Why Is Slade's Singer Avoiding Restaurants This Christmas?

As the holiday season approaches, Noddy Holder, the iconic frontman of Slade, shares an unusual reason for avoiding restaurants on Christmas Day. His wife, Suzan Holder, revealed that the couple finds it uncomfortable to dine out due to the frequent play of their classic festive song, "Merry Xmas Everybody." Released in December 1973, this track has become synonymous with Christmas in the UK, often dominating festive playlists and re-entering the UK singles chart as the holidays draw near.

Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Noddy Holder's unique relationship with his own festive anthem has led to a rather interesting Christmas tradition. According to Suzan Holder, the couple feels a sense of awkwardness when dining out during the holidays, as they anticipate the moment when "Merry Xmas Everybody" plays in the background. Suzan recounted that when the song plays, “every single person in the restaurant will turn and look,” making their dining experience a little too public for comfort. This reflects not just the song's popularity, but also the way it has embedded itself into British Christmas culture.

Key takeaways

Noddy Holder avoids restaurants on Christmas Day due to the frequent play of his hit song.
"Merry Xmas Everybody" has been a Christmas staple since its release in 1973.
Holder's wife, Suzan, shares insights into their festive traditions and his culinary skills.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of "Merry Xmas Everybody" and Noddy Holder's life is intertwined with the festive season:

December 1973: "Merry Xmas Everybody" is released, quickly becoming a holiday classic.
1992: Noddy Holder steps down from fronting Slade after 26 years.
2018: Holder is diagnosed with oesophageal cancer but receives successful treatment.
2022: Following his recovery, Holder begins performing again with a jazz band.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent comments from Suzan Holder shed light on their Christmas traditions, including the humorous yet awkward aspect of dining out during the holiday season. The couple's decision to stay home underscores the song's overwhelming presence during Christmas gatherings.

What was already established

It is well-known that "Merry Xmas Everybody" has been a beloved part of Christmas in the UK for decades. The song's enduring popularity means it frequently appears on radio stations and in public spaces, especially during the Christmas period.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The festive season in the UK is marked by traditions such as listening to classic Christmas songs. For many, "Merry Xmas Everybody" signifies the start of the holiday celebrations, influencing household activities, shopping habits, and even restaurant bookings.

Businesses and jobs

For the entertainment and hospitality industries, the Christmas season is crucial. Restaurants, pubs, and event planners anticipate an influx of customers who enjoy festive meals and live music. However, the presence of such iconic songs can create unique challenges for performers and their families.

Policy and regulation

The music industry continues to navigate the complexities of copyright and royalties, particularly around festive hits that generate significant revenue during the holiday season. As classic songs like "Merry Xmas Everybody" remain popular, discussions about artists’ rights and compensation will likely continue.

Numbers that matter

50+: The number of times "Merry Xmas Everybody" is expected to enter the UK singles chart each December.
1973: The year "Merry Xmas Everybody" was first released.
26: The number of years Noddy Holder fronted Slade before stepping down in 1992.
6 months: The initial prognosis for Holder's life after his cancer diagnosis in 2018, which he surpassed after successful treatment.
79: Noddy Holder's current age as of 2023, demonstrating his enduring presence in the music industry.

Definitions and jargon buster

Merry Xmas Everybody: A hit Christmas song by Slade, released in 1973, known for its festive spirit and sing-along chorus.
Oesophageal cancer: A type of cancer affecting the oesophagus, the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
Boogie jazz band: A musical group that performs jazz music with a lively and upbeat style, often incorporating improvisation.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As Christmas approaches, expect increased airplay of "Merry Xmas Everybody." For those planning festive outings, consider the song's likelihood of being played and how it may affect your experience.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the holiday season, the music charts will reflect the impact of the festive songs, including the performance of "Merry Xmas Everybody." It remains a staple that will continue to be celebrated during future Christmases.

Signals to watch

Radio playlists: Monitor which songs dominate holiday playlists.
Chart positions: Track "Merry Xmas Everybody" and its re-entries into the UK singles chart.
Public responses: Observe how listeners react to festive songs in public spaces.

Practical guidance

Do

Enjoy festive music in the comfort of your home if you're not keen on public outings.
Consider supporting local restaurants that may offer unique festive menus.
Participate in holiday traditions that resonate with you and your family.

Don’t

Don’t feel pressured to dine out if it makes you uncomfortable.
Don’t overlook the importance of personal traditions that bring joy during the holidays.
Don’t assume everyone shares the same enthusiasm for iconic Christmas songs.

Checklist

Plan your Christmas meals ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress.
Decide on your preferred Christmas music setting—home or out.
Engage in festive activities that suit your comfort level and preferences.
Be prepared for iconic songs and have a light-hearted approach to unexpected moments.
Enjoy the holiday season with family and friends, regardless of the setting.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While "Merry Xmas Everybody" is a beloved classic, its overwhelming presence can lead to mixed feelings among listeners, particularly those closely associated with the song. Additionally, as the music industry evolves, the dynamics of how such songs are enjoyed may change, potentially impacting future Christmas traditions.

Bottom line

Noddy Holder's relationship with "Merry Xmas Everybody" illustrates the complexities of personal fame intertwined with public celebrations. As the holiday season approaches, those who cherish this festive classic must navigate the balance between nostalgia and the realities of its popularity. Embracing personal traditions while acknowledging the cultural significance of such songs can lead to a fulfilling festive experience.

FAQs

Why does Noddy Holder avoid restaurants on Christmas Day?

Noddy Holder avoids restaurants on Christmas Day because he finds it awkward when "Merry Xmas Everybody" plays, drawing attention to him and his wife.

What is the significance of "Merry Xmas Everybody"?

"Merry Xmas Everybody" is a Christmas classic released in 1973 by Slade, becoming a staple in festive playlists and contributing to the holiday spirit in the UK.

How has Noddy Holder's health impacted his career?

After being diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 2018, Noddy Holder made a remarkable recovery and returned to performing, showcasing his resilience and passion for music.