About The Song
While Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime” is a beloved holiday classic in its own right (1979), The Monkees brought their own unique charm and musical sensibility to the song on their 2018 album, Christmas Party. This album, released late in their career, marked a festive reunion for the surviving members and offered a poignant reminder of their enduring appeal. Their version of “Wonderful Christmastime“, featuring Micky Dolenz on lead vocals, is a testament to their ability to infuse familiar material with their signature blend of pop, rock, and playful energy.
The context of Christmas Party is essential to understanding the Monkees’ interpretation of the song. The album was a special project, bringing together Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork, along with posthumous contributions from Davy Jones. It served as a celebration of their legacy and a final chapter in their storied career. The choice to include “Wonderful Christmastime” alongside original holiday tracks and other covers demonstrates their desire to embrace both the familiar and the new, showcasing their versatility as musicians and entertainers.
Micky Dolenz’s vocal performance on “Wonderful Christmastime” is a key element of their rendition. Known for his energetic stage presence and his powerful, versatile voice, Dolenz brings a sense of joyful exuberance to the song. He captures the celebratory spirit of the lyrics while adding his own distinctive vocal flourishes and phrasing. His performance is both a tribute to McCartney’s original and a celebration of the Monkees’ own musical identity.
Musically, the Monkees’ version of “Wonderful Christmastime” retains the core elements of the original while adding their own sonic touches. The song’s infectious melody and upbeat tempo are preserved, creating a festive and danceable atmosphere. However, the Monkees likely incorporated their signature blend of pop and rock instrumentation, perhaps adding some jangly guitars, driving drums, and harmonies that are characteristic of their sound. The production, helmed by Adam Schlesinger, likely aimed for a balance between honoring the original and creating a sound that is distinctly Monkees.
The inclusion of “Wonderful Christmastime” on Christmas Party also highlights the Monkees’ ability to connect with audiences across generations. While the song was originally a hit for Paul McCartney in 1979, The Monkees’ version introduced it to a new audience, while also appealing to their long-time fans. The song’s timeless message of festive cheer and the Monkees’ enduring popularity made it a perfect fit for their holiday album.
In conclusion, The Monkees’ rendition of “Wonderful Christmastime” is more than just a cover song; it’s a celebration of their musical legacy and their ability to infuse familiar material with their own unique energy and charm. Micky Dolenz’s spirited vocal performance, combined with their signature blend of pop and rock instrumentation, creates a festive and memorable version of this holiday classic. The inclusion of the song on their Christmas Party album serves as a testament to their enduring appeal and their ability to connect with audiences across generations, solidifying their status as one of pop music’s most beloved and influential groups.