Remember the song “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”? That catchy tune is the work of Brenda Lee, one of the most influential female music stars of the 1960s. Brenda’s journey to fame is an inspiring story, especially considering she took the world by storm at the tender age of 12.
Born in 1944 as Brenda May Tarpley, she began her career in the late 1940s. By the 1950s, Brenda had become a household name, with her chart-topping tracks making her the most successful female recording artist of the 1960s. Imagine being only 4 foot 9 and having a voice that could fill stadiums—that was Brenda, a petite powerhouse.
At just eight years old, tragedy struck when her father, a construction worker, was killed in an accident. Brenda, who then took the surname Lee, became the primary breadwinner for her family. Her sense of duty was strong, and she was eager to support her mother, a cotton mill worker, and her siblings. Reflecting on her early earnings, she said, “Even at that young age, I saw that helped our life. It put some food on the table. It helped, and I loved it.”
Brenda’s powerful voice and engaging performances made her a pioneer of early rock and roll despite her youth. Her rise to stardom also had her featured on country music shows like Red Foley’s Ozark Jubilee, further bolstering her career.
By the age of 12, she was already captivating audiences with her single “Jambalaya” and soon after signed with Decca Records. The music world was seeing a blend of country and rhythm and blues, highlighted by Brenda’s unique vocal style.
Instead of nerves, performing in front of large crowds felt natural to young Brenda. She likened the stage to being at home because, from the age of three, she was accustomed to singing before people.
In 1957, Brenda got her famous nickname “Little Miss Dynamite” after releasing the potent track “Dynamite” and, a year later, the legendary holiday favorite “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” adding it to her growing list of hits.
Despite some songs focusing on themes of young love and heartbreak, Brenda experienced little of it firsthand. Her protective mother didn’t allow her to date, so tunes like “I’m Sorry” and “I Want to be Wanted” resonated with the public while Brenda navigated a world beyond her lived experiences.
At the age of 18, Brenda found love with Ronnie Shacklett, her husband of 60 years. While her career blossomed, spending time on the road as a youngster posed challenges. Her 12th birthday was celebrated in Las Vegas, and although she found joy performing, the lifestyle did come with its constraints and also introduced some notable friendships.
In 1962, while on tour in Germany, Brenda had the opportunity to befriend members of the opening act, including John Lennon. These connections were impactful, with luminaries like Elton John also expressing deep admiration for her talent.
As decades passed, Brenda maintained strong ties in the music industry. She and her husband credit their enduring relationship to a shared faith and mutual respect. Brenda’s reflections on her life and career often highlight the importance of these values, demonstrating how her personal life and professional success are intertwined.
Brenda’s role as a pioneer wasn’t just limited to music but extended to her cultural impact and faith-based initiatives, like the Sunday Mornin’ Country event, a staple that she continues to support.
As she steps back from the spotlight, her legacy firmly planted, Brenda Lee is celebrated not just for her music, but for her spirit and resilience. Her song “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” remains a Christmas staple. Even after its initial release 65 years ago, it climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2019.
Brenda Lee’s legacy is a tapestry of joyful music, untold resilience, and heartfelt connections. Her life’s work brings smiles to faces, every time we hear that timeless holiday song. What memories does Brenda Lee’s music bring back to you?
