Introduction
In the vast and joyous expanse of holiday music, there are certain artists who bring their unique flair to familiar carols, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to the spirit of the season. Then there are those who craft original festive tunes that immediately feel like timeless additions to the Christmas canon. Dwight Yoakam is, without question, one such artist. His distinctive Bakersfield sound, characterized by its sharp twang, driving rhythms, and an unmistakable reverence for traditional country and honky-tonk, might not be the first thing one associates with jingling bells and snowmen. Yet, his ability to infuse genuine warmth and heartfelt emotion into his music makes his holiday offerings particularly endearing. Today, I want to guide you through a truly spirited and remarkably authentic example: “Come on Christmas.”
Released in 1997 as the title track from his delightful album Come on Christmas, “Come on Christmas” quickly became a cherished addition to many holiday playlists. It’s a song that courageously articulates the universal anticipation and excitement leading up to the most wonderful time of the year. It speaks with a stark clarity about the joy of the season, the yearning for familiar traditions, and the simple pleasure of coming together. For those of us who appreciate country music that captures the innocent wonder of the holidays and the profound comfort of enduring traditions with honesty and empathetic understanding, this track offers a beautifully rendered narrative of festive cheer and quiet anticipation.
What makes “Come on Christmas” so impactful is its exquisite blend of lyrical cheer and its effortlessly classic country sound. The arrangement is robust and dynamic, practically inviting you to tap your foot and hum along from the first note. It’s built upon a foundation of driving drums, a prominent and melodic bassline, and of course, the unmistakable, spirited whine of a steel guitar weaving in and out, creating a rich, layered soundscape that feels both traditional and incredibly fresh. The electric guitar breaks are concise, lively, and perfectly placed, adding bursts of energy without ever veering into excess. There’s a joyful, almost rollicking pace to the song, allowing each energetic phrase to resonate with compelling urgency and an undeniable sense of holiday spirit. Yoakam’s vocal performance here is simply masterful. His signature sharp, almost clipped vocal style, infused with his characteristic drawl, perfectly embodies the excited anticipation and pure enjoyment of someone eagerly awaiting the festive period. He sings not with overly saccharine sweetness, but with the focused, almost ecstatic urgency of someone truly immersed in the moment and ready to embrace the season’s magic.
Lyrically, “Come on Christmas” is a direct and enthusiastic invitation for the holiday season to arrive. The narrator expresses a profound eagerness for all the familiar trappings of Christmas – the lights, the family gatherings, the comforting routines, and the general feeling of goodwill. The song vividly portrays the feeling of the season as a much-needed respite, a time for warmth, connection, and renewal after the year’s hustle and bustle. It captures the essence of a universal human experience: the need for celebration, for joy, and for the simple pleasure of shared festivities. Phrases like “Come on Christmas, I need you now / Make my whole world right somehow” perfectly encapsulate this irresistible urge, highlighting the transformative power of the holidays to lift spirits and bring comfort. It’s a narrative that avoids overly complex metaphors, instead offering an honest portrayal of the profound emotional and communal comfort that can be found in a lively country tune steeped in holiday cheer.
For long-time admirers of Dwight Yoakam, “Come on Christmas” is a cherished example of his profound artistry and his consistent ability to craft songs that delve into the delicate nuances of human emotion and the vibrant energy of the holidays. It showcases his remarkable talent for translating universal desires for joy and togetherness into relatable, heartfelt narratives. For listeners new to his extensive body of work, this song serves as an excellent introduction to an artist who consistently provides substance, integrity, and timeless wisdom through his music, proving that sometimes, the greatest profound joys are found in simply welcoming the most wonderful time of the year. So, if you’re seeking a moment of pure exhilaration and honest festive spirit, allow Dwight Yoakam‘s “Come on Christmas” to resonate with your spirit and fill your home with cheer