As Christmas approaches, many traditional and iconic Christmas songs are being played on the radio, but there is one song that is attracting more trouble than cheer. Lyrics to the iconic song “Baby it’s Cold Outside” have caused people to start reevaluating the meaning of the song as a whole. With lyrics such as:

The neighbors might think (baby, it’s bad out there)
Say what’s in this drink? (no cabs to be had out there)

and

I ought to say, no, no, no sir (mind if I move in closer?)
At least I’m gonna say that I tried (what’s the sense in hurtin’ my pride?)

Some say that these lyrics suggest that the man slipped something into her drink, but throughout the whole song it seems to be about the woman wishing to leave but the man is insisting that she stay, using the weather, saying that it is too bad for her to brave.

Junior Cali McKelvey (who recently heard the lyrics) says, “They really need to take it down. Like I have no clue what it means, but now that I know, I for sure think it offensive and they need to take it off the radio for sure.”

While Julie Renaker, didn’t see why it was even a festive song.”Yes it should be taken off the radio, the song sounds depressing,” she said.

Some students say that people are reaching for a meaning to try and make a story out of nothing.  “I think people are too sensitive. They can change the channel if it upsets them,” said Senior Angelina Stubbs.

Some students even acknowledge the double meaning of the lyrics, but feel that everyone interprets things differently. “No, it shouldn’t be taken off the radio,” said junior Emma Gronda. “The lyrics can be interpreted as a kind of rapey, but the actual song is lighthearted and teasing,” Gronda added. “My interpretation is that she wants to say yes, but she is expected to say no.” 

The song is considered a classic Christmas song with references to snow and winter, but as the world changes and people become more aware of certain issues pertaining to sexual assault. The lyrics of songs have different meanings to different people and it is up to the person who is listening what the lyrics mean to them. Overall the song will probably stay on radio waves as it puts many listeners in a very festive mood.

Contributions from: Naomi Horner, Rylee MaIsaac, Hayley Payton, and Anna Brock