On Monday (12.04,), Brenda Lee‘s holiday classic “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 … 65 years after it’s initial release!
The song’s milestone comes six and a half decades after Lee first recorded the holiday classic in 1958 when she was just 13 years old, breaking the record for longest climb to #1. Brenda also surpassed the 25-year gap between Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” release in 1994 and its ascent to the top in 2019.
When informed of her historic accomplishment, the now 78-year old singer said “No! Me?” as she wiped away tears and hugged UMG Nashville CEO Cindy Mabe. “That’s fabulous. Wow… All these years. Mr. Marks would be proud” (referring to the late Johnny Marks, who wrote the 1958 song.)
“I cannot believe that ‘Rockin’’ has hit No. 1 65 years after it was released, this is just so special! “Thank you to the team at UMG/UMe who worked so hard to celebrate the song’s anniversary this year. But most importantly, thank you to the fans who keep listening.” “The song came out when I was a young teenager and now to know that it has resonated with multiple generations and continues to resonate — it is one of the best gifts I have ever received. Keep on Rockin’ and Merry Christmas!” said Lee.
In a press release, Brenda described the news as “amazing.”, sharing her enthusiasm and thanking UMG for promoting the song to the top of the chart.
In support of her latest #1 Billboard single, Lee recorded a music video for the beloved classic – featuring country music superstars Tanya Tucker and Trisha Yearwood – along with a new holiday EP.
Not her first #1, ‘Rockin’ …’ is Lee’s latest chart topper following her1960 singles “I Want to Be Wanted” and “I’m Sorry.” During that decade, Brenda had more Hot 100 entries than any other female artist with a total of 46, according to Billboard.
“When we recorded ‘Rockin,’ I knew it was magical,” Lee told Rolling Stone for a 2018 profile.
Keep up with the latest trending music news by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Author: Al Denté