Introduction

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While Mariah Carey may belt out the Christmas wish for a significant other most prominently, Alan Jackson offers a more playful and country twist on the sentiment with “I Only Want You for Christmas.” This toe-tapping tune actually came from the pens of songwriters Tim Nichols and Zack Turner, known as the duo Turner Nichols, in the early 1990s.

The song landed in the perfect hands when it reached country music superstar Alan Jackson. Released in 1993 on his first Christmas album, “Honky Tonk Christmas,” “I Only Want You for Christmas” became an instant favorite. The album itself was a success, showcasing Jackson’s signature neotraditional country style with a festive flair. Two tracks, including “I Only Want You for Christmas,” even charted on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

“I Only Want You for Christmas” is a lighthearted, upbeat ode to prioritizing your loved one over the typical presents and decorations. The song’s memorable chorus features the playful line, “I only want you for Christmas, baby / Tie a ribbon around yourself,” perfectly capturing the spirit of wanting nothing more than spending the holidays with that special someone. So crank up the volume, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready for a dose of Christmas cheer with a country twist!

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