Attention, country music fans! The holiday season just got a whole lot cooler, thanks to Parker McCollum’s unforgettable performance during the 2025 CMA Country Christmas special. Broadcast live on ABC on December 2, 2025, this was no ordinary Christmas cover. McCollum, known for his smooth country-rock style, gave “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” a fresh, playful, and jazzy twist that had viewers and critics alike talking. Best of all? You can hear this performance—and others just like it—randomly throughout the holiday season on Live Jam, where every song is a live version.
A Jazzy, Playful Spin on a Holiday Classic
In a genre where traditional country versions of Christmas classics are the norm, McCollum’s rendition stood out as a breath of fresh air. Known for his smooth vocals and rock-infused country sound, he took a bold step outside his usual musical territory, adding a touch of jazz and swing to the well-loved holiday anthem. Backed by a full jazz band, McCollum brought a unique energy to the track, while still maintaining his signature “Parker swagger” that fans have come to adore.
McCollum’s performance was far from a standard rendition of the song. He infused it with a lively, upbeat vibe that not only captured the festive spirit of the season but also highlighted his versatility as an artist. The jazzy influences added a surprising layer to the familiar tune, turning it into something fresh and exciting.
A Special Performance Filmed at the Iconic Fisher Center
The performance wasn’t just memorable for its musical twist—it was also filmed at the stunning Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. This location, known for its acoustics and beautiful setting, provided the perfect backdrop for McCollum’s holiday performance. The grandeur of the venue combined with McCollum’s smooth performance created a truly magical atmosphere, transporting viewers straight into the heart of Nashville’s vibrant music scene.
Full-Circle Moment for McCollum
For McCollum, this performance was more than just a holiday special—it was a full-circle moment in his career. He revealed that “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” was the first song he ever performed on live TV early in his career, making this rendition an especially sentimental experience. To have the opportunity to perform this same track on one of country music’s biggest stages was a powerful reminder of how far he’s come since those early days. This emotional connection to the song added an extra layer of authenticity to his performance, making it even more meaningful for both the artist and the audience.
Stream It Now and Catch It on Live Jam
If you missed McCollum’s standout holiday performance, don’t worry—you can still enjoy it! The 2025 CMA Country Christmas special is available for streaming on Sunset Hulu and Disney+ following its ABC broadcast, so you can watch the entire show whenever you want. And if you’re tuning in to Live Jam, you might catch McCollum’s jazzy rendition of “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” sprinkled throughout the holiday season.
At Live Jam, we specialize in delivering the best live performances, and we’re excited to feature this unforgettable moment. Whether you’re a longtime Parker McCollum fan or you’re just discovering his music, this performance is a must-see (and a must-hear) during the holiday season. Stay tuned to Live Jam, where we bring you the raw energy of live shows—and don’t forget to keep an ear out for McCollum’s playful holiday twist.
Live Jam is where the best live performances come to life, showcasing iconic moments like Parker McCollum’s jazzy holiday cover and more. Stay with us for the ultimate collection of live versions of your favorite songs, delivered straight to your speakers.
