Blue Christmas by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson

Introduction

“Blue Christmas” is a beloved holiday song that captures the melancholy side of the festive season. Written by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson, the song has become an enduring Christmas classic, particularly known for its heartfelt lyrics that express longing and heartache during what is typically a joyous time of year.

Blue Christmas by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson Lyrics

Lyrics

I’ll have a blue Christmas without you
I’ll be so blue just thinking about you
Decorations of red on a green Christmas tree
Won’t be the same dear, if you’re not here with me

And when those blue snowflakes start falling
That’s when those blue memories start calling
You’ll be doing all right
With your Christmas of white
But I’ll have a blue, blue, blue, blue Christmas

You’ll be doing alright
With your christmas of white
But I’ll have a blue, blue, blue, blue Christmas

You’ll be doing all right
With your Christmas of white
But I’ll have a blue, blue, blue, blue Christmas

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History

“Blue Christmas” was originally written by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson in 1948. It was first recorded by Doye O’Dell that same year, but it wasn’t until country music legend Ernest Tubb released his version in 1949 that the song gained significant popularity. However, the rendition that truly solidified “Blue Christmas” as a holiday staple was recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957. Featured on his “Elvis’ Christmas Album,” Presley’s version of the song became iconic, with his deep, emotive voice perfectly conveying the song’s theme of holiday heartache.

Elvis’s rendition brought “Blue Christmas” into the mainstream, and it has since been covered by countless artists across various genres. The song’s mix of country, blues, and rock elements, combined with its poignant lyrics, resonated with listeners who found themselves experiencing a less-than-merry holiday season. Over the years, “Blue Christmas” has been embraced as a symbol of the more reflective and sometimes sorrowful side of the holidays, standing out among the typically upbeat and cheerful Christmas songs.

Conclusion

“Blue Christmas” remains a significant part of the holiday music repertoire, offering a counterpoint to the usual cheerfulness of the season with its somber tone and relatable message of love and longing. The song’s enduring popularity, particularly through Elvis Presley’s version, has ensured its place as a classic that continues to touch hearts during the festive season. As one of the most famous Christmas songs, “Blue Christmas” serves as a reminder that the holidays can evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy to nostalgia to heartache.