Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager are officially spreading some holiday cheer with the release of their festive single, “A Carefree Christmas With Hoda & Jenna,” which dropped on November 29, 2023. The dynamic duo, co-hosts of Today, debuted their cheerful holiday song and its accompanying music video during the show’s fourth hour, marking a fun and heartfelt way to kick off the holiday season. The catchy tune features lyrics full of holiday joy, with the line “It’s gonna be a carefree Christmas, stop and smell the pine, boughs of holly make us jolly, we’re all feeling fine,” sure to get listeners in the spirit.
A Heartwarming Collaboration with Vocal Coach Cheryl Porter
The holiday track wouldn’t have come to life without the support of their vocal coach, Cheryl Porter, who helped them hone their singing skills. “We love Cheryl so much, and without Cheryl, our song would sound a lot worse,” Bush Hager, 42, shared after the music video’s premiere. Porter, a trained opera singer with over 20 years of experience, worked closely with both Kotb and Bush Hager to help them find their rhythm, stepping outside their comfort zones to create the perfect harmony.
Porter, known for her viral vocal lessons and positive energy, shared her excitement with fans on Instagram, saying, “I really hope you will be able to watch @hodaandjenna on @nbc at 10 am to be the very first to see if me and the ladies were able to pull it off No matter what, I’m so proud of them.”
The First of Many? Hoda and Jenna Dream Big
While “A Carefree Christmas” marks their first musical project together, Bush Hager teased that it might not be their last. “It could just be the first of many singles,” she joked with a smile, though Kotb humorously added, “It could be the only, too.” Regardless of whether this holiday song becomes part of a series, it’s clear the duo is having a blast with the project, with Kotb quipping, “If we do, it’s a Christmas miracle,” referencing their potential to chart with their festive tune.
What’s Next for Hoda and Jenna?
The pair have big dreams for the future, with Bush Hager joking about possibly performing their song on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. “Do you think [Jimmy] Fallon’s gonna have us perform?” she asked Kotb. To which Kotb playfully replied, “If we ask enough times.”
For now, fans can stream “A Carefree Christmas With Hoda & Jenna” on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify, adding this feel-good song to their holiday playlists and enjoying the lighthearted charm the duo brings to the season.
A Perfect Holiday Collaboration
The song represents more than just a fun holiday release; it’s a testament to the camaraderie and friendship Kotb and Bush Hager share. Their genuine excitement to try something new and their clear love for one another shine through, making “A Carefree Christmas” the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. Whether it’s the first of many songs or just a one-time festive treat, Hoda and Jenna are certainly bringing a smile to their fans’ faces this Christmas season.
