Such a beautiful sad song. I don’t celebrate Christmas but I have been listening to this song non stop. I loooove the new verse about taking down the Christmas tree and being alone. The harmonica and piano add a little something to the song. I dug the 8 minute acoustic/electric full band version. However this acoustic version is like hot chocolate on a cold day. Blake is such a great song writer and so underrated.
Is this the Christmas Song from last year? The first time I heard it, I was alone in my classroom with it streaming from my computer into my main system and I stood stunned and tearing up. I still tear up. I makes you miss anyone who's not coming home~
Wow - I didn't realize the context of this song... really brings it front and center.
There's a remarkable HBO documentary about the newest section of Arlington Cemetery - listening to this song, I'm reminded of those families and my heart just aches for them...
I agree Stonyrunner, very poignant. I remember hearing The Christmas Song for the first time and just wanted to cry. The first version from the Ashland Coffee House 12-030-10 has a great Rod solo of Silent Night at the end. Blake had wanted to play The Christmas Song at the Otterhouse the night before. The crowd wasn't that excited about hearing a Christmas themed song and I shouted out "how about a Hanukkah song?" since it was the last night of Hanukkah. Blake said he never got a request for a Hanukkah song and played Pale Blue Eyes.
Here are the three copies from that evening. Give the Christmas Song a listen with Rod's Silent Night Solo at the end.
Merry Christmas to all my friends here on 5guitars, ones that I have met and ones that I will meet. This is a great bunch of people all who share a love of great music and positive vibes. I know 2012 is going to be great. Well at least until that whole Mayan thing goes down. Cheers y'all. In the spirit of the day
Love Christmas Vacation - the older I get, the more I can appreciate it! :)
It's really been great getting to know everyone here at 5Gs over the past year! I wish you all health and happiness in 2012! Merry Christmas, everyone!!!