The 12 Records of Yule: #5 Elvis’ Christmas Album by Elvis Presley
As the holiday season approaches each year, the timeless sounds of Christmas music permeate the air, igniting nostalgia and holiday spirit in listeners of all ages. Among the glittering array of seasonal albums, few have shone as brightly as Elvis’ Christmas Album. Released on October 15, 1957, this record is not only a cornerstone of Elvis Presley’s illustrious career but also a defining piece of Americana that has influenced generations of music lovers and holiday traditions alike. In this fifth installment of our 12 Records of Yule series, we delve into the history and evolution of this iconic album, exploring its cultural significance, musical content, and the controversies that surrounded its release.
Birth Of A Holiday Classic
Recorded at Radio Recorders in Hollywood, Elvis’ Christmas Album was Presley’s third studio album and his first foray into the realm of holiday music. Featuring a blend of secular and sacred songs, the album showcased the King of Rock and Roll’s unique ability to bridge genres. Its tracklist included six popular Christmas songs, two traditional carols, and four gospel tracks, the latter of which had previously appeared on the EP Peace in the Valley. The album’s format mirrored that of Frank Sinatra’s A Jolly Christmas, which had been released just a month earlier, with a clear division between secular tunes and traditional hymns.
The opening track, “Santa Claus Is Back in Town,” written by the legendary songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, set the tone for the album. With its bluesy rock and roll vibe, the song captured the energy of the emerging rock genre while simultaneously embracing the joyous spirit of Christmas. Meanwhile, the inclusion of classics like “White Christmas” and “Silent Night” firmly anchored the album in tradition.
Chart-Breaking Success
Upon its release, Elvis’ Christmas Album quickly ascended to the top of the charts, spending an impressive four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart. It was a landmark achievement for Presley, solidifying his status as a cultural icon and paving the way for future Christmas albums. The album was reissued in various formats over the years and has since achieved Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), indicating shipments of at least 17 million copies in the U.S. alone. With total worldwide sales exceeding 20 million, it remains the best-selling Christmas album of all time.
Controversy And Cultural Impact
However, the album was not without its controversies. The inclusion of “White Christmas” sparked outrage from its composer, Irving Berlin, who deemed Presley’s rendition a “profane parody” of his cherished classic. Berlin’s vehement objections led to a flurry of calls to radio stations, demanding that the song be banned from airplay. While many stations ignored Berlin’s requests, the controversy highlighted the racial and cultural tensions of the time.
Interestingly, the original version of “White Christmas” by The Drifters—a group known for their soulful sound—had been met with far less backlash when it was released in the mid-1950s. Presley’s version, which drew inspiration from The Drifters, who copied the original doo wop arrangement of White Christmas by The Ravens from 1948, brought renewed attention to the original but also underscored the disparities in how music by Black artists was received compared to that of a white artist in the racially charged atmosphere of the era.
The Art Of Packaging
The album’s packaging also played a crucial role in its legacy. Early pressings featured a striking red gatefold cover with an attached booklet filled with promotional photos from Presley’s film Jailhouse Rock. The album’s allure was further enhanced by a gold foil price tag-shaped “gift giving” sticker, making it a coveted item for fans and collectors alike. Original copies with this sticker intact have become some of the most valuable artifacts in the Elvis Presley catalog.
A Lasting Legacy
As we reflect on Elvis’ Christmas Album, it is evident that its significance extends far beyond holiday music. It encapsulates a pivotal moment in cultural history, where rock and roll intersected with traditional holiday themes, creating a sound that resonates with listeners to this day. The album’s capacity to evoke memories and instill festive cheer has solidified its place in the pantheon of Christmas classics.
In a world that continues to grapple with issues of race, cultural appropriation, and the evolution of music, Elvis’ Christmas Album remains a powerful testament to the enduring impact of art on society and the ways in which music can bring us together, even across divides. As the holiday season approaches each year, the sounds of Elvis Presley remind us of the joy, love, and unity that Christmas embodies, making it an indispensable part of our Yule celebrations.
Stay tuned for the next installment in our 12 Records of Yule series, as we continue to explore the magical world of holiday music and its rich history.