Printable version of thread
Click here to view this topic in its original format
BuzzJack Music Forum _ Robbie Williams and Take That _ RW Album. The Christmas Present (2019)
Posted by: Laura130262 26th April 2019, 11:29 PM
I saw a comment on Upfront that this is being recorded very shortly.
Don't know if it's a coincidence that he had a meeting with "an actor" this week . Hugh Jackman? 
Posted by: Sydney11 27th April 2019, 07:10 PM
Don't know if it's a coincidence that he had a meeting with "an actor" this week . Hugh Jackman?
Could be , I am not so sure about the Christmas album thing , will he tour it ...
Posted by: Laura130262 27th April 2019, 11:30 PM
Surely he couldn't sing Christmas songs on a summer tour?
Posted by: Sydney11 28th April 2019, 05:05 AM
Maybe he is working on another studio album at the same time for release next year & tour 2021
He makes no money out of the smaller shows, he has said that already in relation to the Vegas shows so any tour has to be mega
Posted by: elisabeth1974 28th April 2019, 06:07 AM
He indicated in some of the instagrams or chats I read about on FB that there will be more Las Vegas next year. I assume that they will pay him a lump sum as I imagine that he will draw people from the US and even more from Europe in who visit Las Vegas.
Then let us do a Rob concert either will be in the mind of many people I assume.
And still I think that he will do something TV related. I think there will be a CHristams show this year and something more next year. To afford his lifestyle he needs to earn lots of money. A House in Compton, one in London, one rented there, Malibu, BHills, at least 5 luxury vacations plus, an entourage, a lot of friends living (likely) on his costs when they visit etc.
Even with a fortune of 165 million pounds this is a lot, in these times one wrong money move can cost you a fortune. So he needs a steady income. For me that had been the x-factor. Dropping out of it means for me there is something better on the cards (as he was hardly in he cannot really say if this would have been a successful mission).
He had also said that he wants to publish the soundtrack of the David Walliams musical. But I do not see him to tour huge the next year.
There was a very interesting article in the Guardian some days ago about how music business has changed. Korean pop and a lot of styles take over. They mentioned that there are only very few sure banks : Taylor, Ed, Ariana not even Gaga and Beyoncé are anymore. And touring gets more difficult too as it is too expensive in the way it had been done. It will be interesting.
Posted by: Laura130262 28th April 2019, 11:20 PM
I think the trick is keeping your fanbase with you.
Once you have that, they will stay for life and you can carry on touring for as long as you enjoy it or your health allows you to.
There's always money to be made from touring if required.
Posted by: Sydney11 29th April 2019, 04:13 AM
Then let us do a Rob concert either will be in the mind of many people I assume.
And still I think that he will do something TV related. I think there will be a CHristams show this year and something more next year. To afford his lifestyle he needs to earn lots of money. A House in Compton, one in London, one rented there, Malibu, BHills, at least 5 luxury vacations plus, an entourage, a lot of friends living (likely) on his costs when they visit etc.
Even with a fortune of 165 million pounds this is a lot, in these times one wrong money move can cost you a fortune. So he needs a steady income. For me that had been the x-factor. Dropping out of it means for me there is something better on the cards (as he was hardly in he cannot really say if this would have been a successful mission).
He had also said that he wants to publish the soundtrack of the David Walliams musical. But I do not see him to tour huge the next year.
There was a very interesting article in the Guardian some days ago about how music business has changed. Korean pop and a lot of styles take over. They mentioned that there are only very few sure banks : Taylor, Ed, Ariana not even Gaga and Beyoncé are anymore. And touring gets more difficult too as it is too expensive in the way it had been done. It will be interesting.
That is why you will only get the big tours every so many years, they need a lot of planning to get them right so the artist makes some money out of it, no point in doing them otherwise ....
Posted by: Laura130262 7th May 2019, 11:04 PM
Posted by: Sydney11 8th May 2019, 07:13 PM
I think Guy is on BBC Radio 4 tonight ..
Posted by: Laura130262 22nd May 2019, 10:53 PM
He was going to the studio today to meet with Guy and make music.
Posted by: elisabeth1974 23rd May 2019, 03:28 AM
we get already excited when he does the norma :-)
Posted by: Better Man 24th May 2019, 09:44 PM
Rob mentioned in Insta today that it will not be 100% Xmas album.
It's gonna be mix with traditional pop songs and Xmas.
It's gonna be strange but beautiful album, 'it's the best for years'
Posted by: Laura130262 24th May 2019, 11:11 PM
It's gonna be mix with traditional pop songs and Xmas.
It's gonna be strange but beautiful album, 'it's the best for years'
I hope they're all original RW songs but it doesn't sound like it.
Posted by: Better Man 25th May 2019, 12:37 AM
Actually he still talks about original ones
Posted by: Sydney11 25th May 2019, 09:15 PM
Did Read he is doing a promo tour for the album , maybe he feels a mix will appeal to a wide audience , he says it's a bit weird so that will be interesting 
Posted by: Laura130262 25th May 2019, 11:19 PM
I remember he sang a bit of one a few months ago and it was really good. If the album is like that then it will be original.
I'm not so interested in covers. Michael Buble has cornered the market in that. 
Posted by: Laura130262 30th May 2019, 11:29 PM
He said the first single will be an original song.
Someone said will there be a Christmas special and he said "watch this space".
There won't be a tour which isn't surprising.
I'm really glad the single will be a Robbie song - if it were a cover - what a waste of a song.
I'm not really excited for this album.
I don't possess a single Christmas compilation - not even The Buble's.
I'd gladly wait another year to get a "proper" album.
I felt better about it when I though all the songs were RW original songs but now I know there are some covers in as well - I feel a bit 
Posted by: elisabeth1974 31st May 2019, 05:15 AM
so there will be no tour than next year, which makes it how many years since the last tour when he will tour again? Maybe 2022? 5 years. And what TV show is he referring to 18 months in the making? The Cjristmas show?
