Scott Weiland: Christmas Album Is a Way to Keep the Holidays Special for My Kids

Two-time Grammy winner Scott Weiland loves the holidays, so much so that he just released 'The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,' an album of Christmas classics and an original holiday song, 'Happy Christmas and Many More.'

The seeds for the album were planted two years ago when Weiland first performed 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' on 'The Tonight Show With Jay Leno.' Inspired by Frank Sinatra's legendary 1957 recording of the song, Weiland took things to the next logical step, which was a full album. In addition to traditional renditions holiday favorites, the Stone Temple Pilots singer also includes a reggae version of 'O Holy Night' along with several other surprises.

In a recent conversation with Spinner, Weiland got into the holiday spirit while talking about the album's origin, how it affects his family and his surprising choice for favorite Christmas tune.

This album will be a surprise to many ears.

[Laughing] I know! To my kids, included. But what can I say? There are things as an artist that just become so inspiring that you have to answer the call. For years I've wanted to do this, in this way, and I'm totally proud of the results. I hope people are surprised, but that they understand how important this was to me.

Stream Scott Weiland's 'Most Wonderful Time of the Year' Album

Have your kids heard it yet?

Just little pieces of it. It's hard being divorced, especially during the holidays, but my ex and I find a way to make it work and keep the holidays special for our two kids. But they'll be hearing the whole thing soon when I see them.

Is there one holiday song that stands above the rest for you?

I'd have to say 'The Christmas Song,' by Mel Torme. He co-wrote the song, so I think he had a special feel for it. But there is something about his voice that resonates with me in a way no other does. His nickname was "The Velvet Fog." When you hear his tone and texture, you realize what a perfect nickname that was.

You add some new touches to some of the songs, like the reggae approach to 'O Holy Night.'

I wanted to at least try a few new things because people are so familiar with many of these songs already. As an artist I feel you have to do that. But I didn't want to do to too much. I mean, these songs are pretty well-built already.

Any idea where an album like this might lead you in the future? Towards some other standards, perhaps?

You never know. I keep an open artistic mind. But I will tell you, this was an amazing experience for me. This era of songwriting is something I loved when I was growing up, and I would love to explore some more of these in the future. They just pull you in. they are so emotional and real.

What about holiday TV classics? Do you have a favorite?

Definitely, 'Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town.'

What is it about that one?

Well, great story and characters. But it's the Winter Warlock that still gets me. When they give him the toy choo-choo train and his heart melts, it's so beautiful and makes such a statement about the human condition, how he changes his ways. That made a huge impression on me.