The one thing that you can always count on this time of year in England is hearing Slade’s classic Christmas song, “Merry Xmas Everybody”. Whether it’s on a tv commercial, background music for Christmas shoppers or playing in the local pub - it’s there. Since hitting number one in the UK charts in December 1973 “Merry Xmas Everybody” continues to be played annually this time of year.

After re-entering the charts over the years following it’s success in 1973, “Merry Xmas Everybody” is set for release again on December 4th, 2006 which will then be the official start of the race - to see who will be the next Christmas Number One. If I were to place a bet I might just put my money down on Slade. After all, it’s a great English Christmas anthem and even if it wasn’t being officially released again, we would still be hearing it everywhere we go.

From what I’ve observed since living in England, even though “Merry Xmas Everybody” has been ingrained into the souls of all who have lived here over the years, somehow it still seems to be a welcome addition to most Christmas parties, pubs and cd collections during the holiday season. It’s definitely one of those songs that people naturally sing along to. I had never heard the song before I came here, but now I feel like it’s been in my memory since childhood.

Along with “Merry Xmas Everybody”, Slade is also re-releasing their single “Cum On Feel The Noize” which was also a big hit for Quiet Riot in the 80’s.

Both singles are off of the re-mastered CD reissue of Crackers The Rockin’ Party Album!. Released by Union Square Records, the tracks have been remastered by Tim Turan who oddly enough lives down the road from me - and is an excellent drummer.

Watch the video of Slade playing “Merry Xmas Everybody” on Top of the Pops in 1973.

Slade’s Official Website

By: Jenny May

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