About the Song
Released in 1985, “Merry Christmas Everyone” by Shakin’ Stevens is one of those rare holiday songs that instantly lifts the spirit from the first jingle of sleigh bells. With its bright melody, cheerful lyrics, and unmistakably 80s pop-rock production, it has since become a Christmas staple—particularly in the UK, where it remains a perennial favorite year after year.
Shakin’ Stevens, known throughout the ’80s for his rock ’n’ roll revival style and energetic stage presence, brought a sense of fun and retro warmth to this modern holiday classic. Dressed in a festive sweater, flashing a smile that could light up a Christmas tree, he delivered a song that perfectly captured the feeling of the season: carefree, joyful, and filled with the wide-eyed excitement of snow, presents, and singing carols with friends and family.
Originally intended for release in 1984, the song’s debut was postponed by a year to avoid clashing with Band Aid’s monumental charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” That decision paid off—when it finally hit the charts in December 1985, “Merry Christmas Everyone” soared straight to #1 on the UK Singles Chart, cementing its place in the holiday music canon.
Musically, it’s as cheerful as they come: sleigh bells, a bouncy piano, children’s choir backing vocals, and a sing-along chorus that’s impossible to resist. “Time for parties and celebration / People dancing all night long…” It’s a song built for family gatherings, holiday discos, and decorating the house with a little extra bounce in your step.
What makes it so enduring is its sense of innocence. There’s no irony, no hidden meaning—just the pure joy of Christmas, delivered with sincerity and a wink. For many who grew up in the ’80s (and their children and grandchildren today), Shakin’ Stevens’ “Merry Christmas Everyone” is part of the season’s soundtrack, right alongside Bing Crosby and Mariah Carey.
Decades later, it still gets the party started. It still makes people smile. And in a world that could always use a bit more merry, that’s no small gift.
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