There is still more than a month till Christmas but already “Santa Claus is Rockin’”, thanks to its gloriously festive, infectious sound, is quickly making its way beyond its native Ireland and onto seasonal radio playlists Stateside and worldwide. Original, energetic and filled with simply good cheer, it’s the budding new Christmas hit that we’ve been missing this whole millennium, a welcome bit of optimism and sweetness in a time of global chaos. It has already been played on national and regional radio in Ireland, the UK, USA and the Netherlands and on various online radio outlets, including Christmas fm. Proceeds from the song will go to Ireland’s largest children’s charity, Barnardos.
Driven by a seamless fusion of pop, jazz and rock and the joyful can’t-wait-till-the-big-guy-in-the-red-suit-gets-here themed lyrics of songwriter Glen Shire, the track and its equally irresistible, merry and bright video is a powerful showcase for the charismatic NYC born, Dublin-based vocalist Bradley Gillis and his soulful, velvety tones that make him one of pop music’s premiere emerging artists and performers. A full scale, uplifting offering from “the olde country,” the track was produced at the world famous Windmill Lane Studios, site of classic sessions for everyone from U2 and Metallica to R.E.M., The Rolling Stones, Willie Nelson and David Bowie.
In a swirl of holiday cheer, the production by Simon Shire (also Executive Producer) brought together some 70 talented participants, including the nationally renowned, award winning 20-piece children’s choir Piccolo Lasso, an orchestral section, powerhouse backing singers and top Irish musicians/producers who have worked with Van Morrison, Genesis, The Cranberries, Andrew Lloyd-Webber, Westlife, Chris Rea, U2, Imelda May, Mike and the Mechanics, Riverdance and many more. Maurice Linnane, director of the video for “Santa Claus is Rockin’”, has filmed documentaries for U2, The Cranberries and Foo Fighters.
Explaining the song’s inspiration, its composer, Glen Shire, says, “Santa Claus is Rockin’” is a musical interpretation of the innocence of a child’s limitless imagination at Christmas, and an attempt to offer ‘grown-ups’ a magic carpet ride back to that perfect, blissful place in their childhood memories. While the festive season promises to be thrilling for most children who believe in it, it can be an extremely depressing time for some adults and children alike who are not so fortunate. With that in mind, the lyrics offer up pointers and imagery to help reconnect one’s self to a happier version, when life was sweet, innocent and uncomplicated. That for me is the spirit and heart of the song: reflecting, rebooting and rewarding yourself. Rhythmically, it is intended as a party song, a festive anthem, an ode to Santa Claus and above all, a salutation to children of all ages during the season of goodwill.”
Glen’s brother, Simon, Executive Producer/co-producer of the track, adds, “I had some children’s charities in mind for a yuletide release when conjuring up the crazy notion of producing a Christmas song. Having the good fortune at the time to be studying at Windmill Lane, I had access to a world-class studio, a Neve desk and a plethora of music legend contacts. I called Glen in July to ask would he be interested in writing a Christmas classic – no biggy, right? The very next day Glen had written the song, which had immediate appeal. It was cheerful, memorable and catchy even at rough-take vocals and guitar stage. Our session musicians demonstrated a masterclass on how to record to industry standard. First take. They were at the top of their game and it was a privilege to watch them in action. We have accomplished what we set out to achieve when we bring a smile to children at Christmas…and hopefully “Santa Claus is Rockin’” will remain with them forever as a soundtrack to their Decembers.”
