Slade guitarist Dave Hill has exclusively revealed the heartfelt secret behind the band's perennial Christmas anthem, 'Merry Xmas Everybody', while opening up about the financial reality of not being one of its writers.
The Timeless Appeal of a Festive Anthem
In a candid interview, the 79-year-old rock legend explained that the song's enduring success, spanning 52 years, lies in its relatable depiction of a typical British Christmas. Released in 1973, the track famously beat Wizzard's 'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday' to the UK number one spot, holding the top position until February 1974.
"It's about everybody having half a dozen, getting the booze down, getting the family around, buying presents, everything we like about Christmas," Hill stated. He emphasised that the song's power comes from its focus on universal festive joys—family, presents, and good cheer—rather than religion, making it resonate with "people of any age from nine to 90."
A Song for Tough Times, Then and Now
Hill drew poignant parallels between the era of the song's release and modern-day Britain. He recalled that in 1973, the nation faced three-day weeks, strikes, and economic hardship. "Britain was on its knees," he said, "but that song lifted a nation."
He believes the anthem's message of communal spirit remains vital today. "We’re still going through a tough time... Be kind to one another because everybody is having a tough time," Hill reflected, adding his concern that "kindness has become less in our world."
Royalties and Lifelong Friendship
The interview also touched on the song's substantial commercial success. 'Merry Xmas Everybody' earns up to £1 million in royalties annually, with the writing credits—and thus the majority of income—going to bandmates Noddy Holder and Jim Lea.
Hill, who performed on the iconic track alongside drummer Don Powell, insists he feels no jealousy. "No. Noddy and Jim were excellent writers. I didn’t write it," he said, praising their talent. He expressed pride in his contribution to the record.
Despite the original Slade line-up disbanding in 1992, Hill's bond with Holder remains unbroken. The pair have supported each other through serious health issues, including Hill's stroke in 2010 and Holder's oesophageal cancer diagnosis in 2018. "There is definitely something between me and Noddy that’s always been strong," Hill said. "He is one of my all-time best friends and remains so."
New Music and Lasting Legacy
Away from Slade's legacy, Hill is currently recording his first ever solo album, titled 'Dirtyfoot Lane'—named after a location in his hometown of Wolverhampton. The project, set for release in 2026, sees him collaborating with Noddy Holder's son, producer Django Holder.
The album will feature a song, 'Thanks For The Good Times', dedicated to his former bandmates. While thrilled to work with Django, Hill doesn't foresee a performance reunion with Noddy himself, respecting his friend's happy retirement. "Working with Noddy’s son Django Holder has been the cherry on the cake," he concluded.
