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Brenda Lee: Rockin' Around

Season 38 Episode 6 | 52m 55s

Discover the story behind singer Brenda Lee’s iconic songs and explore how her early fame and life of poverty shaped her artistry across pop, rock ‘n’ roll and country. Known for her Christmas classic and Billboard hit “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” she is still a force in music today. The film features interviews with Keith Urban, Pat Benatar, Neil Giraldo and many others.

Aired: 12/15/24 | Expires: 01/14/25
Support for American Masters is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, AARP, Rosalind P. Walter Foundation, Judith and Burton Resnick, Blanche and Hayward Cirker Charitable Lead Annuity Trust, Koo and Patricia Yuen, Lillian Goldman Programming Endowment, Seton J. Melvin, Thea Petschek Iervolino Foundation, Anita and Jay Kaufman, The Philip and Janice Levin Foundation, Kate W. Cassidy Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, The Ambrose Monell Foundation, Ellen and James S. Marcus, The Charina Endowment Fund, The Marc Haas Foundation and public television viewers.
Extras
Brenda Lee began working as a professional singer at just eight years old to support her family.
Brenda Lee made appearances on television, radio and live shows all before she even signed a deal.
Owen Bradley, producer at Decca Records, took Brenda Lee under his wing and became a mentor to her.
Brenda Lee met her husband Ronnie Shacklett at the age of 17 and eloped with him six months later.
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.
These are 3 of Brenda's Lee most notable performances from Jubilee USA, also known as Ozark Jubilee.
Official music video for "I Am A Renegade" by theRing, the theme song for "Renegades."
Quincy Jones discusses his early career, friendships and how he defines himself.
Explore Brad Lomax’s under-reported contributions to the early disability justice movement.
Explore Brad Lomax’s under-reported contributions to the early disability justice movement.