Ride, Red, Ride!

This is the one holiday tune you must hear because some songs break the mold. Ella’s version of Santa Claus is Coming to Town literally redefines holiday joy. (2 min) 

What is it about holiday music that reaches into our consciousness, igniting memories that set our expectations for upcoming celebrations? 

Some festive songs always lift us. Other melodies weigh us down when repeated ad nauseum in bricks and mortar retail. But a remake has the power to can shake us out of weepy nostalgia (positive or otherwise), and bring fresh spirit to this moment. 

Traditions aren’t a bad thing. Christmas trees bring the smell of pine, holiday baking infuses cinnamon and nutmeg, reading ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas or watching Love Actually for the 17^th time can bring togetherness and goodness. 

And, we can also look for what’s new. Decorate to a different drummer than the little drummer boy. Learn how other cultures celebrate. Re-invent a recipe with ras-el-hanout, give gifts to neighbors we haven’t even met, or write a holiday limerick.

Let’s embrace the pulse of the present and get creative in bringing joy! It’s fun to combine the best of tradition with playful invention. 

My husband and I once hosted a New Years Day Pajama Brunch. Our friends arrived in PJs—one even rode the train up from Manhattan before public PJs were cool. Ride, Red, Ride! 

That is living as music.

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Did you miss last month’s adorable otter? Meet Leya, whose life was saved by music.