If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, then you’re probably familiar with its catchy theme song. But do you know who sings it? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the song and the artist behind it.
The Song: “Christmas Vacation”
The theme song from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is appropriately titled “Christmas Vacation.” It was written by husband and wife duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil. The song was specifically created for the movie and was never released as a single.
The Artist: Mavis Staples
The version of “Christmas Vacation” that appears in the movie is performed by Mavis Staples. If you’re not familiar with her work, Staples is a legendary gospel and soul singer who has been active since the 1950s. She began her career singing with her family’s group, The Staple Singers, before branching out into a successful solo career.
Staples’ Career
Staples’ powerful voice has earned her numerous accolades over the years. She has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Blues Hall of Fame, and she has won multiple Grammy Awards. In addition to her music career, Staples has also been an activist for civil rights causes.
Other Versions of “Christmas Vacation”
While Mavis Staples’ version of “Christmas Vacation” is arguably the most well-known, there have been other artists who have covered the song over the years. Some notable versions include:
- Kate Ceberano – Australian singer Kate Ceberano recorded a version of “Christmas Vacation” for her 1994 album Kate Ceberano and Friends.
- Mae – American rock band Mae covered “Christmas Vacation” for their 2005 EP (m)orning.
- Jeremiah Clark – In 2018, musician Jeremiah Clark released his own rendition of “Christmas Vacation” on his album Christmas with Jeremiah Clark.
In Conclusion
So there you have it – the theme song from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation was written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, and it was performed by the legendary Mavis Staples. While other artists have covered the song over the years, it’s Staples’ version that has become synonymous with the movie. Now every time you hear “Christmas Vacation,” you’ll know exactly who’s behind it.