Is 'Start Spreading The News' A Holiday Classic?

Hey everyone! Ever wondered if that iconic tune, "Start Spreading the News," is actually a Christmas song? It's a fantastic question, and one that's sparked plenty of debate among music lovers. The song, famously associated with Frank Sinatra and his love for New York City, doesn't immediately scream "holiday cheer." But let's dive deep into this musical mystery and see if we can uncover a festive connection, or if it's just a regular old banger that we've maybe shoehorned into our Christmas playlists. Buckle up, because we're about to explore the history, lyrics, and cultural impact of this legendary song!

Decoding the Lyrics and Themes

Okay, let's get down to brass tacks: what are the lyrics really about? Written by Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen, "Start Spreading the News" is essentially a love letter to New York City. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the city that never sleeps, highlighting its energy, excitement, and endless possibilities. Phrases like "I want to be a part of it, New York, New York" and "These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray" capture the essence of a city that beckons to dreamers and adventurers. There's no mention of Santa, reindeer, or eggnog anywhere! The song's themes revolve around ambition, identity, and the allure of urban life. So, on the surface, there's absolutely nothing that directly links it to the Christmas season. However, this doesn't mean we can't make a case for a potential holiday connection, right?

Think about it, though. Christmas is often associated with the feeling of being somewhere special, like New York City, or being with family and friends. And "Start Spreading the News" captures that magical feeling of belonging. It's about finding a place where you feel alive and where your dreams can take flight. Maybe, just maybe, that sentiment resonates with the spirit of Christmas. It’s a stretch, but hear me out, guys!

Cultural Context and Associations

Frank Sinatra's connection to the song is undeniable. His powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence turned "Start Spreading the News" into an anthem. But beyond the singer, the song has become intertwined with the cultural fabric of New York. It's played at sporting events, featured in movies, and used in countless commercials. This widespread exposure has cemented its place in popular culture. But how does this translate to Christmas? Well, New York City during the holidays is a sight to behold. The glittering lights, the festive decorations, and the bustling crowds create a truly magical atmosphere. Could the song's association with the city, and the city's connection to Christmas, be enough to nudge it into the holiday realm? It's a long shot, but consider the following.

Many songs become associated with holidays not because of their explicit lyrics, but because they evoke a feeling or memory. Think of "White Christmas" – it’s literally about a white Christmas. It is a very obvious Christmas song. But even without snow, the feeling is present. "Start Spreading the News" might offer a similar effect, by its energy and the celebration of a place that is known for its incredible holiday vibe, could potentially create the feeling of holiday magic! It’s all about vibes, you know?

Comparing to Other Holiday-Adjacent Songs

Let's compare "Start Spreading the News" to some other songs that have blurred the lines of holiday association. Consider "Winter Wonderland." The lyrics mention snow and a wonderland, which immediately place it within a winter context. But there's nothing explicitly about Christmas. The song's charm lies in its depiction of winter scenes. Similarly, "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" focuses on the idea of a cozy, snowy evening, but doesn't mention Christmas. These songs have become holiday staples because they capture the general vibe of the season.

Now, let's look at the other side of the coin. Songs like "Jingle Bell Rock" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" are undeniable Christmas songs, because they are clearly focused on Christmas imagery, and holiday characters. They leave no room for doubt. So, where does “Start Spreading the News" stand? It's more akin to "Winter Wonderland" or "Let It Snow!" The song's focus on a beloved city could be considered a parallel to the themes of togetherness and celebration often associated with Christmas. It's a reach, sure, but the argument can be made!

The Verdict: Christmas Song or Not?

So, after all this detective work, what's the verdict? Is "Start Spreading the News" a Christmas song? Well, officially, no. The song’s lyrics don't explicitly mention the holiday, and its primary theme is the love of New York City. However, the song's association with the festive energy of New York, combined with its ability to evoke feelings of joy and excitement, allows it to be unofficially considered a holiday-adjacent song. It falls into the category of songs that may not be about Christmas, but can certainly be enjoyed during the Christmas season.

Ultimately, whether you include it on your holiday playlist is entirely up to you. If the song makes you feel festive and happy, then by all means, crank it up! The beauty of music is its ability to connect with us on a personal level. If “Start Spreading the News” brings you joy during the holidays, then it's a Christmas song in your book. Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals!

Here's a quick recap:

• Lyrics & Themes: Focused on New York City, not Christmas.
• Cultural Context: Associated with the city, which has a strong holiday vibe.
• Comparison: Similar to songs that capture the winter mood.
• Verdict: Not officially a Christmas song, but can be enjoyed during the holidays.

Final Thoughts

I hope you guys had fun delving into this musical mystery with me! Whether you consider "Start Spreading the News" a Christmas song or not, one thing's for sure: it's a timeless classic that continues to bring joy to millions. So, the next time you hear those iconic opening notes, remember the magic of New York, and the spirit of the season. Happy listening! And hey, if you want, let me know in the comments if you consider "Start Spreading the News" a Christmas song or not. I love to hear from you guys!

I really tried to make this article as useful and fun as possible for you guys. If you liked it, consider reading another one of my articles!