Brenda Lee’s holiday classic, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” has claimed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking its first ascent since its 1958 release. Surpassing chart-topping rival Mariah Carey and her perennial favorite, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Lee’s festive anthem was streamed nearly 35 million times between the Friday after Thanksgiving and Thursday.
Lee expressed joy and gratitude, emphasizing the song’s enduring appeal across generations. The achievement coincides with the recent release of a music video for the track, which Lee, reflecting on her childhood, deemed “special.” Celebrating the 65th anniversary of the song, Lee’s team at UMG/UMe played a pivotal role in this success through a dedicated promotional push, including a holiday EP and engaging TikTok content. The singer, who was only 13 when she recorded the Johnny Marks-penned hit, now holds the record as the oldest woman to top the Hot 100, surpassing previous record-holders Cher and Mariah Carey.
As “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” continues to resonate, Brenda Lee expresses her gratitude to fans, labeling this achievement one of the best gifts she has ever received. The timeless holiday classic has become a festive favorite, making this holiday season especially significant for Brenda Lee and music enthusiasts alike.