KYLIE MINOGUE - CAN’T GET YOU OUT OF MY HEAD

Publicació: 8 de setembre de 2001

Llistes: Regne Unit: #1 (4 setmanes)   EUA: #7

"Can't Get You Out of My Head" va ser escrita originalment per a S Club 7, però va ser rebutjada pel seu manager, Simon Fuller. Després es va oferir a Sophie Ellis-Bextor, qui també la va rebutjar. Finalment, va arribar a Kylie Minogue, i després de la seva gravació, es va convertir en el single principal del seu vuitè àlbum d'estudi, "Fever". La cançó, coneguda pel seu  "la la la", és un tema de dance-pop, techno-pop i nu-disco que va rebre elogis per la seva producció i la veu de Minogue. La lletra gira entorn al tema de l'obsessió amb un interès amorós.

Aquesta cançó va tenir un paper significatiu en la resurrecció de Kylie Minogue, especialment als Estats Units, on es va convertir en el seu primer èxit des de 1988. La cançó va contribuir al ressorgiment de la música disco a principis dels anys 2000, alineant-se amb la tendència liderada per artistes com Madonna, Daft Punk i Jamiroquai. Kylie Minogue va continuar abraçant el so disco, com es pot veure en el seu àlbum del 2020 titulat "Disco". Tot i que Kylie va assolir l'èxit internacional a la fi dels anys 80, la seva popularitat va disminuir als anys 90, amb una base de fans més concentrada al Regne Unit i Austràlia. L'èxit mundial de "Can't Get You Out of My Head" va marcar un retorn triomfant de Minogue a les llistes a diferents territoris.

El vídeo musical va ser dirigit per Dawn Shadforth incorporant coreografies de ball creades per Michael Rooney, creant un vídeo visualment impactant i innovador. Kylie va mostrar un aspecte sexy i glamurós que va contribuir a l'atractiu visual de la cançó. El tema futurista del vídeo va permetre a Minogue experimentar amb diversos vestits estilosos i provocadors, destacant la seva imatge juvenil i a la moda. Les imatges pulcres i seductores, combinades amb la presència segura i seductora de Minogue, van afegir sensualitat al vídeo en general. La direcció de Shadforth va jugar amb plans de primer pla i distorsions visuals, desafiant les percepcions tradicionals de Minogue i reforçant el seu estatus com a artista creativa i experimental. Aquest aspecte sexy i glamurós es va convertir en sinònim de la personalitat de Kylie Minogue, consolidant-la com a icona pop coneguda tant pel seu talent musical com pel seu estil visual distintiu.

La actuació de Kylie Minogue als Brit Awards del 2002 va incloure una remescla de "Can't Get You Out of My Head" amb el ritme de "Blue Monday" de New Order. Aquesta versió es va llançar més tard com a cara B del seu èxit del 2002, "Love At First Sight".

KYLIE MINOGUE - CAN’T GET YOU OUT OF MY HEAD

Released : September 8, 2001

Charted:  UK: #1 (4 weeks)  US: #7 

"Can't Get You Out of My Head" was originally written for S Club 7 but was rejected by their manager, Simon Fuller. It was then offered to Sophie Ellis-Bextor, who also turned it down. Eventually, it found its way to Kylie Minogue, and after her recording, it became the lead single of her eighth studio album, “Fever”. The song, known for its catchy "la la la" hook, is a dance-pop, techno-pop, and nu-disco track that received praise for its production and Minogue's vocals. The lyrics revolve around the theme of obsession with a love interest.

This song played a significant role in Kylie Minogue's resurgence, especially in the United States, where it became her first hit since 1988. The song contributed to the disco revival of the early 2000s, aligning with the trend led by artists like Madonna, Daft Punk, and Jamiroquai. Kylie Minogue continued to embrace the disco sound, evidenced by her 2020 album titled "Disco". While she achieved international success in the late '80s, her popularity waned in the '90s, with a more concentrated fanbase in the UK and Australia. The global success of "Can't Get You Out of My Head" marked a triumphant return for Minogue to the charts in various territories.

