Traditional holiday songs are fine. We really do like them. But the best way to get the party rolling is by strutting out a modern take on a Christmas tune.
Over the next pages, we provide you with easy-to-play versions of five Christmas favorites from the past 50+ years. Given that time frame, you can bet there’s at least one “modern” holiday song in the bunch that’s verging on become traditional.
So check ‘em out, and get ready to share them with family and friends this holiday season.
“2000 MILES”
The Pretenders
Written by lead Pretender Chrisse Hynde, “2000 Miles” has become popular as a Christmas time song, thanks to its refrain. Though the song seems to be about two separated lovers, it was written in tribute to James Honeyman-Scott, the Pretenders’ original guitarist, who died June 16, 1982. His role in the band was subsequently taken over by Robbie McIntosh.
“Robbie plays beautifully on ‘2000 Miles’,” singer Chrissie Hynde recalled. “Anything to avoid listening to my voice and my stupid words.”
Millions of holiday revelers would disagree with criticism.
“2000 Miles” is among the easiest-to-play songs of any genre, consisting of just three simple chords: G, C and D.
Time Signature: 6/8
|:| G | C D |
| G | C D |
| G | C D |
| G | C D |:|
| C | D |
| C | D |
| G | C D |
| G | C D |
“JINGLE-BELL ROCK”
Bobby Helms
Released in 1957, “Jingle Bell Rock” was an attempt to co-opt the rock and roll wave and put a fresh spin on the