About the song
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is a classic Christmas standard, and countless artists have lent their voices to this timeless melody. Among them is Travis Tritt, a prominent figure in the country music scene, who offers a rendition that blends traditional sentiment with his own distinctive style. While not an original composition by Tritt, his interpretation deserves attention for its vocal delivery, instrumental arrangement, and the overall feeling it evokes.
Travis Tritt, a Georgia native, rose to prominence in the 1990s as part of the “new traditionalist” movement in country music. He’s known for his powerful vocals, his blend of country, Southern rock, and blues influences, and his down-to-earth persona. Tritt has a string of hit singles and albums to his name, solidifying his place as a respected and enduring artist in the country music landscape. While he’s primarily known for his country hits, his venture into Christmas music, including “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” showcases his versatility and ability to connect with audiences across different musical styles.
The song “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” itself has a rich history. It was originally written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane for the 1944 musical Meet Me in St. Louis, where it was performed by Judy Garland. The song’s initial version was quite somber, reflecting the wartime anxieties of the time. However, it was later revised to be more hopeful and uplifting, which is the version we are most familiar with today. This history gives the song a certain depth and resonance, reminding us of its power to offer comfort and solace during challenging times.
Travis Tritt’s version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” likely appearing on his 1992 Christmas album A Travis Tritt Christmas – Loving Time of the Year, adds a touch of country flair to the classic tune. While maintaining the core melody and sentiment of the original, Tritt’s rendition likely incorporates elements of country instrumentation, perhaps featuring steel guitar, acoustic guitars, and a more pronounced rhythm section than some traditional versions. His vocal delivery, with its characteristic Southern drawl and powerful resonance, gives the song a unique character. It’s not a radical departure from the standard versions, but it’s clearly stamped with Tritt’s own musical identity.
For listeners familiar with both the original song and Travis Tritt’s work, this rendition offers a comfortable yet fresh take on a beloved classic. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of the song’s message of hope and resilience, delivered with the warmth and sincerity that Tritt is known for. It’s a track that would fit perfectly into a holiday gathering, offering a blend of nostalgia and contemporary country sound. It’s a testament to Tritt’s ability to interpret and personalize existing material while staying true to its essence. This version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is a valuable addition to any Christmas playlist, especially for fans of country music and those who appreciate a heartfelt and well-executed rendition of a timeless holiday standard.
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Lyrics
Have yourself a merry little ChristmasLet your heart be lightFrom now on, our troubles will be out of sightHave yourself a merry little ChristmasMake the Yuletide gayFrom now on, our troubles will be miles awayHere we are as in olden daysHappy golden days of yoreFaithful friends who are dear to usGather near to us once moreThrough the years we all will be togetherIf the fates allowSo hang a shining star upon the highest boughAnd have yourself a merry little Christmas nowHave yourself a merry little ChristmasLet your heart be lightFrom now on, our troubles will be out of sightHave yourself a merry little ChristmasMake the Yuletide gayFrom now on, our troubles will be miles awayHere we are as in olden daysHappy golden days of yoreFaithful friends who are dear to usGather near to us once moreThrough the years we all will be togetherIf the fates allowSo hang a shining star upon the highest boughAnd have yourself a merry little Christmas now