The music video was directed by Dawn Shadforth incorporating dance routines choreographed by Michael Rooney, creating a visually striking and innovative video. Kylie showcased a sexy and glamorous look that contributed to the visual appeal of the song. The video's futuristic theme allowed Minogue to experiment with various stylish and provocative outfits, emphasizing her youthful and fashionable image. The sleek and seductive visuals, combined with Minogue's confident and alluring presence, added to the overall sensuality of the video. Shadforth's direction played with close-up shots and visual distortions, challenging traditional perceptions of Minogue and reinforcing her status as a creative and experimental artist. This sexy and glamorous look became synonymous with Kylie Minogue's persona, further establishing her as a pop icon known for both her musical talent and distinctive visual style.

Kylie Minogue's performance at the 2002 Brit Awards featured a remix of "Can't Get You Out of My Head" set to the beat of "Blue Monday" by New Order. This unique rendition was later released as the B-side of her 2002 hit single "Love At First Sight".

 

LOVE UNLIMITED - IT MAY BE WINTER OUTSIDE (BUT IN MY HEART IT’S SPRING)

Released: July 1973

Charted:  UK: #11  US: #83 

"It May Be Winter Outside (But in My Heart It's Spring)" is a song co-written by Barry White and Paul Politi. Originally recorded by American singer Felice Taylor in 1967, the song achieved a minor hit status, reaching No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 44 on the R&B chart in early 1967. 

The song was later recorded in 1973 by Love Unlimited, a girl group formed under the guidance of Barry White. This rendition was featured on Love Unlimited's album "Under the Influence of... Love Unlimited." In the United States, it reached No. 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 35 on the Billboard R&B chart. Notably, the song achieved greater success in the United Kingdom, reaching No. 11 on the UK Singles Chart. Love Unlimited version carries elements of the classic Motown sound from the 1960s. The influence of Motown's distinctive style, characterized by soulful melodies, harmonies, and arrangements, is evident in the song's composition and performance. Love Unlimited's rendition captures the essence of the era's soul and R&B music, paying homage to the iconic sounds of groups like the Supremes and the Vandellas. Barry White's involvement in the songwriting and production likely contributed to its nostalgic Motown flavor, creating a timeless piece.

This track is a soulful exploration of finding love's warmth and joy amid the cold and challenging aspects of life. The lyrics depict the singer's yearning for their partner's presence, which serves as a source of comfort and happiness during the winter season. The contrast between the external coldness and the internal warmth of love is beautifully portrayed, emphasizing the transformative power of a deep and passionate connection. This song ultimately celebrates the ability of love to bring renewal, pleasure, and a sense of springtime even in the midst of winter's harshness.

"It May Be Winter Outside (But in My Heart It’s Spring)" may not explicitly mention Christmas, but its themes of warmth, love, and finding joy in the midst of cold and challenging circumstances align with the sentiments often associated with the holiday season. The song's inclusion in Christmas compilations could be attributed to its overall message of love and renewal, which resonates well with the spirit of celebration and togetherness during the winter holidays.

 

SAM RYDER - YOU’RE CHRISTMAS TO ME

Released : November 7, 2023

Charted:  UK: #2 

"You're Christmas to Me" by Sam Ryder is a festive and joyful Christmas single that was exclusively released on Amazon Music on November 7, 2023. The song radiates positivity, celebrating the happiness of being with a loved one during the holiday season. Sam Ryder expresses sentiments of love, portraying his romantic partner as the shining star on the tree, the most meaningful gift, and the source of his belief in miracles.

The collaborative effort behind "You're Christmas To Me" reflects the creative work of Sam Ryder, Max Wolfgang, and Tom Howe. Max Wolfgang, known for his work as a British singer-songwriter and producer, shares a writing credit with Ryder, and the two previously collaborated on Ryder's Eurovision hit "Space Man." Wolfgang has also contributed to projects with artists like BlackPink and Celine Dion. Tom Howe, a British composer and music producer with a diverse portfolio including film scores for productions like "A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon," "Ted Lasso," and "The Great British Bake," joins the creative team for this Christmas single.

