“Up On the Housetop” is a popular Christmas carol that has been enjoyed by generations of families during the holiday season. This upbeat and cheerful tune has been a staple of Christmas music for many years and is still a popular choice for holiday sing-a-longs and family gatherings. In this article, we will explore the history and origins of “Up On the Housetop” and why it has remained such a beloved Christmas song.
The History of “Up On the Housetop”
“Up On the Housetop” was first published in 1864 by Benjamin Hanby. Hanby was a songwriter and composer who lived in the mid-19th century and was known for his lively and joyful melodies. “Up On the Housetop” was one of his most successful compositions and has since become a beloved holiday classic.
Up On The Housetop
Up on the housetop yeah, yeah
Up on the housetop
Up on the housetop click, click, click
Out jumps good ol’ Santa Claus
Down through the chimney with lots of toys
All for the little ones’ Christmas joys
Ho ho ho, who wouldn’t go
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Up on the housetop yeah, yeah
Up on the housetop
Up on the housetop click, click, click
Oh dear Santa fill it well
Give her a dolly that laughs and cries
One that can open and shut its eyes
Ho ho ho, who wouldn’t go
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Up on the housetop yeah, yeah
Up on the housetop
Up on the housetop click, click, click
Oh just see what a glorious fill
Here is a hammer and lots of tacks
A whistle and a ball and a whip that cracks
Ho ho ho, who wouldn’t go
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Up on the housetop yeah, yeah
Up on the housetop
Up on the housetop
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen
Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen
Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen
Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen
Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen
Ho ho ho, who wouldn’t go
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Up on the housetop yeah yeah
Up on the housetop
Up on the housetop, click, click, click (ah)
The Origins of “Up On the Housetop”
The origins of “Up On the Housetop” are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been inspired by the old German folk tale of St. Nicholas, who was known for delivering gifts to children on Christmas Eve. In the song, the children eagerly await the arrival of St. Nicholas, hoping to receive gifts from him. The upbeat and cheerful melody of “Up On the Housetop” perfectly captures the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve.
The Lyrics of “Up On the Housetop”
The lyrics of “Up On the Housetop” are simple and straightforward, making it easy to sing along and remember. The song begins with the children eagerly awaiting the arrival of St. Nicholas and then goes on to describe the various gifts that he delivers to each of them. The final verse of the song expresses the children’s joy and gratitude for their gifts and ends with a wish for a Merry Christmas to all.
The Melody of “Up On the Housetop”
The melody of “Up On the Housetop” is lively and upbeat, with a playful and joyful rhythm that perfectly captures the excitement of the holiday season. The song has a catchy and memorable tune that makes it easy to sing along and remember, even for those who may not be familiar with the lyrics.
The Popularity of “Up On the Housetop”
“Up On the Housetop” has remained popular for over 150 years, making it one of the most enduring Christmas carols of all time. The song’s cheerful melody, upbeat rhythm, and joyful lyrics have made it a favorite among families and holiday enthusiasts, who enjoy singing it together during the holiday season.
Performances of “Up On the Housetop”
“Up On the Housetop” is a popular song for holiday performances, and has been performed by a variety of artists and groups over the years. From children’s choirs to professional musicians, “Up On the Housetop” has been a staple of Christmas concerts and performances for generations.
Conclusion:
“Up On the Housetop” is a beloved Christmas carol that has been enjoyed by generations of families during the holiday season. From its upbeat and joyful melody to its simple and straightforward lyrics, “Up On the Housetop” perfectly captures the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Eve. Whether it is being performed by a choir, a group of friends, or by a single individual, “Up On the Housetop” will always be a beloved Christmas classic. So gather your family and friends, and sing along to this timeless holiday song
