ABOUT SONG
The Chipmunks’ “Christmas Don’t Be Late” is a beloved holiday classic that has charmed audiences since its release in 1958. Featuring the iconic animated trio – Alvin, Simon, and Theodore – the song encapsulates the innocence and joy of Christmas with a unique and whimsical flair.
From the opening notes of the song, a sense of festive cheer is immediately evoked. The lively arrangement, complete with jingling bells and a catchy melody, sets the perfect backdrop for the Chipmunks’ endearing voices. Ross Bagdasarian Sr., the creator of the Chipmunks, provided the distinctive vocals for the characters, altering the speed of his voice to create the high-pitched, chipmunk-like sound.
Lyrically, the song captures the impatience and excitement of the Chipmunks as they eagerly await the arrival of Christmas. Alvin’s plea for a hula hoop and Theodore’s wish for a plane create a humorous and relatable narrative that resonates with both children and adults alike. The simplicity of the lyrics adds to the charm, making it a timeless holiday favorite.
The Chipmunks’ vocal delivery, characterized by their unique high-pitched tones, contributes to the song’s enduring appeal. The playful banter and infectious enthusiasm in their voices infuse the song with a childlike exuberance that perfectly captures the spirit of the season.
Released as part of the album “Let’s All Sing with The Chipmunks,” the song quickly became a sensation, earning three Grammy Awards nominations and securing its place as a holiday staple. The Chipmunks’ popularity soared, and their Christmas special further cemented their status as cherished holiday icons.
Decades later, “Christmas Don’t Be Late” continues to enchant generations during the festive season. Its inclusion in various Christmas compilations, movies, and commercials showcases its lasting impact on popular culture, making it a timeless soundtrack for holiday celebrations.
As the playful chitter-chatter of the Chipmunks begins, listeners are transported to a whimsical winter wonderland where the joy of Christmas is embodied by the mischievous trio. “Christmas Don’t Be Late” remains a heartwarming reminder that, no matter how old you are, the magic of Christmas is best experienced with childlike anticipation and the cheerful sounds of the Chipmunks’ classic holiday tune.
VIDEO
LYRICS
… Alright you ChipmunksReady to sing your song?I’ll say we areYeah, let’s sing it now!Okay, Simon?OkayOkay, Theodore?OkayOkay, Alvin? Alvin? Alvin!Okay!… Christmas, Christmas time is nearTime for toys and time for cheerWe’ve been good, but we can’t lastHurry Christmas, hurry fastWant a plane that loops the loopMe, I want a hula hoopWe can hardly stand the waitPlease Christmas, don’t be late… Okay, fellas get readyThat was very good, SimonNaturally!Very good, TheodoreHe-he-he-heAh-Alvin, you were a little flatWatch it, ah-Alvin… Alvin? Alvin!Okay… Want a plane that loops the loopI still want a hula hoopWe can hardly stand the waitPlease Christmas, don’t be lateWe can hardly stand the waitPlease Christmas, don’t be late… Very good, boysLet’s sing it aganYeah, let’s sing it againNo, that’s enough, let’s not overdo itWhat do you mean overdo it? We gotta sing it again!Now wait a minute, boysYeah, let’s beat it, I’d like to sing it again… Alvin… it’s not that… not but, what?Theodore, just a minute…Simon will you cut that out, get off me