Vol.165: Rocking Christmas with Andrew Clarke!
Strange Crew, We got a holiday exclusive for ya! We got to go to Trillium House Studios with Paul Milner to get a behind the scenes scoop on an wicked cool recording session and interview with award winning singer songwriter Andrew Clarke.
We have included lots about him and the new music and encourage you to check it out. We had a blast chatting with him.
Andrew Clarke Rocks Christmas with "Wake Me Up on Christmas Day"
The holiday season just got a serious upgrade, thanks to singer-songwriter Andrew Clarke and his brand new Christmas single, "Wake Me Up on Christmas Day." This isn't your typical holiday track—it's an all-star jam session of guitar gods and world-class instrumentalists creating a song that’s as festive as it is unforgettable.
In the studio with Paul Milner and Andrew Clarke. Photo by Michael Hawkins
A Christmas Track Like No Other
Wake Me Up on Christmas Day is pure holiday magic, blending Clarke's warm, soulful voice with an electric mix of acoustic guitars and stellar musicianship. It's a song that’ll hit you right in the feels while cranking up the holiday cheer. But what really makes this track stand out is the all-star lineup of musicians behind it.
The All-Star Lineup
Tommy Emmanuel
When you talk about guitar legends, Tommy Emmanuel is at the top of the list. A Grammy-nominated virtuoso with a career that spans decades, Tommy’s lightning-fast fingerstyle and passion for music shine through on this track. His contribution is nothing short of legendary.
Parker Hastings
Then there’s Parker Hastings, a teenage guitar prodigy who’s been shredding since he was six. Despite his age, Parker plays with the maturity and technical skill of a seasoned pro, bringing fresh energy to the Christmas classic.
JP Cormier is a Canadian folk and bluegrass legend, with 13 East Coast Music Awards and a Canadian Folk Music Award under his belt. His multi-instrumental mastery adds a rich, textured layer to the song that’ll have you nodding along to every chord.
Muriel Anderson
Next up, Muriel Anderson, a virtuoso on the 20-string harp-guitar, adds an ethereal touch to the track. Having performed with icons like Les Paul and Doc Watson, Muriel’s mystical melodies bring an almost otherworldly feel to the song.
Alberto Lombardi
Rounding out the group is Alberto Lombardi, an Italian guitar maestro whose fusion of acoustic fingerstyle and electric rock chops adds an undeniable intensity to the track. His international touring experience makes him a perfect fit for this high-energy holiday anthem.
The Power of Collaboration
The magic of "Wake Me Up on Christmas Day lies in how these musicians push each other to new heights. Each player brings something unique to the table, from Emmanuel’s flawless fingerpicking to Anderson’s haunting harp-guitar melodies. Together, they’ve created something that’s not just a holiday tune, but a work of art that’s sure to be remembered.
Why You’ll Love It
Whether you’re a guitar aficionado, a lover of classic Christmas tunes, or just someone who appreciates a killer collaboration, this track is a must-listen. With Andrew Clarke’s heartfelt performance and the powerhouse musicians backing him, "Wake Me Up on Christmas Day" is a holiday anthem for the ages.
So this Christmas, crank up this track and let it be the soundtrack to your celebrations. It’s the perfect mix of heart, rock ‘n’ roll, and holiday spirit—one you’ll want to share with family and friends.
Don’t miss it—press play, feel the magic, and let this song remind you why the holidays rock! We hope you love Strange Crew.
