The British radio comedy program The Goon Show was originally produced and broadcast by the BBC Home Service from 1951 to 1960. Episodes were repeated over subsequent decades in the UK and Australia.
I’m Walking Backwards for Christmas was originally sung by Spike Milligan in an episode of The Goon Show to replace a regular musical number during a musicians’ strike. It was later released in the UK as a single and reached #4 on the local charts. The single wasn’t released in Australia at the time but has since become well-known and -loved.
Year of UK release:
1956
Songwriters:
Spike Milligan, Tom Carbone
Bonus audio below: edited highlights of The Goon Show
More about The Goon Show
Lyrics:
I’m walking backwards for Christmas,
Across the Irish Sea,
I’m walking backwards for Christmas,
It’s the only thing for me.
I’ve tried walking sideways,
And walking to the front,
But people just look at me,
And say it’s a publicity stunt.
I’m walking backwards for Christmas,
To prove that I love you.
Click for full lyrics
Also on Bang a Gong: Ying Tong Song by The Goons
Find more songs to enjoy: Bang a Gong song finder
BONUS AUDIO
The Best of the Goon Shows – edited highlights:
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