Happy Holidays

St. Petersburg, FL – December 6, 2024 — Wrapped in warmth and vintage charm, Bill Rolon of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay brought timeless holiday cheer to the stage with his solo performance of Irving Berlin’s “Happy Holidays”, performed in the classic Bing Crosby arrangement. The moment unfolded during the chorus’s annual “Slay Bells” concert at Allendale United Methodist Church on December 6, 2024, and instantly transported the audience to the golden age of holiday music.

With a smooth tenor and an effortless sense of style, Rolon paid homage to the legendary crooner while adding his own graceful flair. His voice, rich and velvety, glided through Berlin’s cheerful melody with ease, offering just the right balance of nostalgia and nuance. From the first notes, Rolon exuded the easy elegance that defined the original while making the performance feel fresh and personal.

Backed by the full chorus, Rolon was supported by a lush vocal bed of harmonies that shimmered like tinsel beneath his solo line. The arrangement—faithful to the 1940s original with just a hint of modern polish—allowed the chorus to fill the space with warmth and spirit without ever overshadowing the intimacy of the solo.

Dressed in crisp holiday fashion and framed by tasteful staging, Rolon delivered the song with a twinkle in his eye and a welcoming presence that felt like an invitation into an old-fashioned holiday gathering. His interpretation embraced the song’s gentle optimism—“Happy holidays / While the merry bells keep ringing”—reminding the audience of the simple joy in wishing one another well this time of year.

The audience responded with smiles, swaying along in their seats, and giving a wave of applause as the final notes faded. In a concert filled with campy comedy, soulful ballads, and powerhouse ensemble numbers, “Happy Holidays” served as a moment of sweet simplicity—a nod to tradition, comfort, and the enduring power of song to bring people together.

Bill Rolon’s performance was more than a nostalgic throwback; it was a love letter to the season itself. With poise, heart, and classic crooner charm, he reminded everyone why Irving Berlin’s music—and the spirit behind it—still resonates today. It was a performance that felt like a warm mug of cocoa by the fire: familiar, comforting, and full of joy.

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Underneath the Tree

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My Only Wish (This Year)