Posted by: Sydney11 31st May 2019, 08:39 PM
There will be some bit of a tour as he will be promoting the album , not a tour in the real sense of the word, or who knows, Robbie is always full of surprises
Remember Sensational , that was a new tracks that he released out of the blue & it was fab .. 
So I personally live in hope 
Posted by: Laura130262 31st May 2019, 11:24 PM
Well he only toured two years ago Elisabeth so not long really.
I'm not worried about the no tour. I think it's impossible to tour a Christmas album anyway. But - after the swing album being lots of covers and the last tour being lots of covers, I just think it's such a waste to put more in an 'original' album.
Posted by: elisabeth1974 1st June 2019, 06:42 AM
I think that he will do quite a long residency in Vegas next year. Flights are not that expensive anymore so who wants to see him....if he would tour less people would go to Vegas only for him and it will be more casual visitors and tourists then
Posted by: Laura130262 8th June 2019, 11:24 PM
OK I'm keeping the faith.
There's a live Insta been kept on Upfront that I've just watched.
He talked about the Christmas album.
He said it's "not just a vanilla album written especially for the Christmas market". There are some covers but also some "bangers"
And that it could have been written "just after Escapology".
Posted by: Sydney11 9th June 2019, 09:13 AM
That is great to hear Laura, I hope he does not release the singles too early, I like the element of surprise when it comes to an album
I wonder if he will do some sort of tour with it especially the fact that it is just not Xmas orientated .
Posted by: Laura130262 9th June 2019, 11:02 PM
I wonder if he will do some sort of tour with it especially the fact that it is just not Xmas orientated .
No tour - if what I've picked up on Upfront is a correct assumption.
I don't want a Buble type album - I want RW originality and it sounds like we're getting it. Also some kind of Christmas special - which is something he's really good at doing.
It's going to be a busy end of year for him.
Posted by: Sydney11 10th June 2019, 06:59 PM
I don't want a Buble type album - I want RW originality and it sounds like we're getting it. Also some kind of Christmas special - which is something he's really good at doing.
It's going to be a busy end of year for him.
That sounds good Laura ... I wonder what the story is with the tv show ....
Posted by: Laura130262 10th June 2019, 11:05 PM
Just someone said to him "you should do" .... and he said "watch this space".
Posted by: Sydney11 11th June 2019, 05:30 AM
You think so Laura
Posted by: Laura130262 11th June 2019, 11:03 PM
I reckon so - it would be ideal for one of the weekends leading up to Christmas- a TV special- guests/duets etc.
If they'll have him on of course. I think they will though.
Posted by: Sydney11 31st July 2019, 09:09 PM
Thanks to Seb on RWL for reporting news on the forthcomiing Christmas album https://www.robbiewilliamslive.com/rwl/1298-robbie-williams-la-tracklist-de-l-album-de-noel-en-grande-partie-devoilee
Robbie Williams: the tracklist of the Christmas album largely unveiled!
Christmas Lullaby (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
Happy Birthday Jesus Christ (Francis Flynn)
Home Thoughts From Abroad (Guy Chambers)
It's A Wonderful Life (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
Let's Not Go Shopping (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
Not Christmas (Francis Flynn / Tim Metcalfe)
One Last Christmas (Francis Flynn)
Snowflakes (Flynn Francis)
Yeah! It's Christmas (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
Posted by: Laura130262 31st July 2019, 10:51 PM
Robbie Williams: the tracklist of the Christmas album largely unveiled!
Christmas Lullaby (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
Happy Birthday Jesus Christ (Francis Flynn)
Home Thoughts From Abroad (Guy Chambers)
It's A Wonderful Life (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
Let's Not Go Shopping (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
Not Christmas (Francis Flynn / Tim Metcalfe)
One Last Christmas (Francis Flynn)
Snowflakes (Flynn Francis)
Yeah! It's Christmas (Kelvin Andrews / Daniel Spencer Mold)
If those are some of the songs - it seems odd that Guy is producing it if he's only got one song on there.
That aside - some intriguing song titles
Let's Not Go Shopping
Happy Birthday Jesus Christ
Posted by: Laura130262 31st July 2019, 10:53 PM
Posted by: Sydney11 1st August 2019, 06:00 AM
That aside - some intriguing song titles
Let's Not Go Shopping
Happy Birthday Jesus Christ
The Lord will be delighted with him, Ayda less so
Posted by: Laura130262 1st August 2019, 11:13 PM
You can tell his song titles a bloody mile off
Posted by: Sydney11 2nd August 2019, 06:09 AM
That aside - some intriguing song titles
Let's Not Go Shopping
Happy Birthday Jesus Christ
I always like the Andrews & Spencer twist .. they usually bring a bit of life to the party
Posted by: Laura130262 2nd August 2019, 10:57 PM
Hopefully with that many new songs there will only be a couple of covers on the album.
I don't want it to be his singing other people's songs.
Posted by: Sydney11 3rd August 2019, 08:10 AM
I don't want it to be his singing other people's songs.
I would hope for no covers Laura . I guess it depends on whether he launches it under the Farrell label, if someone else is financially backing it he might not have the full say in the matter
I wonder if he will tour it afterwards ..
Posted by: Laura130262 3rd August 2019, 11:15 PM
I wonder if he will tour it afterwards ..
I think he's was musing on whether to do some covers because he thought that's what people expected of a Christmas album.
But with song titles like Happy Birthday Jesus Christ
- it's obviously not going to be a "normal" album so he might as well forget the covers. I hope he does too. Personally I don't think there will be a tour but who knows.
Posted by: Better Man 7th October 2019, 12:06 PM
Double Xmas album is confirmed!!
https://www.officialcharts.com/chart-news/robbie-williams-to-release-his-first-christmas-album-later-in-2019__27455/
Posted by: Mateja 7th October 2019, 02:11 PM
Since he is releasing a double Christmas album, I think there is potential for a great mix of original Christmas songs and covers. Casual listeners prefer covers on Christmas albums, but every artist also wants a few new songs to have their own Christmas songs.
Posted by: Sydney11 7th October 2019, 09:37 PM
I hope so, I would love to hear some originals.
