By: Tony Manfetano Whether it is heartfelt stories of good will, religious exalting, or tales of yule tide trailer park debauchery country music has always reserved a special place for holiday songs. This year Kenny Chesney is bidding us a warm Merry Christmas, both figuratively and literally, from the caribbean with his new single “Christmas In Blue Chair Bay”.
The four time CMA entertainer of the year’s first holiday music since 2003’s “All I Want For Christmas Is A Real Good Tan”, debuts following the acclaimed release of his latest album “The Big Revival”. Of which’s first single “American Kids” has already been perched up at no.1 for multiple weeks.
“Christmas In Blue Chair Bay” is a fully acoustic track that defies anyone who hears it not to start swaying. Chesney has always had a way of amalgamating his east Tennessee roots with the gulf coastal, island hopping sound he has made his trademark. Mix that up with venerable writing and the fact that his voice seems only to sound better with every record, add some new Blue Chair Bay coconut spiced rum cream, shake over ice, and pour out my favorite song of the season thus far.
From palm tree lights and boat parades to glib teasing of frozen northern neighbors all with a reverent undertone this track encompasses Christmas in the tropics. This song is not just a series of hearkening visuals, but a capturing of an emotion, a lifestyle. “It seems like there are few times of the year when you can really unplug, really just be in the moment with your family and friends – and celebrate how great life is” -Chesney
As we sled down that steep slope ever more rapidly into the holidays I have to imagine all the time Kenny has been spending in Barbados with his Blue Chair Bay Rum company may have had something to do with this calypso inspired tune, which is currently available via all major outlets.
Chesney will be heading out come March for the Big Revival Tour joined on select dates by Jason Aldean and Brantley Gilbert.
Check out KennyChesney.com for more info. In the mean time, turn the tree lights on, mix up a Blue Chair Bay and eggnog, put the song on, close your eyes and drift away to “Christmas In Blue Chair Bay”.
