When we think of Christmas, one song that immediately comes to mind is “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” This catchy tune was made famous by none other than Brenda Lee, a powerhouse vocalist who captured the hearts of fans around the world. Though her name may not be as well-known as some of her contemporaries from the 1960s, Brenda Lee’s impact on the music industry is immeasurable. Now 78 years old, she still holds the title of the most successful female artist of that era.
Brenda Lee’s journey to stardom began at a young age. Born Brenda May Tarpley in 1944, she started making waves in the late 1940s and became a sensation in the 1950s. What’s truly remarkable is that her rise to fame started before she even left elementary school. By the time she was 12, Brenda had already become a fan favorite with her powerful vocals that belied her diminutive stature of only 4 foot 9.
Life wasn’t always easy for Brenda. At the tender age of eight, she tragically lost her father, leaving her to shoulder the responsibility of providing for her family. Taking care of her younger brother, older sister, and her mother, who worked in a cotton mill, became her heartfelt mission. Even at such a young age, Brenda understood the value of money and cherished the ability to contribute to her family’s well-being. Her first $20 paycheck was a source of joy and a testament to her determination.
Hailing from Atlanta, Brenda Lee is widely recognized as a pioneer of early rock and roll. Her talent and unique voice propelled her to unprecedented international success in the 1960s. However, despite her legendary status, Brenda remains incredibly humble. She attributes her accomplishments to the countless individuals who believed in her and supported her along the way. In her own words, she sees herself as just a girl who has been blessed to pursue her dreams, with the real legends being the ones who worked tirelessly to make it all possible.
In 1956, Brenda Lee had a life-changing opportunity to perform alongside country star Red Foley. This led her to appear on Foley’s famous show, Ozark Jubilee, where her talent captivated millions of viewers. Soon after, she signed with Decca Records and moved to Nashville, Tennessee. There, she masterfully merged country and rhythm and blues, delighting audiences with her unique vocal style. Hits like “BIGELOW 6-200,” “Little Jonah,” and “Let’s Jump the Broomstick” solidified Brenda’s place in the world of early rockabilly.
Performing in front of massive crowds was never a source of nervousness for Brenda, even as a young girl. Having been on stage since the age of three, singing to people felt like home to her. With utmost comfort, she commanded the spotlight and swept audiences off their feet. Her exceptional stage presence and undeniable talent only amplified her mesmerizing performances.
At the age of 13, Brenda Lee made history with the release of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” a holiday classic that transcends genres and generations. The enchanting song immediately struck a chord with listeners and has been embraced as a cherished Christmas staple for over six decades. Brenda fondly recalls the magical feeling she experienced when she first heard the song, a testament to its timeless appeal.
While Brenda’s music often delved into deeper emotions and themes, it is interesting to note that her personal experiences as a young girl were quite different. Her strict mother prevented her from dating, and she graduated high school without experiencing the heartbreak of young love. Nonetheless, Brenda’s mature voice and heartfelt performances resonated with audiences of all ages, creating a connection that surpassed her own life experiences.
Love eventually found its way into Brenda’s life when she turned 18 and met Ronnie Shacklett. Their love story has spanned over six decades, a testament to their commitment to each other. Brenda admits that her husband played a crucial role in her personal and professional success. She considers herself incredibly fortunate to have found someone with integrity, honesty, and immense love for her. According to Brenda, this serendipitous meeting can only be attributed to a higher power looking out for her.
Now enjoying retirement from the stage, Brenda Lee’s impact on the music industry remains unparalleled. Her influence extends beyond her chart-topping hits and accolades. She is a beacon of inspiration for countless young stars, such as Taylor Swift, who recognizes her as a trailblazer in the industry. Brenda’s remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the music world, and her songs continue to bring joy to fans of all ages, especially during the holiday season.
Isn’t it incredible that Brenda Lee’s music still brings so much happiness decades later? “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” will forever hold a special place in our hearts, reminding us of the magic of the holiday season. What are your favorite memories of Brenda Lee and her music? Let’s share our love for this legendary artist and celebrate the joy she has brought into our lives.
