'I Wanted Christ and You Gave Me Santa Claus': Independent Christmas Song Released, Promises Big Charity

NEW YORK, Dec. 18, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- New York musician, Lee Stranger, has quietly self-released his debut single.  Arriving on the heels of a tumultuous few weeks filled with racial and political tensions, the curiously titled "I Wanted Christ and You Gave Me Santa Claus" aims to be the perfect antidote to these turbulent times in the run up to Christmas.  The single was dispatched to online music outlets in time for the holidays.  The artist has stated that 100% of all sales will go to a children's charity (Toys For Tots).  Furthermore, he will personally match every dollar up to $5,000.   

"I've always been really into pop standards and songs that have wedged themselves into the public consciousness," Stranger says, "And while I don't expect this song to do that exactly, I still wanted to put out something seasonal that would grab people by their holiday spirit and not let go."

Not to be mistaken for a novelty record, "I Wanted Christ and You Gave Me Santa Claus" is wholly unique with its lo-fi charm, its seamless pastiche of styles and its jovial climax.  But what is with that title?  Lee Stranger explains: "There's a literary influence involved here, but not in the traditional sense.  It's more interactive than that.  Let's just say a 'ghost of Christmas past' commissioned this song and leave it at that.  Actually, I'll be really impressed if anyone figures it out."

As the sole architect of what is perhaps the most bizarre, yet accessible Christmas song since the Chipmunks begged for a hula-hoop, Mr. Stranger obviously has a penchant for irony, if nothing else.  That said, doesn't the proposed Toys for Tots donation seem a bit contradictory given the song's rather blunt message?

"There are  millions of kids out there who feel like they don't have Christ or Santa Claus - every child deserves both, so I'd like to at least give 'em the fat man." 

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SOURCE America's Registry