I've written previously about my general dislike for "Blue Christmas" as a song. Its melody doesn't do much for me, and the lyrics elicit more of a shrug than sympathy from me.
About a week ago, however, I saw Norah Jones and former "Saturday Night Live" cast member Kevin Nealon sing an impromptu version of it on Nealon's "Hiking With Kevin" YouTube series. For the duration of their rendition, I forgot that I disliked the song. In large part, that was due to Jones's voice, which is always pleasant and multifaceted. It's also due, however, to Jones and Nealon making the lyrics sound more wistful than self-pitying. That's the trick, I think, to pulling off a successful version of "Blue Christmas."
I've been sitting on this post for several days, and until last night's "Saturday Night Live," that's where it was going to end. I softened a little on the tune once again when I saw it used as a sendoff for Cecily Strong, one of the most versatile performers the show has had. Having that positive association of "Blue Christmas" as a tribute to such a talented cast member still doesn't make me like Elvis Presley's version--but it reminds me why the song strikes a chord with so many listeners.
