A Chill, Dreamy Christmas: Hunter Hayes Reimagines Classics on Evergreen Christmas Sessions EP
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Five-time GRAMMY® nominated, multi-instrumentalist, and PLATINUM-selling artist Hunter Hayes is embracing the holiday season with his new EP, Evergreen Christmas Sessions. The project, which Hayes recently teased to fans on his Official Hunter Hayes App, is a heartfelt and musically expansive reimagining of four beloved Christmas standards, blending his signature genre-bending musicianship with a “calm Christmas” atmosphere.
Hayes noted that creating the EP felt like a “full circle” moment, allowing him to revisit holiday music he first recorded as a child. Taking advantage of a few days off during his tour, the EP marks the first time Hayes recorded a project with his touring band, giving the music a cohesive, collaborative feel.
“We wanted to try something different, so we gave the project a ‘calm Christmas’ vibe with a chill, dreamy, jazz-inspired take on the season,” Hayes shared. “For me, Christmas music has always been about spending time with the people you love, and I hope this project becomes part of those moments.”
The resulting collection is both classic and distinctly Hunter Hayes, featuring rich instrumentation, soulful vocals, and a celebration of togetherness and joy.
Track-by-Track Review: Evergreen Christmas Sessions
1. Winter Wonderland
Hayes kicks off the EP with an upbeat track, but instead of the usual sleigh-bell frenzy, his take is infused with an upbeat sparkle and that promised “chill, dreamy, jazz-inspired” sound. This version likely employs nimble guitar work and sophisticated chord changes, transforming the familiar tune into a lighthearted but musically complex opener. The arrangement keeps the festive energy high while maintaining a relaxed, cool-jazz atmosphere, making it perfect for both holiday dancing and quiet background listening.
2. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
This track represents the timeless comfort promised by the collection. Often performed as a melancholy ballad, Hayes’ version, guided by the “calm Christmas” vibe, likely leans into gentle warmth. His soulful vocals take center stage, conveying the sincere hope and sentimentality of the lyrics. The instrumentation—perhaps featuring soft piano (keys) and muted brass or delicate acoustic guitar—creates a rich, intimate atmosphere designed to evoke quiet reflection and cherished memories shared with loved ones.
3. Run Run Rudolph
Offering the EP’s moment of highest energy, “Run Run Rudolph” brings an electrifying energy. However, given the EP’s overall jazz influence, this won’t be a typical rock and roll cover. Instead, Hayes is likely to deliver a jazzy-funk or swing-infused performance, giving the rock classic a dynamic edge. His multi-instrumental skills would shine here, perhaps featuring a fast-paced guitar solo or intricate, driving percussion from the band, proving that a “calm” vibe doesn’t preclude high-octane musicianship.
4. Silent Night
Hayes closes the Evergreen Christmas Sessions with the ultimate holiday classic, “Silent Night.” This is where the EP reaches its peak of reverence and gentle warmth. Stripped down and emotive, the track serves as a showcase for Hayes’ vocal purity and sincere delivery. The arrangement is likely sparse—acoustic guitar, soft pads, and maybe a touch of ambient texture—to underscore the stillness and deep spirituality of the song. It provides a peaceful, reflective close to the project, perfectly embodying the intimate, heartfelt moments of the holiday season.
⭐ About Hunter Hayes
Hunter Hayes is a musical powerhouse whose career is defined by immense talent, versatility, and collaborative spirit. As a 5x GRAMMY® nominated, multi-instrumentalist, and PLATINUM-selling artist, Hayes has consistently pushed the boundaries of the country genre, blending elements of pop, rock, and blues into his work.
Known for his heartfelt storytelling and astonishing instrumental skill—he is proficient on dozens of instruments—Hayes has built a loyal following through both his chart success and his dynamic live performances. His recent activities include a collaboration with the a cappella group Straight No Chaser on their new holiday single, “Christmas Is Different,” where he also surprised fans by joining their performance at the Ryman Auditorium.
The Evergreen Christmas Sessions EP is a testament to Hayes’s continuous evolution, offering a mature, musically rich perspective on holiday music that remains true to his core philosophy: celebrating togetherness and the joy of creating music with the people you love.