He emerged in the 1970s and at the time he was considered to be one of the few musicians of real talent who carried the tradition of the classic jazz tenor saxophone in the style of Ben Webster, Coleman Hawkins as well as Zoot Sims and Don Byas forward. He began playing in various rhythm & blues outfits in Providence (Rhode Island), but subsequently shifted to jazz and the tenor saxophone. In 1976 he moved to New York City at, in part the recommendation of Roy Eldridge. He there joined Benny Goodman for a period of time. During this time, he also developed an alcohol problem.,[1] In the early 1980's he had formed his own quintet and toured all over the world. By then free from his drinking habit, in 1982 he had matured sufficiently to be able to break away from the spell of mainly Ben Webster and Zoot Sims, of whom he had been criticized of imitating. From this point on both his playing and his tone was very much his own.
Living in New York City, he toured all around the world during the 1980's, playing Japan and all over Europe. He was in particular a recurrent visitor to the UK, Sweden and the Grand Parade du Jazz, held in Nice, France. By the early 1990's he was ready for a next step and by 1994 when he released Organic Duke, he had developed a quite singular style: a large, well rounded but still focused tone and improvising, ostensibly still based on the swing idiom (especially Ellington), but incorporating more modern elements. During this period, he relocated to London, and formed his current quartet, featuring John Pearce (p), Dave Green (b) and Steve Brown (dr). He is currently active touring all over Europe.
He has had over forty albums as a lead most on the Concord Records label.
Christmas Song
Scott Hamilton 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!
Scott Hamilton's song "Christmas Song" captures the essence of the festive season. The first verse paints a picture of a fairytale Christmas with "chestnuts roasting on an open fire" and "Jack Frost nipping at your nose." A choir singing yuletide carols in harmony and people donning warm Eskimo attire reinforces the merry atmosphere.
The second verse highlights what makes Christmas a special holiday. Turkeys and mistletoe are symbols of abundance and cheer during the season, and children's excitement makes it hard for them to sleep. The anticipation of Santa's arrival creates a sense of magic and wonder, as each child wants to see if reindeer really know how to fly.
The final verse is a message of goodwill to everyone, as the singer offers a straightforward but powerful phrase to everyone from young kids to older adults, wishing them a Merry Christmas. The song's universal message is about sharing and spreading the warmth and joy that comes with the season. Overall, Scott Hamilton's "Christmas Song" is a heartwarming reminder of what the holiday is all about.
Line by Line Meaning
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Imagine sitting in front of a warm, cozy fire with chestnuts roasting, filling the room with a delicious and comforting aroma.
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Although it's chilly outside, it's also a magical time where even the cold air can bring a smile to your face.
Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
The sweet sound of carolers fills the air and warms your heart, spreading good cheer throughout the season.
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
Everyone is bundled up in cozy winter clothes, hats, and scarves, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
Two iconic symbols of Christmas - a delicious holiday meal and the tradition of exchanging kisses under mistletoe - are enjoyed by everyone.
Help to make the season bright
These traditions help to brighten the season and create special memories.
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Children's excitement is contagious, their eyes shining with the anticipation of Christmas morning and all the presents it brings.
Will find it hard to sleep tonight.
The excitement and anticipation leading up to Christmas Day can make it difficult for young children (and even adults!) to fall asleep on Christmas Eve.
They know that Santa's on his way
Children eagerly await Santa's arrival, knowing that he'll bring presents and goodies.
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
Santa has been busy preparing for Christmas, loading his sleigh full of toys and treats to give to children around the world.
And every mother's child is gonna spy
All children, regardless of age or background, are captivated by the magic and wonder of Santa Claus and his sleigh.
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
They can't wait to see the magical reindeer taking flight, wondering how it's even possible for animals to fly.
And so I'm offering this simple phrase
In the spirit of the season, I want to share with you this heartfelt message.
To kids from one to ninety-two
This message is for everyone, regardless of age or background.
Although it's been said many times, many ways
This message has been shared countless times before, but it remains just as important and meaningful each time it's said.
Merry Christmas to you!
I wish you a joyful and happy Christmas, filled with love, warmth, and good cheer.
Lyrics © Ceylon Records, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Mel Torme, Robert Wells
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind