The Christmas Song
The Ramsey Lewis Trio Lyrics


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Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
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
Will find it hard to sleep tonight.

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!

Overall Meaning

The Ramsey Lewis Trio's The Christmas Song is a timeless classic that captures the essence of the holiday season. The lyrics transport the audience into a warm, cozy atmosphere where chestnuts are being roasted, and Jack Frost is nipping at their noses. The Christmas carols sung by the choir and people dressed like Eskimos complete the idyllic image of wintertime jolliness. The song then emphasizes that turkey and mistletoe go a long way in making the holiday season bright. The joy on the faces of young children, whose eyes are "all aglow," adds to the charm of the festive moments. However, they might find it hard to sleep as they anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus with his sleigh brimming with toys and good cheer. The idea of children spying to see if reindeer genuinely know how to fly adds to the childlike innocence of the season. The song concludes with a straightforward, yet heartwarming, seasonal message of wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, regardless of their age or social status.


Line by Line Meaning

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
There are chestnuts being roasted on an open fire, which creates this cozy and comfortable atmosphere for the listeners.


Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Jack Frost, the personification of winter, is playfully biting the listener's nose, indicating that it's cold outside.


Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
The choir is singing classic Christmas carols that have been handed down from generations to generations, bringing back memories of Christmases past.


And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
People are wearing many layers of clothing to keep warm, making them appear like Eskimos who are known to dress warmly.


Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
It's common knowledge that turkey and mistletoe are essential parts of the holiday season that make it cheerful and festive.


Help to make the season bright
The presence of these things makes the holiday season happier and more joyful.


Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Children are excited and full of wonder during Christmas times, as they eagerly anticipate their presents from Santa.


Will find it hard to sleep tonight.
Adults know that it will be hard for children to fall asleep on Christmas Eve because of the excitement and anticipation of the holiday.


They know that Santa's on his way
Children are aware that Santa is coming to deliver their presents tonight.


He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
Santa has brought lots of toys and treats for children and has loaded them onto his sleigh.


And every mother's child is gonna spy
All children, regardless of their backgrounds, are going to try and catch Santa in the act of putting presents under their Christmas tree.


To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
Children are curious about whether or not Santa's reindeers can actually fly through the sky.


And so I'm offering this simple phrase
The singer is providing a straightforward message to conclude the song.


To kids from one to ninety-two
The message is meant for everyone, young and old alike.


Although it's been said many times, many ways
The message is a common one that has been uttered countless times in a variety of ways.


Merry Christmas to you!
The artist wishes everyone a happy and joyous Christmas!




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA/AMCOS

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Comments from YouTube:

joan williamson

This song always ushers in Christmas in my house. It will be a bit more soulful knowing that Ramsey Lewis passed away.

João Alberto Dos Anjos Gomes

🌎👍❤

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