Music Video
Santa Claus is Coming to Town — Bruce Springsteen Lyrics
Soundtrack: Carry-On
Santa Claus is Coming to Town Song Lyrics
It's all cold down on the beach
The wind's whipping down the boardwalk
Hey Band! You guys know what time of year it is?
What time, what? What?
Christmastime!
What? Oh, Christmastime!
You guys, all, you guys all been good and practicing real hard?
Yeah?
Clarence, you been, you been rehearsing real hard now? So Santa'll bring you a new saxophone?
Everyone out there been good or what?
Aw, that's not many, not many you guys are in trouble out here
[Chorus, sung]
You'd better watch out, you'd better not cry
You'd better not pout, I'm telling you why -
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
He's making a list, he's checking it twice
He's gonna find out whose naughty or nice
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
[Verse]
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
You'd better be good for goodness sake!
You'd better be good for goodness sake!
[Chorus]
Oh you'd better watch out, you'd better not cry
You'd better not pout, I'm telling you why -
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
Ho, ho, ho, ho!
[Saxophone solo]
[Verse]
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
You'd better be good for goodness sake!
You'd better be good for goodness sake!
[Chorus]
You'd better watch out, you'd better not cry
You'd better not pout, I'm telling you why -
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
Santa Claus is coming to town
[Outro]
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Oh!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Yeah!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Yeah!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Woah!
Santa Claus is coming to town!
Track Listing
December, 16th 2024
Song Details and Overview
Carry-On opens with this song, with it playing over images of clouds as an airplane lands, revealing the airport setting that makes up the bulk of the film.
- Featuring Artist(s): Clarence Clemons (saxophone)
- Producer(s): Mike Appel, Jimmy Iovine, Bruce Springsteen
- Composer: J. Fred Coots
- Writer: Haven Gillespie
- Release Date: 1981
- Musical Instruments: Saxophone, piano, guitar, drums
- Label: Columbia Records
- Musical Genre: Rock, Holiday
- Album: Japanese Singles Collection: Greatest Hits
- Track #: 7
- Language: English
- Mood: Festive, nostalgic, joyful
Exploring the meaning of "Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town"
Bruce Springsteen's rendition of "Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town" adds a rock-and-roll twist to the classic holiday tune originally written by J. Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie in 1934. This version, recorded live at C.W. Post College in 1975, has become a holiday staple due to its high-energy performance and playful vibe.
The song begins with a spoken introduction, creating a casual and humorous connection with the audience. Springsteen playfully asks if everyone has been practicing to impress Santa, setting a fun tone. The instrumentation features a prominent saxophone solo by Clarence Clemons, which brings a soulful, jazzy element to the arrangement. The band’s dynamic sound includes driving percussion, energetic guitars, and vibrant piano that sustain the festive mood throughout.
The Chorus: A Warning and Celebration
The repeated refrain, "You’d better watch out, you’d better not cry," serves as a playful reminder of Santa's omnipresence. The lively tempo enhances the feeling of anticipation and joy as Springsteen emphasizes the magical elements of Christmas.
The Verses: A Nod to Nostalgia
The verses reinforce the whimsical yet slightly cautionary message of the song. Phrases like "He sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’re awake" introduce a childlike sense of wonder, capturing the innocence and excitement associated with Santa Claus.
The Saxophone Solo
Clarence Clemons' saxophone solo becomes a standout moment in the performance. It bridges the verses with its expressive sound, adding warmth and depth to the track while evoking a jazzy Christmas ambiance.
Songs similar to Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town
- “Run Rudolph Run” by Chuck Berry: This upbeat rock-and-roll Christmas anthem shares a similar festive energy and celebratory mood. Both songs rely on lively instrumentation and charismatic delivery to evoke holiday cheer, with "Run Rudolph Run" highlighting Berry's iconic guitar work.
- “Merry Christmas Baby” by Bruce Springsteen: Another holiday classic performed by Springsteen, this track is bluesy and soulful. It shares the same sense of fun and intimacy, featuring Clemons’ saxophone and Springsteen’s emotive vocal style.
- “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee: This song shares a rockabilly style and nostalgic theme with Springsteen’s version. Both tracks evoke the warm joy of Christmas while energizing listeners with their lively rhythms.
- “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” by John Lennon and Yoko Ono: Although this song is more reflective, its message of joy and peace aligns with the festive spirit of "Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town." Both tracks have become essential parts of holiday playlists worldwide.
- “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey: This modern classic captures the joy and anticipation of Christmas, much like Springsteen’s rendition. Both songs feature strong vocal performances and memorable melodies.
- “Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley: Though melancholic, this song complements Springsteen’s energetic track by offering a contrasting emotional depth while still being rooted in rock and roll.
- “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms: Sharing a similar upbeat tempo, this song captures the same festive essence. The playful lyrics and danceable rhythm make it a favorite alongside Springsteen's holiday classic.
- “Please Come Home for Christmas” by Eagles: This ballad is more solemn but resonates with the themes of love and togetherness found in Springsteen's version. The Eagles' rich harmonies echo the warmth of holiday nostalgia.
Chart Performance and Awards
This live rendition has become one of the most popular rock adaptations of a Christmas classic, enjoying significant airplay every holiday season.
Bruce Springsteen has described this version as one of the band’s most fun performances, often played during their holiday concerts.
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