Ever since the original animated television special The Grinch Who Stole Christmas first aired in 1966, its featured song, You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch, has been a holiday staple. On the off chance you are old enough to read and yet unaware of this classic work, it’s the story of an ugly green ne’er-do-well who ruined the holidays for a town filled with precious doe-eyed do-gooders.
Like the book on which the cartoon version was based, the lyrics for Mr Grinch were written by Theodore Geisel, aka Dr. Suess, with music by Broadway composer Albert Hague. Children have loved the song from the first time they hear it this past 59 years, for its pairing of horribly ominous lyrics set against the ridiculous figure of the Grinch on screen.
The song has been recorded many times over the intervening years, and for 2025 we have a bluegrass version, courtesy of the Stillhouse Junkies, accompanied by Tim O’Brien. They turn in a very honest reading, complete with orchestration, and all the snarling, sneering contempt they can muster.
Have a listen.
You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch is available now from popular download and streaming services online. Merry Christmas Whos!
You can check out all the Christmas bluegrass we have covered at Bluegrass Today by following this link.
