Living in peace and giving with charity is the enduring message of Christmas.
For those of us who came of age during the heyday of 70s rock, the distinctive, raspy voice of Chris Norman, the former frontman of the legendary band Smokie, is instantly recognizable—a sound steeped in nostalgia, promising a blend of rugged rock energy and tender balladry. When he stepped into his solo career, his star shone just as brightly, particularly in Europe, where hits like “Midnight Lady” cemented his place as a solo icon. It’s this same, warm, gravel-and-silk voice that graces the contemporary Christmas single, “That’s Christmas,” a track that appeared later in his extensive career, capturing the quiet, contemplative spirit of the holiday season.
The single “That’s Christmas” was officially released in late 2015, specifically on November 20th of that year, as a standalone single, though some sources link it to his 2015 album Crossover. Unlike his massive European chart-toppers from the 80s, this festive offering didn’t dominate the global pop charts. Its focus was more about seasonal rotation and connecting with his devoted international fanbase rather than securing a major chart position—though it did find its way onto various seasonal playlists and compilations, demonstrating its immediate resonance. It appeared as a digital single, emphasizing its role as a heartfelt, immediate holiday greeting to his listeners.
The story behind the song isn’t one of theatrical drama or last-minute studio panic; rather, it’s an earnest reflection on the true meaning of the season, a theme perfectly suited to the seasoned, introspective artist Chris Norman had become. The song’s essence lies in stripping away the commercial clamor and focusing on the core virtues that define Christmas for many: love, charity, and a longing for universal peace and harmony. Lyrically, it speaks directly to our shared human experience during the holidays—a recognition of the disparity between those living in comfort and those still “striving in poverty.” This isn’t just a cheerful jingle; it’s a mature, gentle call to action.
The meaning of “That’s Christmas” is explicitly laid out in its chorus, which repeats the powerful, simple declaration: “It’s all about love, love, love, love, love, love, love, that’s Christmas.” It advocates for an active, engaged sense of goodwill: “Givin’ some hope and charity to people we see, Keepin’ the faith in humanity, that’s Christmas.” For us, the older generation, who remember a time when holiday songs often carried a heavier, more profound weight of sentiment, this track serves as a lovely, grounded reminder. It’s a throwback to the days when music felt less manufactured and more genuinely from the heart. Norman’s familiar, slightly melancholic vocal tone lends a gravitas that makes the message feel less like a saccharine platitude and more like wisdom earned over a lifetime. It evokes those cozy, reflective moments by the fire, where the most meaningful gifts aren’t wrapped in paper but found in the company and compassion we share with one another. It’s the sound of a musician who understands that after all the years, the simple truths still shine the brightest.