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Olivia Rodrigo’s Christmas song sounds familiar… on purpose
Olivia Rodrigo has released her first Christmas song, “Take Me Home (4 Christmas)”, with a video featuring Cynthia Nixon. The track deliberately echoes The Waitresses’ 1981 hit “Christmas Wrapping”: Rodrigo contacted its songwriter, Chris Butler, for permission, and he praised her song after hearing it.
Rodrigo wrote the song last summer with longtime collaborator Dan Nigro and songwriter Amy Allen. Butler receives no writing credit because the track does not sample or interpolate his music. Its release coincides with other Christmas releases and covers, as new contenders face the annual challenge of competing with “Last Christmas” and “All I Want For Christmas Is You”.
In short
- Olivia Rodrigo’s first Christmas song deliberately recalls “Christmas Wrapping”.
- She sought permission from The Waitresses’ songwriter Chris Butler.
- The track joins a crowded race against enduring festive hits.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A deliberate echo can be a respectful way to join a musical tradition: Rodrigo sought Chris Butler’s permission, and his praise suggests the nod was welcomed. The new song stands on its own rather than sampling or interpolating his work, while giving listeners a fresh seasonal release.
The case against
Even with permission and a warm response, a song that deliberately recalls a famous hit may invite questions about how much creative distinctiveness it offers. Some listeners may also find that a high-profile new release draws attention from the older song and other Christmas music, a concern that can arise even without any dispute over credit.