About the song
“Run Rudolph Run,” originally written by Chuck Berry but credited to Johnny Marks and M. Brodie due to trademark issues surrounding Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, is a beloved Christmas classic that encapsulates the festive spirit with a rock-and-roll twist. First recorded by Chuck Berry in 1958 and released as a single on Chess Records, the song quickly became a holiday favorite.
Musically, “Run Rudolph Run” is structured as a 12-bar blues, echoing the style of Berry’s other iconic hits like “Johnny B. Goode” and “Little Queenie.” Its upbeat tempo and energetic guitar riffs, typical of Berry’s rock-and-roll prowess, resonate with listeners and capture the excitement of the holiday season.
The history of the song is as intriguing as its melody. Chuck Berry initially claimed full authorship of the song but soon encountered legal challenges when he learned that the name “Rudolph” was trademarked by Johnny Marks, who was associated with the popular Christmas character from his song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Marks subsequently sued, resulting in Berry sharing songwriting credits with Marks and the mysterious “M. Brodie,” a pseudonym allegedly created to increase revenue for Marks and his publisher.
Despite the legal complexities, “Run Rudolph Run” has endured over the decades through numerous cover versions and adaptations by various artists. Some renditions of the song are titled “Run Run Rudolph,” maintaining the lively spirit and festive lyrics that celebrate Santa Claus and the popular toys of the 1950s, reflecting the era’s cultural backdrop.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its infectious melody and Berry’s enduring influence on rock music. With its inclusion in countless Christmas playlists and its role in spreading holiday cheer, “Run Rudolph Run” remains a timeless anthem that continues to delight listeners of all ages during the festive season.
Video
Lyrics
Out of all the reindeers you know you are the mastermind
Run, run Rudolph, Randolph ain’t too far behind
Run, run Rudolph, Santa’s gotta make it to town
Santa, make him hurry, tell him he can take the freeway down
Run, run Rudolph ’cause I’m reelin’ like a merry-go-round
Said Santa to a boy child, “What have you been longin’ for?”
“All I want for Christmas is a rock ‘n’ roll ‘lectric guitar”
And then away went Rudolph whizzin’ like a shootin’ star
Run, run Rudolph, Santa’s has to make it in town
Santa, make him hurry, tell him he can take the freeway down
Run, run Rudolph, reelin’ like a merry-go-round
Run, run Rudolph, Santa’s gotta make it to town
Santa, make him hurry, tell him he can take the freeway down
Run, run Rudolph, I’m reelin’ like a merry-go-round
Said Santa to a girl child, “What would please you most to get?”
“A little baby doll that can cry, sleep, drink and wet”
And then away went Rudolph, whizzin’ like a Saber jet
Run, run Rudolph, Santa’s gotta make it to town
Santa, make him hurry, tell him he can take the freeway down
Run, run Rudolph I’m reelin’ like a merry-go-round