If you’re a fan of the classic holiday movie “Christmas Vacation,” you might find yourself humming along to the opening song. But what is that catchy tune, and why does it perfectly set the stage for the film?
The opening song in “Christmas Vacation” is none other than “Christmas Vacation” by Mavis Staples. The song was written specifically for the movie by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, two legendary songwriters who have worked on tracks for artists like Carole King and Phil Collins.
The song starts out with a jazzy, upbeat melody that instantly puts viewers in a festive mood. Staples’ soulful voice then kicks in with lyrics that perfectly capture the spirit of Christmas:
“It’s that time, Christmas time is here
Everybody knows there’s not a better time of year
Hear that sleigh, Santa’s on his way
Hippity-hoppin’, reindeer cloppin’, all is merry and bright”
As you can see, the song is full of playful language and vivid imagery that immediately conjures up images of holiday cheer. It’s hard not to smile when you hear Staples singing about Santa coming down the chimney or reindeer prancing through the snow.
In terms of structure, “Christmas Vacation” follows a classic verse-chorus-verse pattern. The verses describe various aspects of Christmas (like caroling or trimming the tree), while the chorus repeats the central theme: “It’s that time, Christmas time is here.”
One thing that sets this song apart from other holiday tunes is its use of brass instruments like trumpets and saxophones. The brass gives the track a big band feel that harkens back to classic Christmas songs from decades past.
Another standout element of “Christmas Vacation” is its use of harmonies. Staples’ vocals are layered over one another in certain parts of the song, creating a lush, full sound that’s reminiscent of gospel music.
Overall, “Christmas Vacation” is the perfect opening song for the movie of the same name. It’s playful, festive, and instantly puts viewers in a happy mood. So next time you watch the film, be sure to sing along to this catchy tune!
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Christmas Vacation” by Mavis Staples is a beloved holiday song that perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas. With its jazzy melody, playful lyrics, and use of brass and harmonies, it’s no wonder why this track has become a classic over the years. So whether you’re watching the movie or just looking for some festive tunes to put on your holiday playlist, be sure to add “Christmas Vacation” to your rotation!