Few artists can boast having delivered a modern Christmas classic. With all the traditional favorites still hanging around, it’s hard for newly released tracks to measure up. Nevertheless, Kelly Clarkson achieved that feat in 2013 with “Underneath the Tree.” This festive song has now become one of Clarkson’s calling cards. Uncover the meaning behind “Underneath the Tree,” below.
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Behind the Meaning of Kelly Clarkson’s “Underneath the Tree”
According to Clarkson, the process of making this record was freeing. “I always get asked about what genre I’m in – ‘Is this country or pop or rock, what are you,’” Clarkson once said. “And what’s cool about making a Christmas album was, “Oh! There are no limitations! We can do whatever we want!”
In the end, she went for a sweeping mix of pop with driving instrumentation. All in all, “Underneath the Tree” is a powerful show of Clarkson’s musicianship. She recorded the choral elements herself, flexing her vocal prowess.
But, what is hidden underneath all that mystifying vocal work? Well, a story about love, companionship, and of course, holiday cheer.
You’re here where you should be
Snow is falling as the carolers sing
It just wasn’t the same
Alone on Christmas day
[RELATED: 3 Kelly Clarkson Songs That Prove She’s a Vocalist for the Ages]
What more do we all want on Christmas than to be with our loved ones? The holidays are a time to draw near to those we hold dear–relatives, found families, friends, and if we’re lucky, a romantic interest. Clarkson is concerned with the latter in this track.
Clarkson is cozying up to someone while snow falls outside. It’s a picture perfect Christmas scene that brings in a swell of nostalgia and warmth.
There is only one thing on Clarkson’s Christmas list this year. Presents, what a beautiful sight / Don’t mean a thing if you ain’t holding me tight / You’re all that I need / Underneath the tree, she sings. Much like another modern Christmas classic, “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” Clarkson shuns the idea of material things. All she wants is her love by her side. Can you blame her?
Revisit “Underneath the Tree,” below.
I found (I found) what I was looking for
A love that’s meant for me
A heart that’s mine completely
Knocked me right off my feet
And this year I will fall
With no worries at all
(Photo by: Scott Gries/NBC via Getty Images)
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