As a record collector, I went out and hunted down a lot of my favorites but obviously came nowhere near getting them all. These are some of the favorites that I didn’t own at the time.
“Christmas Is The Time To Say ‘I Love You'” is a holiday song by American rock musician Billy Squier. It was released as a single in 1981 and later included on a Christmas-themed EP, “A Rock and Roll Christmas” in 1983. I heard this song on the radio and then went on a long time hunt. My first find was on the CD, well before I located a 45.
Billy Squier is an American rock musician, singer, and songwriter born on May 12, 1950, in Wellesley, Massachusetts. With a career spanning several decades, Squier achieved significant success in the 1980s with hit songs like “The Stroke” and “Everybody Wants You.”
Known for his powerful vocals and energetic stage presence, Squier’s music often blends elements of rock, pop, and blues. His album “Don’t Say No” (1981) is considered a classic in the rock genre, featuring several popular tracks. Squier’s contribution to rock music, characterized by his dynamic performances and catchy melodies, has left a lasting impact.
While his commercial success waned in the later years, he continues to be recognized as a respected figure in the rock music scene. “Christmas Is The Time To Say ‘I Love You'” captures the joyous and festive spirit of Christmas. It emphasizes the holiday season as a time for expressing love and appreciation for others.
In 1981, a video of the song was recorded with MTV VJs and staff members singing along with a live performance by Squier. VJ Martha Quinn remembers it as her number one moment when working for MTV. A large number of the background singers and revelers was made up of New York and Philadelphia radio and record people, including Anita Gevinson from WMMR.
The lyrics convey the message that Christmas is not just about the material aspects of the season but is also a time to connect with loved ones and share heartfelt sentiments. The song has been covered by Darlene Love, Alexa Vega, and by SR-71. Katharine McPhee recorded a cover of the song on her Christmas album, Christmas is the Time to Say ‘I Love You’, released on October 12, 2010.
Christmas is the time to say "I love you" written by Billy Squier
Christmas is the time to say "I love you"
Share the joys of laughter and good cheer
Christmas is the time to say "I love you"
And a feeling that will last all through the year
On the corner carolers are singing
There's a touch of magic in the air
From grownup to minor no one could be finer
Times are hard but no one seems to care
Christmas Eve and all the world is watching
Santa guides his reindeer through the dark
From rooftop to chimney, from Harlem to Bimini
They will find a way into your heart
Christmas is the time to say "I love you"
Share the joys of laughter and good cheer
Christmas is the time to say "I love you"
And a feeling that will last all through the year
Just outside the window snow is falling
But here beside the fire we share the glow
Of moonlight and brandy, sweet talk and candy
Sentiments that everyone should know
Memories of the year that lays behind us
Wishes for the year that's yet to come
And it stands to reason that good friends in season
Make you feel that life has just begun
Christmas is the time to say "I love you"
Share the joys of laughter and good cheer
Christmas is the time to say "I love you"
And a feeling that will last all through the year
So when spirits grow lighter
And hopes are shinin' brighter
Then you know that Christmas time is here
Further Reading
Sources
- Biography.com. “Billy Squier.” (https://www.biography.com/musician/billy-squier)
- AllMusic. “Billy Squier.” (https://www.allmusic.com/artist/billy-squier-mn0000084429)
- Rolling Stone. “Billy Squier.” (https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/billy-squier-the-lost-rolling-stone-interview-111587/)
- “Christmas Is the Time to Say ‘I Love You'” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_Is_the_Time_to_Say_’I_Love_You’
- “Christmas Is the Time to Say ‘I Love You'” https://genius.com/Billy-squier-christmas-is-the-time-to-say-i-love-you-lyrics
