Parker McCollum Releases Dylan’s Must Be Santa Cover

Conroe native Parker McCollum, the chart-topping country music sensation, has delivered an early holiday surprise to fans, dropping his unique take on Bob Dylan’s famously quirky, bluesy track, “Santa-Claus.” Available since Friday, November 17, 2023, on all major streaming platforms, the unexpected cover is quickly becoming a distinctive addition to Christmas playlists worldwide, showcasing McCollum’s versatile artistry.

Dylan’s original, officially titled “Must Be Santa,” first appeared on his 2009 holiday album, “Christmas in the Heart.” Known for its distinctive talking blues style, polka-inspired accordion, and a somewhat gravelly, spoken-word delivery, Dylan’s version is an outlier in traditional holiday music. McCollum, signed to MCA Nashville, injects the track with his signature country sound, trading the accordion for steel guitars and a more polished, yet still heartfelt, vocal performance that brings a fresh, Texas-country sensibility to the festive tune. The choice highlights McCollum’s willingness to interpret classic material in his own distinct style.

This festive release caps off a phenomenal year for the “Gold Chain Cowboy,” following the successful conclusion of his “Burn It Down” tour. The tour, named after his latest chart-topping single, saw McCollum play to sold-out arenas across the country, further solidifying his status as a major force in country music. His impressive string of hits, including multiple No. 1 singles like “Handle On You,” “Pretty Heart,” and “To Be Loved By You,” has paved the way for this holiday venture. McCollum’s rapid ascent was officially recognized in 2022 when he was crowned the ACM New Male Artist of the Year, a testament to his impactful songwriting and compelling live performances.

Fans hoping to catch McCollum live have several high-profile opportunities throughout December. Kicking off the month, he will join country legend George Strait at the massive Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on December 2. This stadium show is a significant milestone for the Conroe artist, performing alongside one of country music’s all-time greats. As the year draws to a close, McCollum will bring his electrifying show to some of Texas’ most esteemed venues: the elegant Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth on December 29, followed by the historic Majestic Theatre in Dallas on December 30. He will then ring in the New Year with a highly anticipated performance at the iconic Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth on December 31, a fitting end to a landmark year for the Texas-born star. Ticket information for these dates can be found through official venue and ticketing websites.

Whether you’re looking for a fresh take on a holiday classic or eager to experience his acclaimed live show, Parker McCollum continues to deliver. His “Santa-Claus” cover offers a unique blend of festive cheer and authentic country flair, ensuring a distinctive sound for your holiday season.