About the song
Originally released in 1963 as part of their holiday collection, “Sleigh Ride” by The Ronettes has become one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time. This festive track, produced by the legendary Phil Spector, embodies the quintessential “Wall of Sound” technique that became his signature. “Sleigh Ride” was featured on the album A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector, a holiday classic that continues to be celebrated for its exceptional production and timeless appeal.
The song itself, written by Leroy Anderson and Mitchell Parish, was originally composed as an instrumental in 1948, with the lyrics being added a few years later. However, it was the The Ronettes’ rendition, with their distinct vocal harmonies and Spector’s unique production style, that truly brought the song into the mainstream as a Christmas standard. With Ronnie Spector’s powerful and emotive lead vocals at the forefront, “Sleigh Ride” takes on a joyful, exuberant quality, making it a favorite during the holiday season.
One of the most notable aspects of “Sleigh Ride” is its joyful, almost cinematic feel. The upbeat tempo, coupled with the sweeping strings and brassy instrumental arrangement, evokes images of a snowy winter’s day, complete with the sound of horses galloping along a snow-covered path. The Ronettes’ harmonies elevate the cheerful tone of the song, bringing a sense of warmth and playfulness that has made it a perennial favorite at Christmastime.
While “Sleigh Ride” is, at its core, a holiday song, it also carries deeper social and cultural significance. Released during a time when the holiday season was already commercialized, the song helped solidify the role of Christmas music in mainstream pop culture. The song’s infectious spirit and festive cheer helped define the sound of the 1960s, as the Ronettes were at the height of their popularity. Their “girl group” sound—with its combination of innocence, romance, and exuberance—provided the perfect backdrop for the optimism and joy that Christmas music often embodies.
But “Sleigh Ride” is more than just a song—it represents a time in music history when the boundaries between pop and holiday music were less distinct. The success of The Ronettes‘ holiday offerings, including “Sleigh Ride”, helped set a precedent for future holiday music releases by major artists, and it was one of the first instances of a pop group contributing such a definitive version of a Christmas song.
In terms of societal influence, “Sleigh Ride” has remained a holiday staple for decades. It has been featured in countless TV shows, movies, and commercials, cementing its place as part of the fabric of Christmas pop culture. Whether playing in the background during holiday gatherings, or as part of Christmas playlists, its enduring popularity shows how timeless it has become. The Ronettes‘ version, with its festive energy and upbeat nature, continues to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth every holiday season.
In conclusion, “Sleigh Ride” by The Ronettes remains one of the defining moments of 1960s pop music and Christmas music alike. Thanks to its lively tempo, lush production, and powerful vocal performance, the song has transcended its original context to become a beloved holiday classic. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Phil Spector’s production and The Ronettes’ unforgettable sound.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring tingle tingling too
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Come on, it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling “Yoo hoo!”
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Come on, it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)[Verse 2]
Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy and cozy are we
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Were snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Let’s take the road before us and sing a chorus or two
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Come on, it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)[Interlude]
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)[Verse 3]
Our cheeks are nice and rosy and comfy and cozy are we
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Were snuggled up together like two birds of a feather would be
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Let’s take the road before us and sing a chorus or two
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
Come on, it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding!)
(Ring-a-ling-a
Ding
Dong
Ding!