Nuttin' For Christmas

Christmas Song Lyrics

I broke my bat on Johnny's head;
Somebody snitched on me.
I hid a frog in sister's bed;
Somebody snitched on me.
I spilled some ink on Mommy's rug;
I made Tommy eat a bug;
Bought some gum with a penny slug;
Somebody snitched on me.

Oh, I'm gettin' nuttin' for Christmas
Mommy and Daddy are mad.
I'm getting nuttin' for Christmas
'Cause I ain't been nuttin' but bad.

I put a tack on teacher's chair
Somebody snitched on me.
I tied a knot in Susie's hair
Somebody snitched on me.
I did a dance on Mommy's plants
Climbed a tree and tore my pants
Filled the sugar bowl with ants
Somebody snitched on me.

So, I'm gettin' nuttin' for Christmas
Mommy and Daddy are mad.
I'm gettin' nuttin' for Christmas
'Cause I ain't been nuttin' but bad.

I won't be seeing Santa Claus;
Somebody snitched on me.
He won't come visit me because
Somebody snitched on me.
Next year I'll be going straight;
Next year I'll be good, just wait
I'd start now, but it's too late;
Somebody snitched on me.

So you better be good whatever you do
'Cause if you're bad, I'm warning you,
You'll get nuttin' for Christmas.

 
By Roy Bennett and Sid Tepper - © 1955

About This Humorous Christmas Song

Nuttin' for Christmas is a mischievous novelty tune from 1955 that captures the playful side of the holiday season. Written by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett, the song tells the story of a child who has been far from well behaved throughout the year and expects a rather empty stocking as a result. Its humorous confession style structure struck a chord with listeners who remembered their own childhood misadventures.

The most famous recording came from young Barry Gordon, who was only seven years old at the time (listen below). His earnest, slightly impish delivery helped turn the song into a nationwide hit. Adults found it funny. Kids found it relatable. The song's lyrics list a string of comical offenses, each more over the top than the last. This blend of innocent storytelling and lighthearted humor helped the tune stand out during a decade full of more traditional Christmas fare.

Nuttin' for Christmas quickly became a seasonal favorite and has been covered countless times since then. From big band arrangements to cartoon appearances, the song pops up in holiday specials and novelty playlists every year. Musically, its upbeat tempo and jaunty swing make it easy for groups of all ages to hum along.

Even though the theme is naughty behavior, the song itself feels cheerful and harmless. It's a reminder that a little mischief is part of growing up and that Christmas joy has room for humor as well as sentiment. Its playful tone keeps it fresh, fun, and perfect for lightening the mood during busy December days.

Performance Video featuring Barry Gordon

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