Jingle Bell Rock has become a holiday classic, often topping charts multiple times over its long career and being covered by artists ranging from Reba McEntire to Kelly Clarkson.
Helms only had a handful of Hot 100 chart hits, yet one remains an annual holiday tradition decades after his passing. Due to on-demand streaming playback, it regularly reenters the top ten.
The Story
As Christmas draws nearer, its melodious strains can be heard ringing out across radios and shopping center speakers. But how did this catchy tune that blends rock’n’roll with festive spirit become such an enduring classic?
Bobby Helms first recorded his version in 1957 and it quickly became a hit. Though initially uncertain of mixing rock’n’roll with traditional holiday music, Helms ultimately succumbed and his song went on to reach platinum status.
Helms has not only maintained regular performance royalties for Beal and Boothe since their deaths; he continued touring until his final days before succumbing to emphysema and passing away near Martinsville, Indiana in 1997. Its long-term popularity can be seen by its chart performance; regularly appearing within the Top 50 year after year as evidenced by various artists performing different versions of it.
The Music
Jingle Bell Rock is an energetic, fast-paced song. Beginning with an upbeat reggae beat and progressing to an eye-catching rock melody, this tune also boasts some cool guitar riffs which can be enjoyed while trying to emulate Bobby Helms or Kelly Clarkson’s sound by sliding your fingers down fretboard while slightly bending them for that familiar “jingle bell” sound. Jingle bell time makes an excellent excuse for one horse sleigh rides!
The Lyrics
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Jingle Bell Rock is a lively up tempo Christmas song that’s both engaging to play and sing, often seen around holiday celebrations and enjoyed by many people. Not difficult to learn, this country classic will surely bring cheer at any holiday gathering or party.
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The Chords
Learn the chords for Jingle Bell Rock easily on guitar with these simple-to-follow sheet music tabs, available only as digital download. After completing your purchase, an email with instructions on how to download will be sent directly to you. A carousel using left and right arrows allows users to move through images while pausing at any time to view images more closely – click any image for a larger view!
Jingle Bell Rock’s chords are among the easiest of any Christmas tune to play, making this song ideal for beginners. Simply combine and a-mingle them for an infectious holiday beat reminiscent of rock music’s sound!