Introduction:
“Old Time Christmas,” featured on George Strait’s 1999 holiday album Merry Christmas Wherever You Are, captures a nostalgic take on Christmas, blending sentiment with the warmth of cherished memories. Written by Aaron Barker and John Jarvis, the song reflects Strait’s deep, resonant voice as he recalls Christmases of the past. With lyrics that evoke scenes of snowmen and toys under the tree, the song paints a portrait of simpler, more meaningful holidays that feel like “living in a Christmas card.” Although George Strait is synonymous with Texas and warm-weather Christmases, this song’s imagery reflects a traditional, snow-filled holiday, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the comforting nostalgia of Christmas classics.
The album itself includes several other notable tracks, but “Old Time Christmas” stands out for its tender melody and yearning tone. Known for his role in traditional country music, Strait brings his signature style to this holiday song, blending country instrumentation with themes of family and festivity. The album was well-received by fans, adding another layer to Strait’s legacy as one of country music’s most beloved artists and showcasing his versatility through his ability to deliver touching Christmas music that resonates with a universal audience.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Old Time Christmas”
Candy canes and candlelight
Tryin’ to stay awake all night
To catch a glimpse of Santa’s reindeer
Mama bakin’, sister makin’
Angels in the fallin’ snow
Now it seems so long ago
I wish they all were here[Chorus:]
We’d have an old time Christmas
An old time Christmas
Just like the ones from yesterday
We’d leave the world behind us
Let the spirit find us
And have an old time Christmas
For old times sakeFriends singin’, bells ringin’
Snowman standing in the yard
It’s a living Christmas card
Captured in our hearts forever
Friends scatter, it’s won’t matter
The magic never melts away
It only takes a Christmas Day
To make it reappear
[Chorus]
So leave the world behind you
Let the spirit find you
And have an old time Christmas
For old times sake