When I was young, one of my family's favorite Christmas albums came with our new RCA stereo, a compilation of 70s stars like Mark Lindsay (of Paul Revere and the Raiders) and Andy Williams singing various Christmas tunes. To this day, my brothers and I frequently talk about our favorite song on the album, "That Holiday Feeling" by Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme. Two things we love about this song are the corny lyrics and flirty inflections that Steve and Eydie give to them.
That Holiday Feeling
Words and Music by Bill Jacob and Patty Jacob
Look how the snow is snowing
Your eyes are soft and glowing
Jack Frost is nipping at our feet
I'll bet your lips are warm and sweet
We've got that holiday feeling
That happy holiday feeling
Let's roast chestnuts by the fire
Any little thing you desire
Those reindeer soon will be here
Won't mean a thing to me dear
When Santa Claus begins his flight
I hope he gets a flat tonight
We've got that holiday feeling
That happy holiday feeling
Our favorite holiday of the year
You'd better leave
It's been so lovely like this
A chance I'd never miss
But it's so late
On New Years Eve
At twelve o'clock we'll stop to kiss
And while the whole world will be whistle blowing
We will still be mistletoe-ing
You think you're such a smarty
Come on let's have a party
I know what's running through your mind
This is the season to be kind
We've got that holiday feeling
That happy holiday feeling
So come and snuggle close to me
Right here where you're supposed to be
Let's kiss, 'cause it's the season, dear
Let's kiss, who needs a reason, dear
We've got that holiday feeling now
It seems an unusual song now for a family of sheltered kids to love--but the lines we continue to quote are "You think you're such a smarty, come on let's have a party." Those innocent lyrics still amuse us to no end. Even better is the lounge act sound that Steve and Eydie's version embodies. They take turns singing different lines so that it seems they are engaged in conversation. And there's a teasing sound to their tone that creates an intimate and affectionate expression.
This song will always be part of my holiday celebrations. It reminds me of childhood and laughter and love. So to my brothers and parents . . . I hope you are enjoying this holiday season and that all you smarties will have great parties.
