• What's Up Columbia!
  • Posts
  • Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" Named Tennessee's Official Holiday Song

Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" Named Tennessee's Official Holiday Song

Issue #293

07 Dec

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

🗓 List of Upcoming Events

☀️ Columbia Weather - Sunny with a high of 53 / low of 38

📰 Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" Named Tennessee's Official Holiday Song

📰 Ultium Cells Raises $6,570 for Maury Regional Women’s Center

📌 Dec. 6-26: Nashville’s Nutcracker

👉 Check Out The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Fun in Maury County & More Here

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

⛑ Looking For Ways to Help Victims of Hurricane Helene? Click Here

🗓 Know of Some Local Events Not Listed? Send us the Details!

Upcoming Local Events

🗓 Have an event to add? Send us the Details!

Saturday, December 7th

Sunday, December 8th

Monday, December 9th

Tuesday, December 10th

Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" Named Tennessee's Official Holiday Song

Country and rock music icon Brenda Lee was honored at the Tennessee State Capitol on Monday for her timeless 1958 holiday classic, "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree." The song, a staple of holiday playlists, has been officially designated as Tennessee's first Official Holiday Song.

Lee was presented with a signed proclamation during a ceremony in Nashville, attended by Gov. Bill Lee and Representative Jason Powell, who introduced the bill to recognize her work. The honor comes after the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time in 2022, more than six decades after its release. Powell’s bill was signed into law earlier this year.

Originally recorded in 1958 when Lee was just 13 years old, "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" was created at the iconic Quonset Hut Studio on Music Row. Over the years, the song has become a cornerstone of her illustrious career, which includes selling over 100 million records and achieving groundbreaking success. Lee is the first woman to be inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

The song set a record in 2022 for the longest time between a song's release and reaching No. 1 on the Billboard charts—65 years. At the same time, it made Lee the oldest woman to ever achieve a No. 1 hit. The track remains a beloved piece of her nearly 70-year career, blending country, rockabilly, and pop music in ways that broke barriers and inspired generations.

A Georgia native who moved to Nashville in 1957, Lee attributes her success to collaboration, crediting her producers, musicians, and fans for their support over the years. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and for the enduring popularity of her work.

Brenda is featured in a new documentary on Nashville PBS, Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around, which premiered on Thursday, Dec. 5. Catch the encore broadcasts today, Dec. 7, at 8 and 11 p.m.

Ultium Cells Raises $6,570 for Maury Regional Women’s Center

Ultium Cells announced the success of its first annual Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser, which raised $6,570 to support the Women’s Center at Maury Regional Health. The funds will assist in providing essential treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and infusion therapies. Additionally, the proceeds will support resources like a wig bank, lymphedema garments, and financial aid for eligible patients.

In October, the company launched its "Paint the Plant Pink" initiative to raise awareness. Team members participated by wearing breast cancer awareness apparel every Wednesday and by promoting the importance of early detection. As part of these efforts, a mammogram van was made available for employees and their families.

The Women’s Center at Maury Regional Health offers patients and their families access to advanced treatments, clinical specialists, and comprehensive support services, ensuring care tailored to their needs.

For more information about the Women’s Center and its services, visit: Maury Regional Women’s Center

Dec. 6-26: Nashville’s Nutcracker

This timeless holiday tradition is filled with history and wonder and set to live music by The Nashville Symphony. Embark on a magical journey this holiday season with Nashville's Nutcracker by Paul Vasterling, a cherished tradition that brings together history, magic, and dance. Winner of a 2020 Emmy Award-winning film and named the Best Dance Production of 2022 by Broadway World Nashville, this is Nashville’s can’t-miss holiday event. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant city, this performance invites audiences of all ages to revel in the splendor of the Sugar Plum Fairy's kingdom, the fierceness of the Mouse King, and the timeless adventure of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince. Experience the joy and wonder of this classic tale reimagined, capturing the heart and spirit of Nashville with live music by The Nashville Symphony. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of music, dance, and storytelling that embodies the magic of the holidays.

Dates: December 6 - 26

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

Saturday, December 7th

TBD, Natchez Hills Vineyard, 4-7 PM
Karli & James, Puckett’s, 7:30-9 PM
World Turning Band, The Mulehouse, 8 PM

Sunday, December 8th

TBD, Natchez Hills Vineyard, 1-4 PM
County Community Band, Cherry Theater - CSCC, 3 PM
Still Rollin’, The Rebel, 4 PM
Jay Hoppus, Puckett’s, 6-7:30 PM

👇 Click the Links to Learn About our Local Business Sponsors! 👇

Want to get your business in What’s Up Columbia? Let’s talk

(Sponsor)

Seeking impartial news? Meet 1440.

Every day, 3.5 million readers turn to 1440 for their factual news. We sift through 100+ sources to bring you a complete summary of politics, global events, business, and culture, all in a brief 5-minute email. Enjoy an impartial news experience.