After listening to Under The Radar gig tonight it makes you realise what a prolific songwriter he is , really , really talented ..
Posted by: Laura130262 8th October 2019, 11:42 PM
Credit: Simon James
I was hoping for original tracks too but if it's a double album - at least there will be plenty of room for his originals.
He sang this tonight - it didn't make the album. Very pretty.
Posted by: TomHo 18th November 2019, 04:35 PM
Credit: Simon James
I was hoping for original tracks too but if it's a double album - at least there will be plenty of room for his originals.
He sang this tonight - it didn't make the album. Very pretty.
I absolutely adore California Christmas, I wish it had made the final cut
Posted by: Sydney11 19th November 2019, 06:18 AM
Robbie was in Manchester, was this just about Hits, I was hoping to hear some of the Xmas album
Posted by: Laura130262 29th November 2021, 12:38 AM
Shall we do a track by track on this starting December 1st and see how we feel about it another year on?
I haven't started listening to it again yet?
Posted by: Better Man 29th November 2021, 05:02 AM
Yes!
Posted by: Sydney11 29th November 2021, 06:40 AM
I haven't started listening to it again yet?
Yes please Laura
Posted by: Laura130262 30th November 2021, 12:44 AM
I just had a look - very considerately there are 25 songs without the bonus tracks 
or maybe that's deliberate - who knows? I wouldn't be surprised.
I'll start tomorrow night
Posted by: Laura130262 30th November 2021, 11:55 PM
Track 1 - Winter Wonderland
If I'm honest I think all the covers on this album weren't needed in the slightest.
But they're here -and he does a lovely job
Posted by: Laura130262 30th November 2021, 11:57 PM
Posted by: Laura130262 1st December 2021, 12:00 AM
As always - it comes alive when he sings it live
Posted by: Sydney11 1st December 2021, 07:05 AM
As always - it comes alive when he sings it live
I love that song, he does it beautifully and looks super fit in that suit . He really had fun on the show that night if I remember correctly . He gives all to the audience , so he does
Posted by: Laura130262 2nd December 2021, 12:00 AM
Track 2 -another cover -Slade's Merry Xmas everybody
I like the arrangement of this - great brass section behind them
Posted by: Laura130262 2nd December 2021, 12:02 AM
Posted by: Laura130262 2nd December 2021, 12:06 AM
and live
have to say -their voices sound amazing live
Posted by: Sydney11 2nd December 2021, 08:05 AM
and live
have to say -their voices sound amazing live
Loving this performance,
Posted by: Sydney11 2nd December 2021, 12:31 PM
Posted by: Laura130262 3rd December 2021, 12:33 AM
Track 3 - Let it Snow
I am struggling a bit here because I always fast forward over these first few covers to get to the original songs
I feel like I've opened a box of chocolates and am having to sit and wait for my favourite
Posted by: Laura130262 3rd December 2021, 12:36 AM
Posted by: WhoOdyssey 3rd December 2021, 01:43 AM
Could the title thread be changed to something like ‘Robbie Williams - The Christmas Present’ as to not confuse it with Gary’s album
Posted by: Sydney11 3rd December 2021, 07:16 AM
All done
Posted by: Sydney11 3rd December 2021, 10:38 AM
Now, here's loads of snow
Posted by: Laura130262 4th December 2021, 01:08 AM
Let's get the fourth cover out the way
Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire
His voice sounds gorgeous on this
Posted by: Laura130262 4th December 2021, 01:10 AM
Bless him - "he's Nat King Cole and I'm me"
Posted by: Sydney11 4th December 2021, 07:16 AM
I love his honesty , he had to do it on his own , nice job though, love the orchestra 
Posted by: Laura130262 5th December 2021, 12:45 AM
Now we're talking -at last an original
I love Coco's Christmas Lullaby -gorgeous song written with the boys from Stoke -On-Trent - feels very tender and loving- love the early 1960's vibe to it
Guy Chambers daughter sings the last line I believe?
Posted by: Laura130262 5th December 2021, 12:48 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 5th December 2021, 08:05 AM
Cute little song
Posted by: Laura130262 5th December 2021, 08:43 PM
Rudolph - one of my favourites - should have been a single
Great lyrics
Posted by: Laura130262 5th December 2021, 08:47 PM
Posted by: Sydney11 6th December 2021, 01:41 PM
Aw !!, I just love this song. I think it would be perfect for a TV ad at Christmas
Posted by: Laura130262 7th December 2021, 12:30 AM
Probably my favourite off the album.
I love the cynicism at the start - "with neighbours Bob and Betty here, the folks you see but once a year, eating all my food, drinking all my beer"
and then the acceptance at the end that there is something magical about Christmas "all is calm, all is good"
Brilliant!
Posted by: Laura130262 7th December 2021, 12:33 AM
"A curmudgeon Christmas"
Posted by: Sydney11 7th December 2021, 07:01 AM
Yeah! It's Christmas
Robbie Williams
There's twinkle lights and coloured balls
And holy bells to deck the halls
But the turkey's burnt, and those arguments...
