Paul Simon, 'Getting Ready for Christmas Day' -- New Song

Posted on Nov 16th 2010 11:00AM by Cristin Maher
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Kevin Winter, Getty Images for AFI

For Paul Simon, this Christmas is more about spreading awareness than spreading cheer. The iconic singer-songwriter's newest track, 'Getting Ready for Christmas Day,' is deceptively happy upon first listen. However, upon further examination, Simon's real message in the song is directed toward the troops spending their holidays overseas fighting for our safety on the homefront.

Kicking off with plenty of noise, 'Getting Ready for Christmas Day' sounds like Simon recorded it in the midst of a Christmas party. The booming voice in the background is that of Rev. J.M. Gates, who was one of the most often-recorded black artists of the early 20th century. Like Simon, Gates was an activist during his time, speaking as the voice of the people on many social issues such as the Great Depression and war. The gospel singer and Christian preacher recorded the featured sample in 1941.

Simon's incongruously lighthearted musical stylings and perpetually soothing vocals on 'Getting Ready for Christmas Day' remind us at home that although Christmas is a cheery holiday, we need to remember to be thankful for the people that make living life in this country such a privilege.

The song will be featured on his upcoming album, 'So Beautiful or So What,' which is due in spring 2011. Check out the song below before it's released on Nov. 23 below.

Listen to 'Getting Ready for Christmas Day'