'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' Gets First Spanish Version After 70 Years Thanks to AI Translation

'Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree' Gets First Spanish Version After 70 Years Thanks to AI Translation

By Marcus Hartley

November 16, 2024 at 10:02 PM

Brenda Lee's iconic 1958 holiday classic "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" has been reimagined in Spanish using AI technology, marking a historic first for the beloved Christmas song.

Brenda Lee singing on stage

Brenda Lee singing on stage

Universal Music Group (UMG) has released "Noche Buena y Navidad," a Spanish version created through a careful AI-assisted process that maintains the integrity of Lee's original performance. The project combines:

  • Original instrumentals and background vocals
  • Spanish lyrics adapted by producer Auero Baqueiro
  • Vocals recorded by Chilean singer Leyla Hoyle
  • AI vocal modeling using Lee's archived recordings
  • Technology from MicDrop creator SoundLabs

Brenda Lee, now 79, has expressed enthusiasm about the project: "I am so blown away by this new Spanish version. Throughout my career, I performed and recorded many songs in different languages, but I never recorded 'Rockin'' in Spanish, which I would have loved to do."

The release represents a significant milestone in AI's application in music, demonstrating how the technology can be used responsibly to preserve artistic integrity while reaching new audiences. The project received full authorization from the original artist and uses UMG's properly licensed archive materials.

This innovative approach to modernizing classic holiday music could pave the way for similar projects, as the music industry continues to explore the potential of AI technology while addressing concerns about unauthorized use and maintaining artistic authenticity.

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