The Christmas Single That Never Released, But Was Secretly Recorded During Steppenwolf 7

April 1, 2025

The air in the studio hummed with energy as the members of Steppenwolf gathered for what they thought would be a routine recording session. It was the summer of 1970, and they were deep into crafting their album, Steppenwolf 7. Everyone was buzzing with excitement, especially John Kay, the frontman whose raspy voice had already delivered hits like “Born to Be Wild” and “Magic Carpet Ride.” As the first notes floated through the room, a spark ignited within him. It was then that John felt an unusual pull to create something special—something that had nothing to do with the standard rock anthems that filled the airwaves.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, John suggested a different type of song to the band—a Christmas single. The rest of the group raised their eyebrows in surprise. Who would want to hear a Christmas song from a rock band famous for its rebellious spirit? But John was undeterred; he was determined to capture the warmth and hope of the holiday season. He envisioned a melody that could resonate in the hearts of listeners, a song that could shine a light in the darker months of winter. With a mixture of uncertainty and excitement, the band began to work on the track, pouring their souls into every note.

The song came together beautifully, filled with joy and nostalgia. They recorded it late at night, laughter and camaraderie echoing in the studio. John penned lyrics that spoke of love, family, and togetherness—everything that the holiday season represented. Yet, just as they were about to finalize the track, the winds of change blew through the music industry. The label pushed back, worried that a Christmas single would confuse fans and dilute their rock image. The message was clear: the song would never see the light of day. With heavy hearts, the band members agreed to shelve it, believing that it was just too risky to release.

Despite the disappointment, the experience taught John a valuable lesson. He learned to stand firm in his convictions and to listen to his heart, regardless of what the mainstream dictated. For years, he kept that song tucked away, a precious memory of creativity and passion. Each holiday season, he would replay it in his mind, reminding him that music was about more than just commercial success; it was about connection. While the world outside might have been chaotic, that Christmas single embodied a message of hope, a reminder that love prevails even in uncertainty.

As the years went by, Steppenwolf continued to thrive, but John never forgot that hidden gem. In 1990, during a concert, he decided to share the song with the audience for the first time in its entirety. The crowd erupted in applause, and for a moment, it felt as if the spirit of Christmas had wrapped around everyone present. John beamed with pride, realizing the powerful impact of that forgotten track. It wasn’t just a song—it was a testament to resilience, a symbol of how music could lift spirits and bring people together, especially during the holidays.

That Christmas single, recorded in secret, may have never been officially released, but it became a part of John’s legacy. It taught him that true artistry often defies the limits set by industry norms. Even without the recognition it deserved, the song’s message spread warmth to those who needed it most. In the end, it was a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the most precious things in life are the ones we carry in our hearts, waiting for the right moment to shine.