Jimmy Buffett Gives “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” A Tropical Twist

Jimmy Buffett recorded Brenda Lee's

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The Late Jimmy Buffett Recorded Two Holiday Albums

A few years before his death in 2023, Jimmy Buffett recorded Brenda Lee‘s classic Christmas tune, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.”

Considering Buffett was born on Christmas Day in 1946, it’s somewhat surprising that he only released two holiday albums. His first, Christmas Island, was released in 1996.

That album featured Buffett’s recordings of beloved songs such as “Jingle Bells,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and “Mele Kalikimaka.”

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Buffett released his second (and last) holiday album 20 years later, in 2016. That album, titled ‘Tis the SeaSon, featured more remakes of classic Christmas tunes.

Buffett performed each song in his signature style. He brought beachy vibes to songs such as “Jingle Bell Rock,” “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” and “White Christmas.”

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” was another cover Buffett featured on the album.

Jimmy Buffett Sings Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” In His Signature Style

Buffett’s version of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” was the seventh track on the ‘Tis the SeaSon album. His recording stays similar to Lee’s original tune but has a slight tropical twist.

He also shouts a hilarious exclamation mid-song, saying, “Let’s get baked,” before adding, “Feeling good now.” That’s one thing you won’t hear in Lee’s original recording!

You can listen to Buffett’s unique version of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” in the clip below. We’ll sure be missing him this Christmas…

Jimmy Buffett was devoted to philanthropy. He founded two charitable organizations, Singing for Change and Save the Manatee Club. He also had a company called Last Mango Boatworks that sells apparel and accessories. Items sold from Last Mango benefit Singing for Change and Freedom Fighter Outdoors. Learn more about Jimmy’s philanthropic efforts or donate to one of the above-mentioned organizations here.