Yesterday (December 10), “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” surpassed 1 billion streams on Spotify, making it the first holiday song by a female country artist to reach this impressive milestone. It also recently earned its seventh Platinum certification from the RIAA, placing it second only to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” as the highest-certified holiday track.
“I was dumbfounded,” Brenda Lee said of her hit reaching 1 billion streams. “I can’t even think that high, much less say it.” The singer has spent most of her life in the spotlight, having landed her first hit at just 12 years old. “I always somehow knew that’s what I was going to do because I loved it so much,” she explained. “I would have sung no matter what. But I never dreamed that my legacy would be a Christmas song.”
The timing of this achievement couldn’t be more fitting—today is Lee’s 80th birthday, giving her two reasons to celebrate. “I think the label is having a birthday party for me,” she shared. “They say there’ll be some surprises. I can’t wait.”
Originally released in 1958, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” holds the record for the longest run to No. 1 on the Hot 100, finally topping the charts in 2023—an incredible 65 years later.
Brenda recalled the moment she heard “Rockin’” (that’s how she refers to the song) was featured in the hit 1990 Christmas movie. “I was sitting at home and the phone rang and it was one of my friends and she said, ‘Brenda, have you seen the movie Home Alone? I said no. She said, ‘Well, your song is all over it.’ I said which song? She said, ‘Rockin,’’ and that was really the catalyst that pushed it to where it went [on the charts].”
Beyond its staggering streaming milestone, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” has become a cherished holiday staple, played in homes, stores, and radio stations worldwide each December. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its upbeat melody, swinging rhythm, and Brenda Lee’s unmistakable, youthful voice—elements that continue to resonate with listeners of all ages. Lee recorded the track at the age of 13, and its enduring popularity speaks to the universal joy and nostalgia Christmas music can evoke.
With its recent surge in popularity, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” has firmly secured its place in the pantheon of holiday classics. Its journey to the top of the charts, culminating 65 years after its initial release, underscores the idea that great music can transcend time, trends, and generations. As Brenda Lee herself reflects on this remarkable achievement, it’s clear her legacy will continue to shine—inviting new fans every year to join the festive fun, dance beneath the twinkling lights, and keep the holiday spirit alive.