Harry Nilsson Remember Christmas Song And Album Legacy

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with some classic Christmas tunes? Among the many talented artists who have contributed to the holiday music canon, Harry Nilsson stands out for his timeless and whimsical song "Remember (Christmas)". But that's not all - Nilsson also left us with a wonderful Christmas album that continues to delight audiences to this day.

For those who may not be familiar with Harry Nilsson, he was an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his eclectic and inventive style, which spanned multiple genres including pop, rock, and children's music. With a career spanning over four decades, Nilsson released numerous albums and singles that have become beloved by fans around the world.

"Remember (Christmas)" is a poignant and bittersweet song that captures the complexities of the holiday season. Written by Nilsson himself, the song features his signature soaring vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement that perfectly complements the song's themes of nostalgia and longing. Released in 1972, "Remember (Christmas)" has since become a holiday classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and TV shows.

But "Remember (Christmas)" is just one part of Nilsson's holiday legacy. His 1972 album "Son of Schmilsson" features a range of Christmas songs, including the aforementioned "Remember (Christmas)", as well as other originals like "The Puppy Song" and "The Most Beautiful World in the World". The album is a masterclass in Nilsson's ability to craft songs that are both humorous and heartfelt, making it a must-listen for fans of holiday music.

The Story Behind "Son of Schmilsson"

"Son of Schmilsson" was released in 1972, just a year after Nilsson's breakthrough album "Nilsson Schmilsson". The album was a critical and commercial success, thanks in part to the hit single "Without You", which reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. But despite its success, Nilsson was determined to take a different approach with his next album.

In a 1972 interview with Rolling Stone, Nilsson explained that he wanted to create an album that was more experimental and playful than his previous work. He drew inspiration from a range of sources, including classical music, jazz, and even children's songs. The result was "Son of Schmilsson", an album that features some of Nilsson's most innovative and whimsical work.

Tracklisting and Highlights

"Son of Schmilsson" features a range of holiday songs, including:

• "The Puppy Song"
• "The Most Beautiful World in the World"
• "Remember (Christmas)"
• "Joy to the World"
• "What Does a Woman See in a Man"

The album also features several non-holiday tracks, including the hit single "Spaceman" and the humorous "Ambush".

Legacy and Impact

"Son of Schmilsson" may not have been as commercially successful as some of Nilsson's other albums, but it has developed a cult following over the years. The album's innovative production and Nilsson's signature wit and charm have made it a beloved holiday classic.

In recent years, "Son of Schmilsson" has been recognized as a influential holiday album by several publications, including Rolling Stone and Pitchfork. The album's unique blend of humor, nostalgia, and pathos has also made it a staple of holiday playlists around the world.

Cover Versions and Tributes

"Remember (Christmas)" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including:

• Ella Fitzgerald
• Diana Krall
• Josh Groban
• Michael Bublé

The song has also been featured in several films and TV shows, including "Love Actually" and "The Office".

Conclusion

Harry Nilsson's "Remember (Christmas)" and "Son of Schmilsson" album are a testament to the artist's innovative spirit and his ability to craft songs that are both timeless and timely. As we celebrate the holiday season, we would do well to revisit Nilsson's holiday legacy and experience the joy and wonder of his music.

So why not give "Son of Schmilsson" a listen this holiday season? We promise you won't be disappointed!