Introduction:
“Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)” is a lively Christmas rock and roll song recorded by Elvis Presley in 1957. Written by Aaron Schroeder and Claude Demetrius, the track showcases Presley’s dynamic vocal style, blending festive themes with the energetic rhythms characteristic of early rock and roll.
The recording session took place on September 7, 1957, with backing vocals provided by the Jordanaires, a gospel quartet that frequently collaborated with Presley. The song was featured on the RCA Victor release “Elvis’ Christmas Album,” which included a mix of popular Christmas songs, traditional carols, and gospel numbers. This album became a significant success, contributing to the popularization of rock and roll interpretations of holiday music.
Upon its release, “Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)” was included in an RCA Victor 45 EP (EPA-4108) alongside “Santa Claus Is Back in Town,” “Blue Christmas,” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” This EP reached number one on the Billboard EP chart, reflecting the song’s popularity during the holiday season. In the United Kingdom, the track was paired with “Santa Claus Is Back in Town” and issued as a single, reaching number seven on the UK Singles Chart in November 1957.
Over the years, “Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)” has been covered by various artists, highlighting its enduring appeal. Notable versions include those by Mae West for her 1967 album “Wild Christmas,” the Reverend Horton Heat on their 2005 album “We Three Kings,” and Train’s rendition for their 2015 album “Christmas in Tahoe.” The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody have made it a staple on holiday playlists, showcasing the seamless fusion of rock and roll energy with festive cheer that Elvis Presley masterfully delivered.
“Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)” remains a testament to Elvis Presley’s influence in shaping the sound of modern Christmas music, blending traditional holiday themes with the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. Its continued popularity underscores the timelessness of Presley’s music and his ability to infuse even the most traditional subjects with a fresh and exciting perspective.