Santa’s Going South – Toby Keith & Sammy Hagar

Introduction:

Not all Christmas songs involve snowy landscapes and reindeer. In 2011, country music star Toby Keith and rock legend Sammy Hagar teamed up for a unique holiday tune titled “Santa’s Going South”. This unexpected duet injects a dose of sunshine and beach vibes into the traditional winter wonderland imagery of Christmas music.

The song, released in the lead-up to the 2011 holiday season, isn’t your typical Christmas carol. Keith, known for his patriotic anthems and country rock hits, joins forces with Hagar, the former frontman of Van Halen, to create a lighthearted and humorous song about Santa Claus taking a well-deserved vacation.

While details about the song’s production are scarce, it likely reflects the personalities of the two artists. Keith, known for his polished production style and strong vocals, likely brings a country music foundation to the song. Hagar, with his background in rock and roll, might contribute a more energetic and guitar-driven sound.

“Santa’s Going South” didn’t achieve the chart success of a typical Christmas hit. However, it garnered attention for its unique take on the holiday season. The novelty of a country-rock duet combined with the lighthearted theme of Santa’s escape from the North Pole resonated with some listeners. The song also showcased the camaraderie between the two artists, who were known to be friends outside of music.

While the song might not be a staple on every Christmas playlist, it serves as a reminder that the holiday season can be interpreted in various ways. “Santa’s Going South” offers a fun and unconventional perspective, appealing to those who might prefer a tropical escape to a snowy wonderland for their holiday celebrations.7

Video:

Lyrics:

“Santa’s Going South”
(with Sammy Hagar)

It’s freezin’ in Chicago
Snowin’ in Toronto,
Manhattan ain’t too happy baby
It’s pourin’ rain in San FranciscoAin’t gonna be no white Christmas
Ain’t gonna be no reindeer
Ain’t gonna be no sleigh bells ringing
Not around here

I’m packing my tank tops
My board shorts and my flip flops
I take the first class non-stop
Down Mexico way.

Yeah, cause Santa’s going south for Christmas
Santa’s going south this year, yea yea yea
I said Santa’s going south for Christmas (this Christmas)
And he won’t be back ’til summer’s here.

I’m talkin’ ’bout jet-skis,
Margaritas and palm trees
Now get me out of this deep freeze
eighty five degrees

Yeah, I’m packing my tank tops
My board shorts and my flippity flops
I take the first class non-stop
Down Mexico way.

Yeah, Santa’s going south for Christmas
Santa’s going south this year,
I said Santa’s going south for Christmas (this Christmas)
And he won’t be back ’til summer’s here.

Now Santa’s gettin old, I can’t take this much cold (Brrrr!)

I’m packing my old guitar
My board shorts and my good cigar
First class like a rockstar
Down Mexico way.

Yeah, now Santa’s going south for Christmas
I said Santa’s going south this year, yea yea yea
Santa’s going south for Christmas (this Christmas)
And I won’t be back ’til summer’s here.

I said I ain’t comin’ back ’til summer’s here…