Brenda Lee's Holiday Song Named Tennessee's Official Anthem

Brenda Lee's iconic song 'Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree' was officially designated as Tennessee's first Official Holiday Song during a ceremony at the State Capitol, attended by Governor Bill Lee and Representative Jason Powell. The song, recorded when Lee was just 13 in 1958, saw a resurgence in popularity when it topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time in December 2023, marking 65 years since its original release. Rep. Powell, who filed the legislation to honor Lee, emphasized her status as a 'music icon and a true Tennessee treasure.' Lee expressed gratitude, acknowledging the collaborative effort behind her enduring success. With over 100 million records sold and being the first woman inducted into both the Rock and Roll and Country Music Halls of Fame, Lee's legacy is firmly tied to Nashville. The proclamation solidifies her song's place in Tennessee's cultural history, which has spread joy across generations.