Sam Ryder's recounting of the creative process behind "You're Christmas To Me" provides insights into the last-minute inspiration and collaborative effort. The song's development, initiated in August 2023 after being approached by Amazon Music, led to a collaborative writing session with Max Wolfgang. Ryder's description of the track's musical influences, drawing from late '80s and early '90s vibes, saxophones, New York City swing drums, and inspiration from artists like Bruce Springsteen, the E Street Band, and elements of The Darkness, offers a glimpse into the eclectic mix shaping the festive single. Ryder's admission of procrastination, almost missing the deadline, adds a touch of spontaneity to the song's creation, emphasizing the urgency and creativity that emerged under tight time constraints.

 

SIA - SNOWMAN

Released: November 9, 2017

Charted:  UK: #27 

"Snowman" is a Christmas-themed song by Australian singer-songwriter Sia. It was released as the second single from her eighth studio album, "Everyday Is Christmas", which came out in 2017. The album features original holiday songs written by Sia and producer Greg Kurstin.

The lyrics of "Snowman" use metaphorical language, likening a relationship to building a snowman. The song conveys a sense of impermanence and the idea that, like a snowman, relationships might not last forever. Despite the chilly and transient nature of the metaphor, the song maintains a whimsical and festive feel, fitting the holiday theme of the album.

The music video for Sia's "Snowman" was released on 30 October 2020, featuring claymation. It provides a whimsical visual representation of the song's themes, using animated characters to convey the narrative. The claymation style adds a charming and nostalgic touch to the video, enhancing the winter and holiday atmosphere.

Additionally, a part two of the music video was released on 22 December 2022, extending the storytelling and creative elements associated with the song. This continued engagement with the music video contributes to the overall appeal and longevity of the song's presence in the digital space.

The Snowman Challenge on TikTok gained popularity as users attempted to sing an entire verse of Sia's song "Snowman" in one breath. The challenge likely gained traction due to the whimsical and catchy nature of the song, along with the festive theme that aligns with the holiday season.

 

KURTIS BLOW - CHRISTMAS RAPPIN’ 

Publicació: 7 de desembre de 1979

Llistes: Regne Unit: #30

"Christmas Rappin'" destaca per ser la primera cançó de rap llançada per una discogràfica important. Produida per Robert Ford i J.B. Moore, la cançó va obrir pas al reconeixement del rap com a gènere viable. Kurtis Blow va aconseguir un acord per a dues cançons amb Mercury Records, amb la condició que l'èxit portaria a un acord per a un àlbum. "Christmas Rappin'" va obtenir vendes considerables, al voltant de 400.000 còpies, establint un mercat pel rap. El següent senzill, "The Breaks", va fer història com la primera cançó de rap certificada com a disc d’Or, amb més de 500.000 còpies venudes. Aquest èxit va fer guanyar a Kurtis Blow l’acord i va gravar l’àlbum, convertint-lo en el primer raper signat per una discogràfica gran.

"Christmas Rappin'" segueix l'estil de moltes de les primeres cançons de rap, ja que no presenta una tornada, i aquesta característica s'estén fins al seu títol que en cap moment s’anomena. En un joc intel·ligent amb la frase "Christmas Wrapping", el títol "Christmas Rappin'" incorpora el terme "rap". Aquesta convenció de nomenclatura coincideix amb altres cançons de rap inicials, com "Rapper's Delight". Curiosament, dos anys més tard, The Waitresses van llançar una cançó titulada "Christmas Wrapping" com una referència trapella al tema de Kurtis Blow.

Aquesta cançó destaca en el gènere del rap per no incorporar samples. En lloc d'això, els productors J.B. Moore i Robert Ford van crear el tema utilitzant músics en directe. L'estil musical de la cançó està fortament influït pel disco, amb similituds amb la feina del grup Chic. Aquest enfocament destaca l'ús innovador de la instrumentació en viu als primers dies de la música rap, cosa que va canviar posteriorment amb l’incorporació dels samplers enlloc dels músics. 

