I Want to Come Home for Christmas
Marvin Gaye
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I'd give anything to see A little Christmas tree And to hear, hear the laughter Of children playing in the snow (Woo) to kiss my baby, under the mistletoe But I can't promise my eyes this sight Unless they stop the fight 'Cause I'm a prisoner of war Lying here in my cell Hoping my family is well Wish they wouldn't worry so much about me Just try to get us home In time for the Christmas tree Listen Oh yeah, oh 'Cause I Want to see snowflakes fall I, want to see Santa Claus Oh, I want to hear jingle bells Want to hear jingle bells ringing But I can't promise my eyes this sight Unless they stop the fight Ooo, ooo, ooo If I can't make it home in time I know you'll be keeping my spirits bright By wearing my name, trying to stop this fight Ah, but I'd give anything to see you the family And that little Christmas tree (Woo) I want to (want to see snowflakes fall) see snowflakes fall I want to see Santa Claus Oh, I want to hear jingle bells ringing Yes, I want to hear jingle bells ringing Oh, I want to see snowflakes fall I want to see Santa Claus Oh, I want to hear jingle bells ringing, ringing I want to hear jingle bells (ringing) ringing Oh, I want to see snowflakes fall I, want to see Santa Claus Darling, I want to hear jingle bells ringing I miss you babe I want to hear jingle bells, I miss you darling, I miss the kids Oh, I want to see snowflakes fall I, want to see Santa Claus I want to hear jingle bells, oh I want to hear jingle bells
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Written by: Forest Hairston, Marvin Gaye, Marvin P Gaye
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Song Background"I Want to Come Home for Christmas" is a holiday song by Marvin Gaye that was recorded in 1972.
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Historical ContextThe song was a product of its time, offering an alternative holiday message during the Vietnam War era. It tells the story of a captured soldier who yearns to return home to his family for Christmas.
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Release DetailsThe song wasn't immediately released after its recording. In fact, it was not officially issued until 16 years after it was recorded, included on the 1990 'The Marvin Gaye Collection' box set.
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Lyricist and ComposerMarvin Gaye co-wrote the song with Forest Hairston, who was a member of the Motown stable of writers and was specifically known for his work as a choir director and arranger.
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Musical StyleUnlike traditional carols, this Christmas song has a distinct Motown sound characterized by Gaye's soulful vocals and is laced with melancholic tones reflective of the war's direct impact on people's lives, especially during the holiday season.
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Notable LyricsOne poignant line from the song goes: "I want to see Santa Claus, the little children, all the joy that Christmas brings, but it's gonna be sad."
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Cover VersionsThe song has been covered by various artists, including the prominent R&B group, "Ne-Yo" in 2009, and the renowned Motown artist "Andra Day" in 2016.
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Commercial PerformanceDespite being less recognized and played than other Christmas songs, it became a notable part of Marvin Gaye’s legacy and a classic holiday track mainly during the holidays.
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Critical AcclaimThe song has been praised for its unique take on Christmas and its social relevance during its release, shedding light on the heartbreak of families separated by the war during the holiday season.
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Legacy"I Want to Come Home for Christmas" remains one of the few anti-war Christmas songs and is a testament to Marvin Gaye's ability to blend social commentary with popular music.
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Citation
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"I Want to Come Home for Christmas Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 20 Sep. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/35339498/Marvin+Gaye/I+Want+to+Come+Home+for+Christmas>.
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