Brenda Lee’s iconic holiday tune, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” has dethroned Mariah Carey’s perennial favorite, securing the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. At 78, Lee, also known as Little Miss Dynamite, celebrates the 65th anniversary of her festive classic. This achievement makes it the third holiday song to claim #1 on the charts. The accompanying music video, featuring Tanya Tucker and Trisha Yearwood, recently premiered, marking a milestone in the song’s history.

Lee’s achievement extends beyond the song’s success. Breaking records, it boasts the longest wait between release and reaching number 1, and it also marks the longest span between an artist’s number 1 hits. Impressively, at nearly 80, Lee becomes the oldest person to top the Billboard chart.

In a heartfelt response, Lee expressed her disbelief and gratitude, stating, “I cannot believe that ‘Rockin” has hit No. 1 65 years after it was released, this is just so special! Thank you to the team at UMG/UMe and, most importantly, thank you to the fans who keep listening. It is one of the best gifts I have ever received. Keep on Rockin’ and Merry Christmas!”