Byrd primarily looked up to Django Reinhardt. He moved to Washington, D.C., to study classical guitar with the renowned Sophocles Papas. He later moved to Italy where he studied with Andrés Segovia. In the early 1960's he was on a State Department tour in South America where he was introduced to a new music, the bossa nova, which was the musical passion of Brazil beginning in the late 50's. Jazz saxophonist Stan Getz had been in Brazil about six months earlier than Byrd, also on a State Department tour, where he, too, was exposed to the bossa nova. A short time later Getz called Byrd in D.C. and suggested the idea that they collaborate on a bossa nova album. That album was the introduction of bossa nova to North America.
He is perhaps most well known as a collaborator with Stan Getz on the Jazz Samba album, which featured many themes of bossa nova, and of course, samba.
The Christmas Song
Charlie Byrd Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
Help to make the season bright
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
They know that Santa's on his way
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
And every mother's child is gonna spy
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
And so I'm offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two
Although it's been said many times, many ways
Merry Christmas to you!
The Christmas Song is one of the most beloved and iconic holiday songs of all time, written by Mel Torme and Robert Wells, and first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1946. Charlie Byrd's rendition of the song captures the essence of the holiday season, with its warm and inviting melody, and his soulful guitar playing. The lyrics of the song speak to the joy and excitement that surrounds Christmas time, with familiar images of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at our noses, and carolers singing in the streets. The festive mood is further enhanced by the sight of people donning warm winter clothes, including Eskimo fur coats, as they go about their day.
The second verse of the song highlights some other popular holiday traditions, such as eating turkey and hanging mistletoe, that help to make the season bright. Children are also a significant part of the holiday season, with their wide-eyed wonder and excitement at the prospect of Santa's arrival. They eagerly await his arrival, as he is loaded with lots of toys and goodies for everyone. They even stay up late, unable to contain their excitement, waiting to see if the reindeer really know how to fly. The song culminates with the singer offering a simple yet heartfelt greeting to all those celebrating the holiday, young and old alike.
Line by Line Meaning
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
The smell of roasting chestnuts provides warmth and comfort during the holiday season.
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
The cold winter air makes your nose tingle and reminds you of the wintery season.
Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
The joyful singing of carols by a group of people brings harmony and cheer to the holiday season.
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
People wear warm clothing to protect themselves against the cold, just like the Eskimos do in their native environment.
Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
Turkey and mistletoe are common symbols of the Christmas season that bring happiness and good cheer to people.
Help to make the season bright
These symbols help to spread joy and happiness, making the holiday season bright and cheerful.
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Young children are full of excitement and anticipation during the holiday season, eager to receive gifts from Santa Claus.
Will find it hard to sleep tonight.
Their excitement makes it difficult for them to fall asleep, as they eagerly await the arrival of Santa Claus and the gifts he brings.
They know that Santa's on his way
Children have faith that Santa Claus will come to bring them gifts, spreading joy and happiness throughout the season.
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
Children believe that Santa Claus has lots of presents and treats for them, making them even more excited for his arrival.
And every mother's child is gonna spy
Children are eager to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus and his flying reindeer, and they keep watch to try and spot him.
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
Children believe that Santa Claus's reindeer can fly, and they are eager to see them in action.
And so I'm offering this simple phrase
The singer is offering a simple message of goodwill to everyone, wishing them happiness and joy during the season.
To kids from one to ninety-two
The message of goodwill is meant for everyone, regardless of their age or background.
Although it's been said many times, many ways
The message of goodwill has been repeated many times in many different ways, but it still holds true and is just as important as ever.
Merry Christmas to you!
The artist wishes everyone a merry and joyous Christmas, spreading goodwill and cheer throughout the holiday season.
Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS
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