What Is the Song at the Beginning of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, you’re probably familiar with the catchy tune that plays at the beginning of the film. The song is “Christmas Vacation” and it was written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil.

The Story Behind the Song

Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil are a husband-and-wife songwriting duo who have been active in the music industry since the 1960s. They have written many popular songs throughout their career, including “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” and “On Broadway.”

In an interview with Songfacts, Weil explained that they were approached to write a song for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation by the film’s director, Jeremiah Chechik. The director wanted a song that would capture the spirit of Christmas and that would be memorable to viewers.

The Lyrics

The lyrics to “Christmas Vacation” are fun and festive, capturing the excitement and chaos of the holiday season. Here’s a sample of some of the lyrics:

Haul out the holly
Put up the tree before
My spirit falls again
Fill up the stocking
I may be rushing things,
But deck the halls again now.

As you can see from these lines, Mann and Weil used playful language and rhyming to create a memorable holiday tune.

The Music

The music for “Christmas Vacation” was composed by Angelo Badalamenti. Badalamenti is best known for his work as a composer for films and television shows, including Twin Peaks and Blue Velvet.

The music for “Christmas Vacation” features jingle bells, horns, and a catchy melody that perfectly captures the holiday spirit.

The Legacy of the Song

Since its release in 1989, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has become a beloved holiday classic. The movie is often shown on television during the holiday season, and “Christmas Vacation” has become a popular addition to many people’s Christmas playlists.

The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Mavis Staples and Randy Travis. In 2014, the official music video for “Christmas Vacation” was released featuring scenes from the movie.

In Conclusion

“Christmas Vacation” is a fun and festive tune that perfectly captures the spirit of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, it’s no wonder that this song has become a holiday classic loved by many.