Back to Show
American Masters
The success of Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree”
Brenda Lee recorded “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” written by Johnny Marx, when she was 12 years old. The song received a boost thanks to its inclusion in the classic holiday movie "Home Alone." Brenda became the oldest woman to reach #1 on the Top 100 Billboard Charts when “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree” charted in 2023.
Support Provided By

54:31
El artista José Clemente Orozco (1883-1945) encabezó el movimiento muralista en México.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:29
Experience the groundbreaking sounds of bebop pioneer and virtuoso composer Max Roach.

1:22:12
Trace the life and legacy of labor activist Cesar Chavez through music and the arts.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:22:45
Follow the 50-year career of First Amendment lawyer and legal expert Floyd Abrams.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:33:44
Experience the political and personal journey of California governor Jerry Brown.

1:29:31
Experience the meteoric rise and enduring legacy of Little Richard.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:45:01
See the world through the eyes of Nam June Paik, the father of video art.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:51:39
Follow two performers as they break down barriers in opera and country music.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:53:11
Join Dr. Anthony Fauci as he reflects on his life and career as a public health advocate.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:23:43
Discover music icon Roberta Flack’s rise to stardom and triumphs over racism and sexism.

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:21:59
Discover the enduring friendship between legendary comedians Dick Cavett and Groucho Marx.

1:22:55
Explore Nobel Prize winner Saul Bellow's impact on American literature.