Oh it's Christmas
With neighbours Bob and Betty here
The folks you see but once a year
Eatin' all my food, drinkin' all my beer
Yeah it's Christmas
The red-suited, bearded, fat man's on his way
But all I get is socks and bills to pay
'Cause we're celebratin' Christmas
In paper hats and in a heap
The cracker kings are sound asleep
And the TV's on but it's on repeat
Yeah it's Christmas
The red-cheeked, jolly, fat guy's on his sleigh
Oh we're in debt but there's a year to pay
'Til we're celebratin' Christmas
A hush falls on the neighbourhood
Kinda like we knew it would
All is calm, all is good
Yeah it's Christmas
Source Musicmatch
Posted by: Sydney11 7th December 2021, 07:02 AM
"The red-cheeked, jolly, fat guy's on his sleigh
Oh we're in debt but there's a year to pay ( How true that is )
'Til we're celebratin' Christmas"
Posted by: Laura130262 7th December 2021, 11:19 PM
Love this one too - you would never know this isn't an old song - love it
"Who's the Christmas number one - it's me "
Posted by: Laura130262 7th December 2021, 11:22 PM
Hugh Jackman - praise indeed
Posted by: Sydney11 8th December 2021, 02:34 PM
I like that once actually , really nice original , well done Robs
Posted by: Laura130262 8th December 2021, 11:47 PM
Next track - Let's not go Shopping
First date I went on with my husband - he said this to me - and it has remained that way for over 30 years
Posted by: Laura130262 8th December 2021, 11:51 PM
Posted by: Sydney11 9th December 2021, 06:58 AM
Do you think Robbie just hates spending the money more than anything
Ayda makes up for it I think 
Posted by: Laura130262 10th December 2021, 12:38 AM
Fairly sure she does :-)
Posted by: Laura130262 10th December 2021, 12:40 AM
Lots of chemistry going on here
Posted by: Laura130262 10th December 2021, 12:41 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 10th December 2021, 07:11 AM
Lots of chemistry going on here
Santa Baby has that real Christmas feeling to it
:wub:Did you see the cute dgg with the black & white face split down the centre
Posted by: Sydney11 10th December 2021, 07:12 AM
I like people with no sticky out bits either
Posted by: Laura130262 10th December 2021, 11:51 PM
The Best Christmas Ever
I like this one - I like the optimism of the lyrics and his love for his wife and children
Written with Guy
Posted by: Laura130262 10th December 2021, 11:53 PM
"A beautiful song that only Guy and I could write"
Still the best combination
Posted by: Sydney11 11th December 2021, 06:01 PM
The Best Christmas Ever
I like this one - I like the optimism of the lyrics and his love for his wife and children
Written with Guy
It's such a gorgeous song, very personal but relatable
Posted by: Laura130262 11th December 2021, 11:24 PM
One Last Christmas -hmm not keen on this one
Posted by: Laura130262 11th December 2021, 11:25 PM
Posted by: Laura130262 11th December 2021, 11:26 PM
Ooh he said "Laura"
Posted by: Sydney11 12th December 2021, 11:57 AM
He decided to do the 'deep ' thing in that one
Posted by: Sydney11 12th December 2021, 11:57 AM
I know
Posted by: Laura130262 12th December 2021, 11:25 PM
Pretty little reprise.
December 2019 "Next year I have a feeling -that if we keep strong and keep on keeping on - we're all going to be OK"
If we only knew
Posted by: Sydney11 13th December 2021, 07:17 AM
Pretty little reprise.
December 2019 "Next year I have a feeling -that if we keep strong and keep on keeping on - we're all going to be OK"
If we only knew
I know, it's being tough but we will get there , whatever that is
Posted by: Laura130262 13th December 2021, 11:44 PM
With perfect timing - here is RW as Boris.
This is one of my favourite Robbie videos ever -brilliant lyrics
Posted by: Laura130262 13th December 2021, 11:49 PM
Posted by: Laura130262 13th December 2021, 11:53 PM
I love that performance - I've not seen it before.
Posted by: Sydney11 14th December 2021, 06:32 PM
With perfect timing - here is RW as Boris.
This is one of my favourite Robbie videos ever -brilliant lyrics
I reckon a lot of people did not know that was Robbie
Posted by: frogec 14th December 2021, 06:39 PM
This year I am listening to 'Can't stop Christmas' on repeat. I made a total turnaround from not liking the song last year when it came out to really liking it now.
For a 'time capsule' song, as Robbie called it, it did great job in my book. I hope it gets some more airplay this year and prepares some foundations for the new album next year.
Posted by: Laura130262 15th December 2021, 12:15 AM
Next track is the single Time for Change. Out Christmas 2019.
Good enough single but IMO not a patch on Can't Stop Christmas
Posted by: Laura130262 15th December 2021, 12:16 AM
This is nice from Poland
"Think about love, forget about loss"
Posted by: Laura130262 15th December 2021, 12:37 AM
The first time I watched it -I didn't realise.
It was only when I saw the credits at the end.
Clever little thing he is
Posted by: Sydney11 15th December 2021, 01:07 PM
It was only when I saw the credits at the end.
Clever little thing he is
I had no idea either , I thought he looked more like Elton John
Posted by: Laura130262 16th December 2021, 12:35 AM
Like the lyrics to this
Posted by: Sydney11 16th December 2021, 07:13 AM
IDLEWILD
Da-da-da...
Da-da-da...
Where we met on Christmas Eve
She's an aristo, I'm working class
And I treated her real bad
I never got to apologise
About the man who made you sad
I know I said a lot 'cause I was wired
When you're young you're a machine
We were drinking with the idlewild
In the days of speed, and and we met on Christmas Eve
We drank into the morning light
Like we were never going home
And we sang a song a million sing
Just like we scored a goal
I must have made promises I couldn't keep
But if you trust a fool then a fool you will be
But I looked into your eyes and sold you a dream
Then we fled the scene, where we met on Christmas Eve
And then I moved into her big old house
I'd never been to St john's wood
There were movie stars and media types
We were all up to no good
And we all said a lot 'cause we were wired
What a twisted web we weave (what a twisted web we weave)
We were living with the Idlewild
In the days of speed, and we met on Christmas eve
We drank into the morning light
Like we were never going home
And we sang a song a million sing
Just like we scored a goal
I must have made promises I couldn't keep
But if you trust a fool then a fool you will be
But I looked into your eyes and sold you a dream
Then we fled the scene, where we met on Christmas Eve
I know who you're with, and I know where you are
I know you found love and you deserved it
I was just a kid, but I know what I did
I ask for forgiveness if I'm worth it
We drank into the morning light
Like we were never going home
And we sang a song a million sing
Just like we scored a goal
I must have made promises I couldn't keep
But if you trust a fool then a fool you will be
But I looked into your eyes and sold you a dream
Then we fled the scene, where we met on Christmas Eve
Da-da-da...
Da-da-da...
Where we met on Christmas Eve
Da-da-da...
Da-da-da...
