It is difficult to imagine that one of the most cherished Christmas songs of all time did not start as something meant to stand out. It began as a last-minute solution to a problem, created under pressure with barely any time to think. There was no talk of awards, legacy, or holiday traditions, just a need to fill a gap and move on. 

Yet that rushed moment went on to define the mood of the festival for generations. This Peanuts Christmas track, written in just five minutes and tied to an overlooked envelope, proves how something ordinary can quietly become unforgettable.

The Peanuts holiday song 'Christmastime Is Here' was written in just five minutes on the back of an envelope by producer Lee Mendelson, according to his son Jason Mendelson's interview with PEOPLE. The song became the theme for the 1965 CBS special A Charlie Brown Christmas after the team realized Vince Guaraldi’s opening waltz needed lyrics.

With no outside help available, Lee Mendelson quickly penned the now-iconic lines, “Christmastime is here, happiness and cheer, fun for all, what the children call their favorite time of year,” and sent them to Guaraldi, who recorded them with a local church choir.

The rushed creation mirrored the intense, time-crunched production of the first Peanuts TV special, which brought together Lee Mendelson, Vince Guaraldi, director Bill Melendez, and creator Charles M. Schulz. Jason Mendelson told PEOPLE the group had no time to second-guess decisions, relying purely on instinct while creating the film. That spontaneity helped shape its soundtrack too, which has endured for decades, with 'Christmastime Is Here' later covered by myriad artists.

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The artists covering 'Christmastime Is Here' are no rookies either, with some of them being the most impactful musicians of the contemporary era.

'Christmastime Is Here' has been sung and loved by many artists over the years. Tony Bennett brought his smooth voice to the song on his 2008 album 'A Swingin’ Christmas,' while Rosemary Clooney included it on her 1996 festive effort 'White Christmas.' Mariah Carey performed it on her 2010 ABC Christmas special Merry Christmas to You, and John Legend gave it a soulful touch on his 2018 album 'A Legendary Christmas.'

Ultimately, decades after it was written in just five minutes, 'Christmastime Is Here' continues to bring warmth to the holiday season. Its simple melody and heartfelt lyrics have earned it a spot alongside other favorite Christmas songs on everyone’s festive playlists. From the original Peanuts special to covers by Tony Bennett, Mariah Carey, John Legend, and more, the song’s charm has lasted through the years. It is clearly a reminder that sometimes the simplest, most unplanned creations can become the most loved and timeless.

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Were you aware of 'Christmastime Is Here’s origin story before this article? Let us know in the comments below.