What Is the Theme Song for National Lampoon Christmas Vacation?

By Anna Duncan

Are you a fan of the classic holiday movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation? If so, you may be wondering what the theme song is and where it came from.

Well, look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the history behind the iconic tune that sets the tone for this beloved film.

What is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

Before we dive into the theme song, let’s provide some context for those who may not be familiar with the movie. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a 1989 comedy film directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik and written by John Hughes. It stars Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold, a man determined to create the perfect family Christmas despite numerous obstacles.

The film has become a holiday classic over the years and is known for its hilarious and relatable portrayal of holiday chaos. But one of its most memorable features is its catchy theme song.

What Is The Theme Song For National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

The theme song for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is “Christmas Vacation,” written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil. The song was performed by Mavis Staples and produced by Matt Wallace.

The upbeat tune perfectly captures the spirit of the film with its cheerful lyrics and jingle bell accompaniment. It’s impossible not to sing along when you hear it!

The History Behind “Christmas Vacation”

So how did “Christmas Vacation” come to be? According to an interview with Barry Mann in The Hollywood Reporter, John Hughes approached him and Cynthia Weil about writing a song for the film after being impressed with their work on other projects.

Mann and Weil wrote “Christmas Vacation” specifically for the movie, tailoring it to fit the comedic tone of National Lampoon’s brand of humor. The lyrics reference various scenes from the film, such as Clark’s obsessive decorating and the disastrous Christmas dinner.

The song was recorded by Mavis Staples, a soul and gospel singer who had previously worked with Mann and Weil. Her powerful vocals add an extra layer of joy and energy to the already lively tune.

The Legacy of “Christmas Vacation”

Since its release, “Christmas Vacation” has become a holiday staple in its own right. It’s played on radio stations, featured in commercials, and covered by various artists. The song even inspired a holiday light show set to its infectious melody!

In addition to its musical legacy, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation continues to be a beloved film that captures the ups and downs of the holiday season. Its timeless humor and relatable characters make it a family favorite that will surely be enjoyed for generations to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Christmas Vacation” is more than just a catchy tune – it’s an integral part of one of the most beloved holiday movies of all time. Its upbeat melody and humorous lyrics perfectly capture the spirit of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, making it an essential addition to any holiday playlist. So next time you watch this classic movie with your family, be sure to sing along to the iconic theme song!