Where we met on Christmas Eve
Lyrics Musicmatch
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2021, 12:21 AM
Darkest Night -great lyrics
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2021, 12:22 AM
"I managed to get two songs out of one experience"
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2021, 12:24 AM
I know who you're with, and I know where you are
I know you found love and you deserved it
I was just a kid, but I know what I did
I ask for forgiveness if I'm worth it
I like this.
There can't be many of us who wouldn't like to say "sorry" to a previous partner
Posted by: Sydney11 17th December 2021, 11:46 AM
So good they wrote it twice . Who else would say that
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2021, 11:38 PM
Fairytales.
I like this one
'Next year I wish you more laughter , and plenty of whatever you're after'
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2021, 11:39 PM
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2021, 11:41 PM
Posted by: Sydney11 18th December 2021, 11:48 AM
I do like that song
Posted by: Sydney11 18th December 2021, 11:49 AM
Out & about having coffee this morning & on pops 'Cant Stop Christmas '
Posted by: Laura130262 19th December 2021, 12:42 AM
Digging these tartan trousers
Posted by: Laura130262 19th December 2021, 12:44 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 19th December 2021, 05:58 PM
Do you think they are a bit tight
Posted by: Laura130262 19th December 2021, 11:57 PM
Bad Sharon
Posted by: Laura130262 19th December 2021, 11:58 PM
Posted by: Laura130262 20th December 2021, 12:04 AM
Posted by: Laura130262 20th December 2021, 12:08 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 20th December 2021, 06:33 AM
One selling an album, the other selling a book , that sure was a promo video
Posted by: Sydney11 20th December 2021, 06:36 AM
Bad Sharon
I like Bad Sharon , banging tune
Posted by: elisabeth1974 20th December 2021, 07:02 AM
I realize that there are a lot of videos and promo I missed for the Christmas album
Posted by: Sydney11 20th December 2021, 02:08 PM
Yes, quite a few & it reached Number 1 in the UK charts
Posted by: Laura130262 21st December 2021, 12:10 AM
I missed a lot of it too -the trouble is -it all comes out together doesn't it -he's on every show and doing countless interviews every day and you can't watch it all.
I know I didn't watch all the videos where he's explaining the songs so it's been nice to catch up on them.
Posted by: Laura130262 21st December 2021, 12:14 AM
Happy Birthday Jesus Christ.
Some of the lyrics are a bit clunky but I love it nonetheless
Posted by: Laura130262 21st December 2021, 12:14 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 21st December 2021, 06:45 AM
I know I didn't watch all the videos where he's explaining the songs so it's been nice to catch up on them.
The reminders have been great Laura, I had missed some of the interviews/performances as well so thanks for posting
Posted by: Laura130262 22nd December 2021, 12:03 AM
I like this one
"happy days are here again -if we can't be lovers, we can be friends"
Posted by: Laura130262 22nd December 2021, 12:04 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 22nd December 2021, 04:16 PM
I hope he practices what he preaches & reconciles with Jonny one day
( does not have to be just ex-lovers )
Posted by: Laura130262 23rd December 2021, 12:01 AM
( does not have to be just ex-lovers )Yes -that would be lovely
Posted by: Laura130262 23rd December 2021, 12:02 AM
I love the lyrics to this one -always makes me smile
Posted by: Laura130262 23rd December 2021, 12:05 AM
"Comic genius"
Posted by: Sydney11 23rd December 2021, 05:49 AM
Uncle Dylan's late to lunch
Nana Gwen's drank too much
My lovely wife was buzzed at brunch
We're all a bunch of snowflakes
We're all a bunch of snowflakes
My dad's new girlfriend from Taiwan
Brand new to the country and she's 21
They met online and now she's my mum
She's never seen a snowflake
'Cause they don't get no snowflakes
Posted by: Sydney11 23rd December 2021, 05:51 AM
Posted by: Laura130262 24th December 2021, 12:13 AM
Love this song -the sentiment behind it is gorgeous
Posted by: Laura130262 24th December 2021, 12:17 AM
I love the affirmation for his family that comes up such a lot in his songs nowadays.
And sweet Teddy's voice at the end
Posted by: Laura130262 24th December 2021, 12:18 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 24th December 2021, 11:31 AM
And sweet Teddy's voice at the end
Yeah, I don't want too much of it though, I like the rough & ready as well
Posted by: Sydney11 24th December 2021, 11:34 AM
Love this song -the sentiment behind it is gorgeous
I do love that song, it's gorgeous ..
Posted by: Laura130262 25th December 2021, 12:54 AM
Last but not least -the very beautiful Soul Transmission
Posted by: Laura130262 25th December 2021, 12:55 AM
Happy Christmas everyone xxxx
Posted by: Better Man 25th December 2021, 03:38 PM
Can't Stop Christmas is on repeating for the whole week!
For me it's on the same level as The Road To Mandalay's so it's absolutely top song and single.
The album sounds perfect and better and better since its releasing.
Very original one and one of his best since imperial phase.
Posted by: Laura130262 25th December 2021, 11:48 PM
For me it's on the same level as The Road To Mandalay's so it's absolutely top song and single.
The album sounds perfect and better and better since its releasing.
Very original one and one of his best since imperial phase.
I agree with all of this Alex and i was so against him releasing a Christmas album
Posted by: Better Man 16th June 2022, 08:40 PM
I don't why I found it on YT today )) but his stories after the performance was fun as usual.
I love 'Star Trek'
Posted by: Sydney11 16th June 2022, 09:01 PM
I love 'Star Trek'
& I am a huge Trekkie fan
, watched every series , would love of they did another one 
Posted by: Laura130262 16th June 2022, 11:37 PM
We love Star Trek too!
Especially the original series and all the movies
Posted by: Better Man 16th October 2022, 07:03 AM
Following the link what Syndey have found.
