Every December, a familiar piano intro and jingling bells fill the airwaves, immediately signaling the start of the festive season for millions. The song is, of course, 'Merry Christmas Everyone' by Shakin' Stevens, a track that has become as much a part of a British Christmas as turkey and tinsel. But what is the story behind this enduring anthem, and why does it continue to resonate so powerfully, year after year?
From Rock 'n' Roll to Christmas Roll
Before he became the king of Christmas, Shakin' Stevens was a major rock and roll revivalist in the UK. The early 1980s saw him scoring hit after hit, but it was in 1985 that he secured his musical immortality. The creation of 'Merry Christmas Everyone' was a deliberate attempt to craft the perfect festive pop song. Written by Bob Heatlie and Shakin' Stevens himself, the song was designed to be upbeat, optimistic, and filled with the simple, universal joys of the season—snow falling, everyone dancing, and the world looking to the new year with hope.
Its release was strategically delayed until November 1985 to maximize its Christmas impact, and the strategy worked perfectly. It soared to the top of the UK charts, becoming the Christmas Number One and cementing its place in the festive canon. The accompanying music video, featuring Shaky in a cozy, snow-covered scene with a cheerful family, perfectly visualized the warm, communal feeling the song evokes.
More Than a Song: A Time Capsule of Joy
The power of 'Merry Christmas Everyone' lies in its ability to act as a time capsule. For many of us, hearing those opening notes doesn't just mean Christmas is here; it instantly transports us back to specific moments. I can vividly remember one Christmas morning as a child, the smell of pine needles and roasting turkey filling the house, while this very song played on the radio in the kitchen. It was the soundtrack to the uncontainable excitement of seeing presents under the tree. That's the magic of such a cultural touchstone—it's a personal and collective memory, all wrapped into one catchy tune.
This is where the spirit of the season intersects with what we do at BSIMB. We believe in preserving and celebrating life's joyful moments. Just as a song like 'Merry Christmas Everyone' can instantly bring back a flood of memories, our digital picture frames are designed to do the same. Imagine a slideshow of your Christmas celebrations—the kids opening gifts, the family gathered around the dinner table, the silly paper hats from crackers—all cycling through on a beautiful digital display, with Shaky's classic playing softly in the background. It’s about creating a living, breathing centerpiece of your happiest memories.
Why We Keep Coming Back to Shaky
In a market flooded with Christmas songs, from Mariah Carey to Wham!, why does Shakin' Stevens hold such a special place? The answer is its unapologetic, pure joy. The song isn't melancholic or reflective; it's a three-minute burst of celebratory energy. The lyrics are simple and direct: 'Merry Christmas everyone!' It’s a universal greeting set to music. This straightforward message of well-wishing—whether you say 'Merry Christmas,' 'Happy Christmas,' or 'Merry Xmas'—is something everyone can understand and share.
Furthermore, its nostalgic quality is now multi-generational. Parents who heard it as kids in the 80s now play it for their own children, creating a new cycle of tradition. The question 'who sings Merry Christmas Everyone?' is often asked by younger listeners, only for them to discover the enduring legacy of Shakin' Stevens. It’s a song that connects the past to the present in the most delightful way.
Weaving the Song into Your Modern Traditions
Incorporating this classic into your holiday is easier than ever. It's a staple on every 'Merry Christmas Everyone' songs playlist on streaming services. But you can go beyond just listening. Use your smart devices to create a holiday routine. You can program your smart speaker to play a specific Christmas mix, including 'Merry Christmas Everyone,' at certain times of the day—perhaps during breakfast or while decorating the tree.
And for a truly modern twist, use a BSIMB digital calendar to count down to Christmas. These devices can do more than just display the date; they can show custom messages, family photos, and even sync with your music playlists. Imagine your digital frame transitioning from an Advent calendar display to a gallery of last year's Christmas photos, all while the festive soundtrack plays. It’s about using technology not to replace tradition, but to enhance it and make those moments of 'happy merry christmas everyone' more visual and immersive.
So, this year, when you hear those first few notes of Shakin' Stevens' timeless hit, take a moment. Let it transport you, let it fill you with that familiar cheer, and perhaps use it as an opportunity to create and capture new memories with your loved ones. After all, the desire to look back at our happiest times and wish a heartfelt 'merry christmas to everyone' is a feeling that will never go out of style.