When Was 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' Made: Key Facts
'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' was made and first recorded in 1958 by Brenda Lee. The song was written by Johnny Marks and released as a single during the late‑fall holiday season of that year. While it initially charted modestly, it gained momentum through repeated radio play and has since become a modern Christmas standard. Below is a concise timeline of the song’s creation, release, and chart milestones.
Background and Writer
The song was written by prolific Tin Pan Alley and country songwriter Johnny Marks, who also penned 'Rudolph the Red‑Nosed Reindeer.' Marks composed 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' specifically as a secular, upbeat holiday anthem intended for radio and record. His publisher and demo recordings were prepared in advance of the 1958 release window, allowing the track to be positioned as a seasonal single.
Recording and Original Release
Brenda Lee recorded the song in 1958 for Decca Records under the production of Owen Bradley. The session took place in Nashville, Tennessee, and featured a full studio band typical of late‑1950s pop and country crossover recordings. The single was released in October 1958, timed to capture the holiday shopping and radio rotation season.
Chart Trajectory and Legacy
Initial chart response was modest, but 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' gained traction through seasonal radio play and television appearances. By the early 1960s, it had entered the broader national charts and has remained a holiday staple ever since. Its evergreen appeal stems from its upbeat tempo, memorable chorus, and association with classic holiday broadcasts.
Factual Timeline Table
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Year Written and Composed | 1958 | Music publisher and copyright records |
| Recording Session | 1958 | Studio session logs, Decca Records |
| Single Release Date | October 1958 | Decca catalog releases |
| Original Artist | Brenda Lee | Billboard chart history, label archives |
| Writer | Johnny Marks | ASCAP/BMI registration |
| Peak Chart Position | #6 on Billboard Hot 100 (2019) | Billboard chart data |
| Certification | Multi‑Platinum (digital streaming and sales) | RIAA and equivalent international boards |
Comparison of Notable Covers
While Brenda Lee’s version is the original, several high‑profile covers have entered the holiday canon. Below is a brief comparison of the most commercially and culturally significant renditions.
- Brenda Lee (1958) — Original hit; peaking in modern charts after viral resurgence.
- Kim Wilde and Mel Smith (1987) — Comic duet; notable for UK television exposure.
- Justin Bieber (2011) — Crossover pop version; introduced song to new streaming audiences.
- Pentatonix (2020) — A cappella arrangement; strong digital sales and streaming performance.
Streaming, Sales, and Modern Resurgence
Since the 2010s, 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' has experienced a surge in on‑demand streams, driven by curated holiday playlists and viral internet moments. Its resurgence was particularly pronounced in 2019, when it re‑entered the Billboard Hot 100 top 10. Digital sales and consistent holiday radio rotation continue to support strong annual performance metrics.
Public Performance and Licensing
The song is administered by music licensing bodies such as ASCAP and BMI. It is widely cleared for broadcast, streaming, and public performance during the holiday season. Publishers and rights holders manage synchronization licenses for film, television, and advertising use.
Summary
To directly answer the question: 'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' was made in 1958, recorded in Nashville with Brenda Lee, and released as a single in October of that year. Its journey from modest initial chart performance to modern holiday staple illustrates how seasonal recordings can achieve lasting cultural relevance when paired with strong production and ongoing media exposure.