'My New Christmas Video Single'

As you will know, if you follow this blog or keep in touch with my Maybrick44 Youtube channel, I am in the habit of recording a brand new Christmas song each year as a kind of homage to the days in the 1970's when a lot of recording artists did the same in order to try and secure the cherished No 1 spot in the charts over Christmas. In those days there was no such thing as the 'X-Factor' and so it was a relatively straight 'fight' fop pop acts who wanted to come up with a special single to try and capture the festive mood. Though it is not a very original choice, I personally think that the best Christmas single of all time is 'Merry Christmas Everybody' by Slade because it is not only festive but probably the most joyous, bouncy and fun rockin' party record ever made as well...

I may not always make Christmas records you can dance like that to but I have had my moments over the years with songs like 'If Santa Was A D.J.' and 'December 1973'. This years song, 'You Can't Take Christmas Away From Me', however is a rarity. Its a sad song with poignant lyrics, a defiant, 'NOTHING is going to ruin my Christmas' type attitude and a positive Christmas message all rolled into one. Having lost two long standing and close friends this year I was inspired to write it as a dedication to them both and especially to my friend, Alan Gaywood, who suffered all his life with epilepsy and yet refused to let it dominate his existence. Alan died suddenly from an epileptic attack on July and I have been struggling to come to terms with his loss ever since. it feels good to know that I have imortalised him in a song and I have now put together a video for the song which I plan to upload to 'Youtube' in early December. It would have been lovely to be able to spend a fortune on making a professional video for the song but I'm not ion the financial position to do that and so I have spent my time instead on selecting a set of beautiful, festive and often fun photos relating to the lyrics and to Christmas to tell the story instead. Amazingly, I got the idea for the video from the box of slippers I bought for Alan last Christmas that still sits upon the top of my Dad's wardrobe. Take a look at my first post here this year if you want to know why I still have those!

Anyway, I am very pleased with the video I have put together and think it is both poignant and festive. It did make me cry when I watched it back though (and my Mum!) so be warned - it might get to you as well! (lol) I do hope though that the positivity in the chorus and the defiant nature of the song will shine through for you all after the initial impact resides. Do let me know what you think when you see it - I want to remember my friends and tap into your hearts but I don't want to ruin your Christmas!

Oh well, under two calendar months to go to the big day now! Are you getting prepared yet? I have a few presents sorted out and done up but I'm a long way behind on my preparations this year due to having to sort out and sell off Alan's CD collection. Still, I'm getting 'stuck in' to that task so hopefully by mid November I will be able to concentrate on Christmas full time...

Love to you all x