

The Queen of Christmas
Dec 23, 2019
Discover the fascinating journey of Mariah Carey’s holiday classic, which went from reluctant creation to a global anthem in just 25 years. Dive into the musical evolution of Christmas songs and how their iconic structures create unforgettable moments. Explore the cultural significance of sleigh bells and how streaming transformed the way we consume holiday music. Analyze the impact of modern charting dynamics and algorithms that shape listener behavior, revealing the complex relationship between personal taste and music popularity.
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Mariah's Christmas Gamble
- In 1994, Mariah Carey, at her career peak, released a Christmas song.
- This was unusual, as peak artists typically avoid such ventures.
Christmas Hit Formula
- Christmas hits require referencing the past, nostalgic chords, strong vocals, and sleigh bells.
- Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" hits all these marks.
Song Structure
- Unlike most modern pop songs with verse-chorus form, "All I Want for Christmas Is You" uses AABA form, like older songs.
- This structure, with the hook at the beginning, gives it a nostalgic feel.