignant because it captures what Clark is striving for throughout the entire movie – a perfect family Christmas.

Conclusion

So while “Christmas Vacation” wasn’t originally written specifically for the movie, its inclusion in one of its most memorable scenes has forever linked it to this beloved holiday classic.

In conclusion, whether you’re watching “Christmas Vacation” or simply listening to its soundtrack, you can enjoy this fun and festive tune knowing that while it wasn’t originally written for the movie itself, it has become an integral part of its legacy.