Carly Simon Re-Writes “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” For Children of Divorce

You Can Count On Carly

Carly Simon is a down-right amazing person. Her musical career has been successful and celebrated. The character she carries with her is genuine and warm. The woman can do no wrong! That’s not to say that her life has been smooth sailing. Carly Simon married fellow musician/ songwriter James Taylor in 1972. The couple struggled through numerous marital tribulations. The strife lasted a little over 10 years. The rock star couple divorced in 1983. From the relationship, Carly and James had 2 children. As a mother, the songstress understood the importance of always making the children’s transition through the divorce as smooth as possible.

Shining A Little Light

Carly suffered on behalf of her children. She understood that the end of their parent’s divorce was confusing and scary for them. Her empathy and maternal instinct led her to re-work “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” The holidays are expected to be a joyously familial time. That sort of expectation can be tremendous and stressful. For children, those feelings are skewed and puzzling- especially if they have to split that time.

Carly was inspired to re-write the Christmas classic for children who have been towed through their mom and dad’s divorce. The result was a beautifully dedicated rendition. She performed the new “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” live on the Caroline Rhea Show in 2002. Along with a single guitarist and one bassist, the song was quiet and clear. It’s a smooth and touching listen- perfect for children.

What a thoughtful performance. Merry Christmas, Carly Simon!

I’ll be home for Christmas
You can count on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents under the tree

Christmas eve will find me
Where the love light gleams
I’ll be home for Christmas
But only in my dreams

I won’t have to wait in the driveway
I’ll be welcome back inside
Please ask the kids
To put on their pretty things
But do not give away my surprise

Destiny has it’s reasons
And sometimes the ride is free
I’ll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams