Kate Bush, a pioneering force in music, has long been celebrated for her boundary-pushing artistry, combining theatricality, poetic lyricism, and experimental soundscapes. Emerging in the late 1970s with her groundbreaking hit “Wuthering Heights,“ Bush quickly established herself as an artist unafraid to challenge conventions, crafting a body of work that blends genres and defies categorization. Among her many intriguing creations lies a hidden gem in her discography: the enchanting Christmas song, “December Will Be Magic Again.”

Background of the Song

“December Will Be Magic Again” was released as a standalone single in November 1980, during a pivotal period in Kate Bush’s career. Having already solidified her reputation as a visionary artist with three successful studio albums (The Kick Inside, Lionheart, and Never for Ever), Bush was exploring new creative directions. The song arrived as a festive offering to her growing fanbase, showcasing her ability to weave seasonal charm into her distinctive sound.

While the track wasn’t tied to a specific album, it reflected her flair for theatrical storytelling and vivid imagery. Its origins were likely influenced by Bush’s deep appreciation for nostalgia and fantasy, themes that permeate much of her work. The lyrics reference classic holiday traditions and figures like Bing Crosby, suggesting an homage to the golden age of Christmas music. Bush’s jazzy, playful arrangement nods to the genre’s rich history while remaining unmistakably her own.

Musical Composition

“December Will Be Magic Again” showcases Kate Bush’s signature knack for blending unconventional musical elements into a cohesive and enchanting sound. The song’s instrumentation is lush and dynamic, opening with a twinkling piano melody that evokes the warmth and wonder of the holiday season. Layered with orchestral flourishes, jazzy rhythms, and playful percussion, the arrangement feels both whimsical and sophisticated, capturing the festive spirit in a way that’s uniquely Kate Bush.

Bush’s ethereal vocals are the centerpiece, effortlessly shifting between soft, intimate tones and soaring, exuberant heights. Her voice dances around the melody with an almost childlike sense of joy, yet retains the depth and artistry that define her music. Notably, the song incorporates an unconventional rhythm, with a swing-like quality that gives it a lively, jazzy feel—setting it apart from the solemn ballads or cheerful jingles typical of Christmas music.

Key features that make the song stand out include the vivid use of dynamics and Bush’s intricate vocal phrasing, which imbue the track with an air of theatricality. The production captures a sense of wonder, as if inviting listeners to step into a holiday dreamscape, making it a standout among seasonal offerings.

Cultural Impact

Upon its release in November 1980, “December Will Be Magic Again” was met with a warm, albeit modest, reception. While it did not achieve the commercial heights of other holiday staples, the song was appreciated by fans and critics for its originality and Kate Bush’s unmistakable artistry. Its whimsical charm stood apart from the predictable fare of Christmas music, making it a cult favorite among her loyal following.

The song was notably performed during Bush’s appearance on the 1979 BBC television special, Kate, where she delivered an enchanting rendition that highlighted her theatrical flair. In this performance, Bush’s expressive movements and ethereal stage presence brought the festive imagery of the song to life, solidifying it as a visual and auditory holiday treat. This version is often remembered as one of the definitive interpretations of the track.

Why It’s Unique Among Christmas Songs

“December Will Be Magic Again” stands out among Christmas songs for its ability to capture the holiday spirit without relying on the standard tropes of the genre. While many festive tracks lean heavily on predictable jingles, choral refrains, and overt cheer, Kate Bush takes a more nuanced and artistic approach, blending her signature ethereal style with an imaginative celebration of the season.

The song’s tone is whimsical and dreamlike rather than overtly celebratory. Bush paints vivid, poetic images—snowflakes falling, reindeer riding across her room—that evoke a sense of wonder and magic unique to her perspective. Her jazzy arrangement and unconventional rhythms diverge from the traditional march of sleigh bells and carols, offering a fresh sonic palette that feels more like an intimate, theatrical performance than a festive sing-along.

Rather than focusing solely on overt joy, Bush’s lyrics embrace the reflective and nostalgic aspects of the season. References to Bing Crosby and the golden age of Christmas music ground the song in tradition, but she reimagines these elements through her singular lens, avoiding cliché. Her use of metaphors, such as falling snow symbolizing beauty and transience, adds a layer of depth that transforms the song into an evocative piece of storytelling.

Closing Thoughts

“December Will Be Magic Again” is a testament to Kate Bush’s unparalleled ability to transform even the most familiar themes into something extraordinary. With its imaginative lyrics, jazzy rhythms, and ethereal charm, the song transcends the conventions of traditional Christmas music, offering a fresh perspective on the holiday season. It captures the magic, nostalgia, and wonder of Christmas without relying on predictable tropes, making it a standout track that feels timeless and uniquely personal.

Despite its relative obscurity compared to other holiday staples, the song’s artistry and originality make it deserving of a place in every festive playlist. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kate Bush or discovering her work for the first time, “December Will Be Magic Again” is a delightful and enchanting piece that embodies the spirit of the season in a way only she could. This year, let its magic weave into your holiday celebrations—you may just find a new favorite Christmas classic.