What Is the Song From National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

When it comes to holiday movies, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a classic that has stood the test of time. One of the most memorable aspects of the film is its soundtrack, which includes a variety of festive tunes. However, there is one song in particular that has become synonymous with the movie – “Christmas Vacation” by Mavis Staples.

Who Is Mavis Staples?

Before we dive into the specifics of the song itself, let’s take a moment to talk about the artist behind it. Mavis Staples is an American singer, actress, and civil rights activist who has been performing since the 1950s. She began her career singing with her family’s gospel group, The Staple Singers, before branching out into a successful solo career.

The Story Behind “Christmas Vacation”

“Christmas Vacation” was written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil specifically for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. The song plays during the opening credits and sets the tone for the movie’s lighthearted and festive atmosphere.

The lyrics describe all of the chaos that comes along with preparing for Christmas – from tangled lights to crowded malls to relatives coming to visit. However, despite all of this stress and commotion, there is still an underlying sense of joy and excitement for the holiday season.

The Legacy of “Christmas Vacation”

Since its release in 1989, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation has become a beloved holiday classic that families watch year after year. And while there are certainly plenty of other Christmas songs out there, “Christmas Vacation” holds a special place in many people’s hearts thanks to its association with this timeless film.

In fact, Mavis Staples still performs the song regularly during her live shows and even released a special edition vinyl single in 2018 to commemorate its 30th anniversary.

In Conclusion

So there you have it – the story behind “Christmas Vacation” by Mavis Staples. Whether you’re a diehard fan of the movie or just love a good holiday tune, there’s no denying the catchy and festive spirit of this classic song. So next time you’re watching National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, be sure to turn up the volume and sing along!