When you think of Christmas music, there’s one song that immediately comes to mind: “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” And the voice behind that timeless tune belongs to none other than Brenda Lee. Despite not being as widely recognized as some of the other music stars from the 1960s, Brenda Lee’s powerful vocals and catchy songs propelled her to become the most successful female artist of her time.
At just 78 years old, Brenda Lee began her musical journey when she was still a young girl who couldn’t even drive. Her talent and passion for singing quickly won over fans, making her a favorite at the tender age of 12. Standing at only 4 foot 9, her voice defied her stature and captivated audiences worldwide.
But Brenda’s success didn’t come without its challenges. At the age of eight, tragedy struck when her father, a construction worker, was killed on the job. As the oldest sibling, Brenda took on the responsibility of providing for her family, which included her younger brother, big sister, and her mother, a hardworking cotton mill worker. Despite the hardships, Brenda embraced her role and cherished the opportunity to help her family. Even earning her first $20 at a young age brought her joy because she knew it made a difference in their lives.
Born Brenda May Tarpley in 1944, she began her musical journey in the late 1940s and soon became a sensation in the 1950s. Her remarkable career started before she even finished elementary school, and she went on to top the charts an incredible 55 times, earning her the title of the most successful female recording artist of the 1960s.
Brenda Lee’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. Often referred to as a “pioneer of early rock and roll,” she achieved unprecedented international popularity in the 1960s. Despite her legendary status, Brenda remains incredibly humble and always acknowledges the people who helped her along the way. When asked about being a legend, she humbly replied, “I’m just a girl who’s been really blessed to be doing what I’m doing, and there’s a lot of people who’ve sweated a lot of tears and put a lot of life’s work into me to be able to have my dream. So, if I’m a legend, then they’re legends, too.”
Brenda’s musical journey began when she joined country star Red Foley for a show at the Bell Auditorium near her hometown of Augusta in 1956. It was there that she mesmerized millions of viewers with her sassy performance of Hank Williams’ “Jambalaya.” This led to her signing with Decca Records and eventually moving to Nashville, Tennessee. There, Brenda fused country with rhythm and blues and recorded early rockabilly classics like “BIGELOW 6-200,” “Little Jonah,” and “Let’s Jump the Broomstick.” Her unique voice, characterized by its hiccup-like quality, set her apart and made her an instant hit.
Despite her young age, Brenda didn’t feel nervous performing in front of large crowds. Singing in front of people had become second nature to her since the age of 3. The stage felt like home, a place where she felt comfortable and could fully express herself. Her confidence and natural talent shone through every performance.
In 1957, Brenda earned the nickname “Little Miss Dynamite” for her powerhouse recording of the song “Dynamite.” Just a year later, at the age of 13, she released the genre and generation-crossing holiday classic, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Brenda knew she had something special with that song, and its magic continues to captivate listeners to this day.
Over the next few years, Brenda continued to dominate the charts with hits like “Sweet Nuthin’s,” “All Alone Am I,” and “Fool #1.” Her songs often belied her own experiences as a young girl. While her peers were dating and experiencing young love, Brenda’s mother kept a tight rein on her personal life, and she graduated high school without truly understanding heartbreak.
But fate had other plans for Brenda. At the age of 16, she would go on to sing about the cruelties of love in the hit song “I’m Sorry,” and yearned for passionate kisses in “I Want to be Wanted,” both back-to-back hits while she was still in school. And at the age of 18, Brenda met Ronnie Shacklett, whom she would marry and enjoy a loving relationship for over 60 years.
Growing up in the world of music had its challenges for Brenda. She recalls celebrating her 12th birthday in Las Vegas and feeling the loneliness of being a young performer far from home. Despite the glitz and glamour, Brenda wasn’t even allowed to step foot in a casino. But it was on the stage where she found solace and joy. Vegas may not have been a kid-friendly place, but the applause and love from her audiences made it all worthwhile.
Reflecting on her childhood, Brenda admits there were times when she longed to be with her friends instead of constantly being on the road. However, she also made new friends along the way, including some of the biggest names in the music industry. Brenda had the opportunity to hang out with John Lennon during a show in Germany in 1962. She describes him as intelligent, witty, and a genuinely kind person. It was a pleasant surprise for Brenda to later learn that the Beatles were fans of her music.
Brenda Lee’s circle of friends extended beyond John Lennon. She also danced with Elvis Presley and shared a friendship with the late Little Richard, whom she had known since the 1960s. In 2019, both Brenda Lee and Little Richard were honored at the Governor’s Arts Awards, receiving Distinguished Artist awards. Sadly, it would be Little Richard’s last public appearance before his passing at the age of 87 in May 2020. Brenda fondly remembers dancing to Little Richard’s music as a young girl and considers him a true musical genius.
Throughout her life, Brenda has relied on her faith, and she attributes much of her personal and professional success to it. She acknowledges that while she played a role in choosing her husband, it was God who was looking out for her. Brenda wanted someone with integrity, honesty, and love, and she found all of that in Ronnie Shacklett.
Today, Brenda Lee’s impact can still be felt. She may have retired from performing, but her music continues to be adored, especially during the holiday season. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” a song that has been a Christmas staple for 65 years and counting, reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts in 2019, nearly six decades after its original recording. Brenda describes the experience of hearing her own song while shopping in a department store as surreal and a wonderful gift.
Decades later, Brenda Lee continues to bring joy to fans with her happy music. Her voice and songs evoke feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and holiday cheer. So, as we approach the holiday season, let’s take a moment to appreciate the enduring legacy of Brenda Lee and the countless memories her music has given us.
What are your favorite memories of Brenda Lee? Share your thoughts and let the holiday spirit fill the air!
