How Brenda Lee’S “This Time Of The Year” Became A Christmas Classic

March 20, 2025

In the winter of 1964, the air was filled with the excitement and joy of the holiday season. Little did anyone know that a young singer named Brenda Lee would soon create a song that would warm hearts for generations to come. Brenda, often called “Little Miss Dynamite” because of her powerful voice and stage presence, was just 19 years old when she recorded “This Time of the Year.” The song was meant to evoke the warmth and spirit of Christmas, and it struck a chord with listeners everywhere. It was a blend of longing and celebration, capturing the essence of what the holiday season meant to families across the country.

Brenda’s journey to this moment was not easy. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, she faced a tough childhood. Despite her family’s struggles, music was always her escape. She would sing at local events and soon gained popularity. By the time she booked her session to record “This Time of the Year,” Brenda had already tasted success with hits like “I’m Sorry” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” However, the pressure of maintaining that success weighed heavily on her young shoulders. During the recording session, Brenda poured her heart into every note, feeling the bittersweet emotions that often come during the holiday season. Her passion and determination shone through, transforming the song into something special.

When “This Time of the Year” was released, it resonated deeply with listeners. Families began to include it in their holiday playlists, and soon it became a staple during Christmas parties and gatherings. However, the song’s popularity was sometimes overshadowed by other Christmas hits. Brenda faced this challenge with grace and resilience. She continued to perform, believing in her music and the joy it could bring. Over the years, as nostalgia grew and traditional Christmas music was cherished, her song began to gain renewed attention.

Brenda’s determination paid off. By the 1980s, “This Time of the Year” had become a beloved Christmas classic, celebrated for its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics. As people embraced the song, it became intertwined with their own holiday traditions, bringing memories of laughter, love, and togetherness. Brenda found herself invited to perform it on television specials and at concert halls, where audiences sang along, their voices blending with hers in harmony. The song had created a connection, not just between Brenda and her listeners, but among families sharing the season’s spirit.

As the years rolled on, Brenda Lee’s career flourished, but she never forgot the little song that had become a giant in the world of holiday music. Each time she performed “This Time of the Year,” tears of joy would fill her eyes, reminding her of the struggles she had faced and the love that music had brought into her life. She often spoke about how grateful she felt to have touched so many lives with her music, and how the song served as a reminder that even in tough times, there was always a reason to celebrate and share joy with others.

Today, Brenda Lee’s “This Time of the Year” remains a cherished holiday classic, a symbol of resilience and the unwavering power of music to bring people together. Through her story, we learn the importance of following our passions, believing in ourselves, and the magic that can be found in the music that connects us all. Brenda’s journey is a testament to the belief that with hard work, faith, and a little bit of holiday spirit, we can overcome challenges and create something truly special.