Monday, January 6, 2014

Questionable Seasonal Music

As we bid farewell to the Christmas/Holiday Season of 2013-2014, it is time to reflect and discard those seasonal tunes that just grate the nerves.  Now, I know some of you really love some of these tunes, so I will preface this posting with the following caveat: These are melodies that cause my teeth to be on edge.  You actually may cherish them as personal favorites.  Here goes:

1. "Blue Christmas"...now I know many of you do love this one recorded by the King of Rock and Roll himself, and others in loving tribute, but I just can't get over how it has just become a parody of what Elvis could do as an artist.  I do not want to remember him muttering "Blue, blue, blue...", But, hey, that's me.  I prefer the nuance of "I Can't Help Falling in Love with you"  The melody is based on "Plaisir d'Amour".  It was featured in the film, "Blue Hawaii". Take at look at these.  You can compare and contrast.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KK6sMo8NBY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqv5b0UjR4g



   2. "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" was written for the cartoon "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and the lyrics were indeed written by Theodor Geisel, Dr. Seuss himself.  I will not miss hearing this for another year.
Burl Ives: Silver and Goldhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wgosPXVWUM 

3. "Silver and Gold" was written for the Christmas cartoon "Rudolph,, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" that featured Burl Ives as the narrator and singer. I have seen this rendition several times, since Erin and Ian like to watch the video...although Erin is not crazy about the "Snow Monster" It was later recorded by Vanessa Williams on her holiday album.  It has become a minor hit due to its airtime during the holidays...I am happy to let this one go for another year.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY-XDQN6ipE


Vanessa Williams Photo: 202933. Images sourced by Last.fm4."Merry Christmas, Darling"... And speaking of Vanessa, who has such a lovely voice, I am not quite sure about this one.  It has great potential, but just seems to miss the mark.  She sings it impeccably.  Maybe this one can grow on me  I will listen to it again, maybe, next Christmas season.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5g4lnZkfjk
 
And finally:

5."GrandmaGot Run Over by a Reindeer"...which when I first heard it, was hilarious.  It recounts what happens to the matriarch of a family when she over does the eggnog and has an unpleasant encounter with a guy in a red suit driving a flying sled with a herd of reindeer. But now...Enough Already!!! Pack it away for next year...RIGHT NOW!         



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgIwLeASnkw  
of "Grandma Got Run Over

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