"Christmas Rappin'" té la distinció de ser la primera cançó de rap amb èxit que té com a temàtica el Nadal. La cançó explica com Santa Claus fa una aparició a una festa a casolana i s'implica en la festivitat. Kurtis Blow va senyalar que J.B. Moore va escriure la primera meitat de la cançó amb la temàtica nadalenca, mentre que ell va escriure la segona meitat centrada en la festa, durant un viatge en tren cap a l'estudi al voltant de Nadal. Aquest esforç col·laboratiu va donar com a resultat una cançó festiva i pionera en l'àmbit del rap amb temàtica nadalenca.

KURTIS BLOW - CHRISTMAS RAPPIN’ 

Released : December 7, 1979

Charted:  UK: #30 

"Christmas Rappin'" holds historical significance as the first rap song issued by a major label. Produced by Robert Ford and J.B. Moore, the track paved the way for the recognition of rap as a viable genre. Kurtis Blow secured a two-single deal with Mercury Records, with the condition that success would lead to an album deal. "Christmas Rappin'" achieved considerable sales, around 400,000 copies, establishing a market for rap. The subsequent single, "The Breaks," made history as the first rap song certified Gold, selling over 500,000 copies. This success earned Kurtis Blow an album deal, making him the first rapper signed to a major label.

"Christmas Rappin'" follows the style of many early rap songs by not featuring a chorus, and this characteristic extends to its title. In a clever play on the phrase "Christmas Wrapping," the title "Christmas Rappin'" incorporates the term "rap." This naming convention aligns with other early rap songs, such as "Rapper's Delight." Interestingly, two years later, The Waitresses released a song titled "Christmas Wrapping" as a playful reference to Kurtis Blow's track.

This song stands out in the rap genre for not incorporating any samples. Instead, producers J.B. Moore and Robert Ford crafted the track using live musicians. The musical style of the song is heavily influenced by disco, bearing similarities to the work of the group Chic. This approach highlights the innovative use of live instrumentation in the early days of rap music.

"Christmas Rappin'" holds the distinction of being the first successful Christmas rap song. The song narrates the tale of Santa Claus making an appearance at a house party and getting involved in the festivities. Kurtis Blow shared that J.B. Moore wrote the Christmas-themed first half of the song, while he penned the party-centric second half during a train ride to the studio around Christmas time. This collaborative effort resulted in a festive and pioneering track in the realm of Christmas-themed rap.

 

ED SHEERAN & ELTON JOHN - MERRY CHRISTMAS

Released: December 3, 2021

Charted:  UK: #1 (3 weeks)  US: #42 

"Merry Christmas" is a collaborative holiday song by Ed Sheeran and Elton John. Released as a single through Asylum and Atlantic Records, the song quickly made its mark, entering at the top of the UK Singles Chart during the week of December 10, 2021. This achievement marked Ed Sheeran's twelfth chart-topper in the UK and Elton John's ninth number-one single in the country. The festive track originally appeared on the Christmas edition of Sheeran's album "=", and it also features on the Christmas edition of Elton John's collaborative album, "The Lockdown Sessions".

Ed Sheeran and Elton John teamed up for "Merry Christmas" after a Christmas Day call where Elton John expressed admiration for the enduring success of "Step Into Christmas." John proposed the idea of a Christmas duet, and though Sheeran was initially reserved, John's enthusiasm won him over. Sheeran insisted that the song should be a proper Christmas tune with sleigh bells and a festive vibe. The collaboration resulted in the creation of "Merry Christmas," along with two other festive songs, during a stay at Elton John's place.

The official music video for "Merry Christmas" pays homage to iconic British Christmas hits and scenes from the festive romantic-comedy film Love Actually. Ed Sheeran and Elton John re-create moments from Christmas classics like "Last Christmas," "Walking in the Air," "I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday," "Merry Christmas Everyone," and "Stay Another Day." The video adds a nostalgic and festive touch, celebrating the spirit of Christmas through these beloved songs and memorable scenes.