---
MUSIC REVIEWS
ROBBIE WILLIAMS – THE CHRISTMAS PRESENT
Colombia Records
Release Date: November 22nd 2019
Reviewed by: Jonathan Andre
Track Listing:
Winter Wonderland
Merry Christmas Everybody (feat. Jamie Cullum)
Let it Snow
The Christmas Song
Coco’s Christmas Lullaby
Rudolph
Yeah! It’s Christmas
It’s a Wonderful Life (feat. Poppa Pete)
Let’s Not Go Shopping
Santa Baby (feat. Helene Fischer)
Best Christmas Ever
One Last Christmas
Coco’s Christmas Lullaby Reprise
Time For Change
Idlewild
Darkest Night
Fairytales (feat. Rod Stewart)
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) (feat. Bryan Adams)
Bad Sharon (feat. Tyson Fury)
Happy Birthday Jesus Christ
New Year’s Day
Snowflakes
Home
Soul Transmission
I Believe In Father Christmas
Not Christmas
Merry Kissmas
It Takes Two (feat. Rod Stewart)
Robbie Williams is a legend in his own right. He doesn’t need to explain his song choices to anyone, nor does he need to explain why his Christmas album is the first release since 2016’s The Heavy Entertainment Show. Born in the 1970s and making music ever since his band Take That (and then making his name as a solo artist from the mid-1990s onward); Robbie’s ability to craft and create songs that strike a chord with listeners around the world, is why he’s still standing in the 2020s, still making music, and still delivering songs that speak to us all, years upon years later from whence he started his solo career in 1997 with his album Life Thru and Lens and his chart-topping singles from that album, songs like ‘Angels’ and ‘Let Me Entertain You’. Robbie has been part of the industry for quite some time, and even though I haven’t really listened to his music over the years, I’ve still listened here and there. His impact and influence on not only British music, but music full stop, is certainly something that needs to be unpacked further, and it will definitely be so, as my brother will write about Robbie and his influence and impact in a blog post coming up in the next month or so. His impact in music is certainly unparalleled, and considering that his personality and charm is larger than life, alongside his accolades and awards; then, it seems like a no-brainer that we’re going to blog about him, right? It’s been said that Robbie’s sold more albums in the UK than any other solo British artist in the history of music itself, and that he’s won more BRIT awards than any other artist…surely that and that alone would be reason enough to discuss Robbie’s music in this upcoming blog post…right? Till that time arises, and Josh delves into Robbie’s music and discusses why he believes Robbie is a crucial part of music and its rich history; I’ve been listening to some of Robbie’s music on my own. No, it’s not any of his studio albums previously, but rather his 2019 Christmas album The Christmas Present. His first holiday album he’s created in all of his career; Robbie’s unparalleled success in albums past, should automatically mean that this Christmas album is a similar success, right?
Let me just preface this ‘review’; and say that I fully respect Robbie and his career thus far. While I haven’t been as familiar with his music over the years, I do know that his success in the U.K. and around the world has been due to his ability in creating songs throughout his career, that are stylistically and genre-wise…well, different; from the early pop-radio friendly material of the 1990s/early 2000s, to his rock late-2000s era, then followed by swing music, and then back to rock in 2016 with The Heavy Entertainment Show. So when it was time for him to release something different in 2019, a Christmas album, I, along with I’m sure the whole world; decided to sit up and take interest. Because honestly, if we’re being frank and open, then there are indeed a lot of Christmas albums released each year…sometimes too much, if I were to offer my humble opinion. There’s only a select few holiday songs and Christmas carols out there, and you can only hear sooooo many covers of ‘Silent Night’ or ‘Away in a Manger’ before you become frustrated, upset, and irate. So I’m sure my reaction was just like everybody else’s upon hearing Robbie was releasing a Christmas album…confused? Yes, Robbie didn’t release a Christmas album prior to 2019, so maybe he felt like he wanted to ‘get on the bandwagon’ as people say? Whatever the case and whatever the motivations behind the Christmas album, the fact of the matter remains- that the Christmas album is released, and it stands…at a whopping 28 tracks, across 2 discs. Yes, you heard that right. 28 tracks to summon in the holiday season, with festive cheer, familiar holiday songs…and a whole lot of original material.
Now hear me when I say that I’m not against original Christmas music. Some of my favourite songs I have on repeat during the month of December have been originally written Christmas songs, songs like ‘Christmas Card’ (Steven Curtis Chapman), ‘Hallelujah (Light Has Come)’ (BarlowGirl), ‘The Heart of Christmas’ (Matthew West), ‘I Believe’ (Natalie Grant), ‘Jesus is Alive’ (Josh Wilson), ‘Baby Boy’ (for KING & COUNTRY), ‘Labour of Love’ (Andrew Peterson), ‘The Christmas Shoes’ (Newsong), ‘Light of the World’ (Lauren Daigle), and ‘You’re Here’ (Francesca Battistelli); to name a few. So colour me intrigued and interested to say the least when Robbie released his Christmas album 2 years ago in 2019, full of 21 originally written Christmas songs. Yes, you heard me right. 21 out of the 28 were written, full or in part, by Robbie Williams. And though I’m a fan of originally written Christmas music like the next guy…let’s just say that 21 originally written Christmas songs in a track list of 28 is way too much. Sure there are a few Christmas songs that stand out in this 28 track list- ‘Home’ speaks about a togetherness that the Christmas season can foster and bring forth during the month of December, and how being home for Christmas is just as important as being home for birthdays and anniversaries; while ‘Darkest Night’ speaks about people want connection during Christmastime, even settling for the physical sexual connection when they’re really searching and yearning for the emotional and heartfelt connection that people in deeper relationships have. ‘Time For Change’, the album’s first single, speaks about new beginnings, and reminds us all that this season in December is a time for us to start over. As we gather together with family and friends, forgiveness, self-reflection, a clearer understanding for someone of a different POV, and all-round positivity and joy; ought to be things we should strive for, each and every December-time, and this song has given us just that.
