CHRISTMAS
A man with gospel music in his soul, Elvis adored Christmas – and neither militar y ser vice nor an attempted radio ban could dim his enthusiasm
Elvis Presley was a big fan of Christmas. He once said, “It really is the best season. The carols, trees and lights just grab you. There’s something about it and being home that I just can’t explain.
“Maybe it’s being with the family and with friends, time to read and to study. And of course, there are the snowball fights and sleigh rides and… yes, just home.”
For Elvis, Christmas was to be spent at home with loved ones. Throughout his 44 years of life, work and success took him all over the world – but no matter how far away he always tried to be home in Memphis for the holidays.
Elvis loved everything about Christmas, from the decorations to the opportunity to show his love for friends and family through extravagant gifts. These ranged from jewellery to new cars. He spared no expense – Elvis loved nothing more than the reactions he received.
Growing up poor meant that he never once took his fortune for granted. He was sentimental, humble and romantic. It was a holiday for love and family, and he wanted every year to be as perfect as in the movies.
Combining his love for Christmas with performance seemed like a natural path for Elvis, and having grown up as an active church member, he had gospel music flowing through his veins.
The vocals and harmonies were part of who he was, and with this came a natural talent to perform Christmas songs with soulful joy and melody. However, this was not without some backlash and difficulty. In his earlier years Elvis was seen as a rebel, particularly through his passionate dance moves and bad-boy title of King of Rock ’n’ Roll.
Luckily, he was already more than used to people criticising and doubting him, and the opinions of the press didn’t stop him from eventually dominating the Christmas charts.
Elvis’ Christmas Album came out in November, 1957 and fans went crazy. Featuring hits such as Blue Christmas and I’ll Be Home for Christmas, it quickly became one of the best selling Christmas albums in history.
Not only did Elvis face doubt and uncertainty, but also people fighting for his music to not be played at all. Now one of his most iconic Christmas songs, the
“There’s something about Christmas and being home
that I just can’t explain...”