John Legend and Kelly Clarkson are modernizing the classic holiday duet “Baby It’s Cold Outside” to better align with contemporary values. Originally written in 1944 by Frank Loesser, the song has been a staple of holiday music, yet its themes have drawn criticism for promoting coercion and uncomfortable situations. Rather than discarding this beloved tune, Legend has taken the initiative to refresh its lyrics, ensuring they reflect a more consensual approach to relationships.
Refreshing the Lyrics
In a recent interview, Legend revealed his plans, emphasizing that the new version will retain the lively spirit of the original while addressing its problematic elements. The revised lyrics replace lines that suggest pressure and manipulation, transforming them into a conversation that emphasizes choice and respect. For example, instead of the original’s questionable inquiries like, “Say, what’s in this drink?” the new lines focus on mutual enjoyment and decision-making, such as, “I’ve gotta go away (I can call you a ride).”
Collaboration and Release
Collaborating with fellow artist and The Voice judge Kelly Clarkson, Legend has crafted lyrics that resonate with today’s ethos. Natasha Rothwell, known for her work on Insecure, also contributed to this project. The updated version is set to be released as a single and featured in the expanded edition of Legend’s Christmas album, A Legendary Christmas: The Deluxe Edition, coming out on November 8.
Mixed Reactions
Despite these efforts to modernize the song, the response online has been mixed, with some individuals expressing discontent about the changes. Critics have labeled the remake as offensive, showcasing how sensitive the topic of reinterpreting classics can be. Other artists, like Miley Cyrus, have also taken similar steps to alter traditional holiday songs to convey a more empowering message, which has sparked varied reactions.
Exploring More Resources
For those who may not appreciate these updates to holiday classics, it might be best to avoid them altogether. Meanwhile, fans of the new interpretations will likely enjoy the fresh takes throughout the festive season. If you’re interested in exploring more about family planning or pregnancy options, check out this post on home insemination techniques here, or learn about boosting fertility supplements here, as well as this excellent resource for IVF here.
Conclusion
In summary, John Legend’s and Kelly Clarkson’s reimagined version of “Baby It’s Cold Outside” seeks to replace outdated themes with a narrative that promotes consent and mutual respect, reflecting the values of today’s society. Although reactions to this update are polarized, it highlights the ongoing conversation about how we approach and enjoy classic songs in a modern context.