‘One Last Christmas’ speaks about a father trying to make amends to his son, apologising for his life’s choices, and asking for forgiveness from people that may be the last, who ought to forgive them. Forgiveness is a very odd thing- there’s no guarantee that the person you forgive would change their ways, and the very act of forgiveness itself impacts the person forgiving on a much grander scale compared to the person who’s been forgiven. To forgive means to set aside any agendas and misconceptions, assumptions, and preconceived ideas. To forgive requires bravery and guts, and a little bit of help from Christ Himself. ‘Happy Birthday Jesus Christ’ is a…satirical (????) song about Jesus, and Robbie (who probably isn’t a Christian) giving thanks for the life of Jesus, and trying, in his own way, to describe what he thinks Jesus is to him. And this is the song that is a result of being vulnerable and honest about what Jesus means. And for that I ought to give him kudos. Because I don’t think any mainstream artist has spoken openly (in a good way or a bad way) about Christ. Sure, they’ve sung the Christmas carols that are most definitely biblical in every way. But every man and his dog, every mainstream artist has sung these songs. It’s a part of our Christmas culture. People who aren’t necessarily Christians sing these carols with fervent abandon and passion- so for Robbie to have a hand in writing ‘Happy Birthday Jesus Christ’ and sing it, even if the song itself hardly ever speaks about the real reason why Jesus came to Earth, is nevertheless remarkable. ‘Happy Birthday Jesus Christ’ ought to be a step into a direction where mainstream artists (who may or may not be Christians themselves) write their own songs about what they think about Christ. Then, and only then, will there be much more honesty, tolerance, acceptance and respect over people’s differing opinions and views about this holiday called Christmas that people seem to assume to be of different importance, depending on the beliefs that you have.
Throughout the rest of Robbie’s humungous track-list, several other originally written songs stand out that continue to remind us that oftentimes original music has more heart, enthusiasm and passion compared to the carols. ‘Let’s Not Go Shopping’ really tries to undo the set assumptions people have during the Christmas holiday season, that shopping for the biggest and best thing for someone is something we all need to partake in- this song flips this notion on its head and states that shopping ought not to be the ‘be-all-and-end-all’ of Christmastime; while ‘Best Christmas Ever’ allows us all to look deep into our childhood and see what constitutes our own ‘best Christmas ever’ and whether people telling their children that Santa isn’t real, leads to people either having their ‘best Christmas ever’ or their ‘worst Christmas ever’- and if telling them in the first place is even necessary. ‘Idlewild’ tells a story about a persona and their first (or maybe even only) love, with the song retelling their life and depicting how Christmas is the opportunity for new beginnings and exciting things if we only let God in (or how people would call it, ‘love’, ‘fate’, ‘the universe’) and we see the wonderful things happen as a result.
‘Fairytales’ is a perfect duet Robbie has with Rod Stewart, as we see an anthem in the making, to declare as Christmas comes around each year. ‘Fairytales’ calls for us to ‘restart’ during the Christmas season, as we believe that no year is too late for us to make a shift in our thinking, as we seek to do better in the upcoming year ahead. ‘New Year’s Day’ speaks of this theme and issue of making amends, and that sometimes Christmas can evoke feelings of regret in people, as we understand that this holiday season brings us things for people that the other 11 months don’t. We think about our lives and take stock, and realise that if we were to die tonight (as the song suggests), we ought to hopefully believe that we leave this earth with our friendships intact and our family bonds strong…but if we don’t think that would be the case, then, we’d have to make amends before then, right? ‘Soul Condition’ is an existential look at life and really asking the questions of why, why do we think about life and all the heavy questions around Christmastime? Because we don’t think about those things the other 11 months of the year. Maybe it’s because we realise that present buying is so futile, that we want something else to matter to us during Christmas. ‘Not Christmas’ arguably could be the most vulnerable original Christmas song yet, as Robbie invites us into a story where the persona unveils to us listeners of his abuse at the hand of family members and friends, every time people come together for the Christmas holidays. Whether the song is actually about Robbie’s life or not remains to be seen, but the message still remains- that sometimes, in extreme cases, you can’t do Christmas with your family because of said relationship-breakdown, and the trauma and abuse that’s been felt all these years with family members. ‘Not Christmas’ does tell a story about a bleak outlook and option for Christmas, but it’s nevertheless a realistic one. Some people don’t have the luxury of having Christmastime with friends and family, and their Christmas could consist of verbal abuse, or alone time, or just a time they want to forget. ‘Not Christmas’ is a sobering outlook on what other people’s lives can be during Christmastime, as we’re called on to have empathy for people in different situations than our own.
One major drawback to this album as a whole are its original tracks, even though I still firmly believe that it’s Robbie’s original Christmas songs that make this album unique, quirky, and interesting. Maybe it’s because that I firmly believe that 21 original tracks in a track list of 28 is most definitely daunting, and to be honest, if a Christmas album is full of unfamiliar songs, people tend to steer clear away from it, no matter how ‘good’ the album is. Because to be honest, if I wasn’t reviewing this album, I probably wouldn’t have listened to Robbie’s Christmas album. Not because I don’t want to listen to new things…but there’s just something odd about a Christmas album that hardly resembles a Christmas album. Nevertheless, I did decide to review this album, and I’m glad that I did. The Christmas Present is an album that continues to solidify Robbie’s presence within the music industry, and reminds us, all that original Christmas material is what I myself get excited about each Christmas. Having said that, I too think that 21 original songs in a track list of 28 is way too much, maybe release an album of 14 or 15 songs and then save the rest for a few years’ time? Nevertheless, this album was released, and to be frank and honest, if I wasn’t reviewing this album, I probably wouldn’t have listened to it- that how the first impression was of this album. Regardless, The Christmas Present is still one of the most left-field albums over the past few years that have actually turned out to be really good. This album is a must for anyone who is a Robbie Williams enthusiast, or even for anyone who wants to listen to a whole bunch of original Christmas songs. Just giving awareness that this album would take a good 2-3 times listen-through before actually appreciating it fully. Robbie’s strengths (original songs) unfortunately would cause this album’s ‘boycott’ (too many unfamiliar tracks), but what the album would do, is remind us that we all need to have a white Christmas sometime in our lives- that’s just a fact. Well done Robbie for this collection of Christmas songs, here’s hoping people look past the initial ‘daunting’ factor and take a plunge and listen. Who knows, this album could be one of your favourite Christmas albums in the last few years. I know it’s been a favourite of mine as well.
5 songs to listen to: Home, Darkest Night, Time For Change, One Last Christmas, Happy Birthday Jesus Christ
Score: 4/5
https://www.365daysofinspiringmedia.com/reviews/robbie-williams-the-christmas-present/
Posted by: Laura130262 11th December 2022, 12:59 AM
Going to start listening to this again tomorrow
Posted by: Laura130262 23rd December 2022, 09:06 PM
Been listening to this a lot this week.
I skip the covers but the original songs are clever, witty, sweet songs.
This being a great example
Posted by: Laura130262 23rd December 2022, 09:08 PM
Love this one with his Dad too
Listened to this a lot today
Who's the Christmas Number One? It's Me
Posted by: Sydney11 24th December 2022, 08:38 AM
Robbie Williams - Snowflakes (Performance)
"Snowflakes"
Leave slowly but come back quick
Eat so much, it makes us sick
Start to look just like Saint Nick
And fall down like a snowflake
Uncle Dylan's late to lunch
Nana Gwen's drank too much
My lovely wife was buzzed at brunch
We're all a bunch of snowflakes
We're all a bunch of snowflakes
Murray the step-dad has brought Mary-Lou
Tryin' to tell us why Trump good for you
The table goes quiet 'cause that's what we do
We're all liberal snowflakes
My dad's new girlfriend from Taiwan
Brand new to the country and she's 21
They met online and now she's my mum
She's never seen a snowflake
'Cause they don't get no snowflakes
Once in a lonely lifetime
There'll be peace for all mankind
I went out to the world
And I was searchin' for my tribe
Now it's a family vibe
In this home of mine
The reason I'm alive
The snowflakes of mine
Mum's bringin' up the past again
And somehow World War III begins
Think I know how this one ends
I'm off to watch the snowflakes
Time won't change us, nothin' will
I know they're not perfect but I love them still
Much makes me happy but my family will
Love this bunch of snowflakes
God bless this bunch of snowflakes
Once in a lonely lifetime
There'll be peace for all mankind
I went out to the world
And I was searchin' for my tribe
Now it's a family vibe
In this home of mine
The reason I'm alive
The snowflakes of mine
All my life
A love insane
These are my people
Ooh-oh, oh, oh, oh
Time won't change us, nothin' will
I know they're not perfect but I love them still
Not much makes me happy but my family will
I love this bunch of snowflakes
God bless this bunch of snowflakes
azlyrics.com
Posted by: Laura130262 24th December 2022, 06:22 PM
My dad's new girlfriend from Taiwan
Brand new to the country and she's 21
They met online and now she's my mum
azlyrics.com
Never fails to amuse me!
Posted by: Sydney11 25th December 2022, 06:16 AM
Posted by: Sydney11 25th December 2022, 06:17 AM
Robbie Williams - Home for Christmas (Acoustic Performance)
Posted by: Sydney11 4th January 2023, 08:31 AM
Time For Change / Cover by Melody ( Official Music Video)
Posted by: WhoOdyssey 17th November 2023, 02:07 PM
Is it time to listen to this again yet?
Posted by: Sydney11 17th November 2023, 05:35 PM
Maybe wait another little bit although I see some homes already have their Xmas lights up
Posted by: Better Man 23rd November 2023, 09:20 PM
Here in Moscow we're having a lot of snow much earlier than usually in November and though we celebrate Christmas in January and New Year is bigger holiday for families it's already not far from winter festive mood. So yes, it's time!
This album gets better and better every year.
I still think Robbie doesn't use a great opportunity to promote this album.
So many GREAT songs on it!
Just heard Best Cristmas Ever and Rudolph... Come on, it's so easy to be on a radio during Xmas period. Very stylish and very classical at the same time.
Yes, it's one of Robbie's best album and Xmas albums so far.
Wish him and this album much more attention and rotations.
Very underrated.
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2023, 12:32 AM
I've been listening to this also this week.
I don't think the covers are necessary but I love the originals.
My favourites are Yeah, it's Christmas (bloody genius lyrics and retro feel to it), Rudolph, Coco's Christmas lullaby, Soul Transmission, Fairytales, and It's a Wonderful Life
also special mention to this genius video -so capturing the covid period. I watched it three times before I realised RW was Boris Johnson
Posted by: Laura130262 17th December 2023, 12:37 AM
His acting skills are brilliant and sorely under used.
and on a superficial level -he looks gorgeous on the video - when he's not Boris - great hair
Posted by: Better Man 17th December 2023, 07:49 AM
Fully agree with you, Laura!
This album must be on chart every year since it's releasing.
I don't know why it's not.
But even Last Christmas haven't bene a Number 1 during 30+ years so The Christmas Present will be back in 20-30 years ))))
I would safe 3 covers on it: Bryan Adams duet, Chestnuts Roasting...(because It has a quality Is Swing 1 like One For My Baby), and maybe Merry Xmas Everybody but better they would record Have Yourself...
My faves: One Last Christmas (how cool his voice sounds here! my friends think it's Elvis), Rudolph, Can't Stop Christmas, It's a Wonderful Life, Fairytales, Bad Sharon. Again even 6 songs have different styles.
Again, it's amazing album of tons of wonderful tracks. I say thank Mr Williams for this record!
Yes, maybe Robbie's Top-3 album for me.
Posted by: Irena 17th December 2023, 04:03 PM
Quick HELLOOOOOOO I don't know where the chat topic is, haven't been here in aaaaaageeeees 
Posted by: Kathryn24601 17th December 2023, 07:49 PM
I just started listening to this album in December.
For some reason I thought it would be full of cringe covers but actually
the originals are like a proper studio album.
I’ve made a separate playlist for them, which I’ve had on for the commute, and I’m really loving it now.
Particularly Rudolph, Home, Best Christmas Ever, Merry Kissmas and Idlewild.
Posted by: vibe 17th December 2023, 07:59 PM
Seems to be forgotten this album
Posted by: Laura130262 18th December 2023, 12:33 AM
Agree -Best Christmas Ever is another great track
Powered by Invision Power Board
© Invision Power Services