Santa Baby and the Subversive Santa Kardashian

Christmas brings with it those timeless melodies that have become part of our seasonal memories. One of the most iconic in recent years is "All I Want for Christmas Is You," performed by the incomparable Mariah Carey. This song, resonating every Christmas since the mid-nineties, evokes a flood of memories and emotions each December. However, this year, a new melody has arrived to shake up tradition: "Santa Baby," performed by the influencer Kim Kardashian.

"Santa Baby" isn't just another Christmas song; it's a timeless classic from the fifties, popularized by singer Eartha Kitt. While I didn't grow up listening to this song on a transistor radio, I know the tune because, today, it's easy to find versions online. I didn't grow up with Kitt's music, but I did know her from childhood as Catwoman in the 60s Batman series.

Kim Kardashian, known for her exceptional personal branding skills, her almost innate ability to capture public attention, and her flair for breaking the internet, boldly ventures into the musical world with her own rendition of this classic. Her release has generated considerable buzz on social media and beyond. While she isn't aiming to sell many records or compete with Beyoncé for a Super Bowl halftime spot, Kardashian knows exactly how to stay in the public's mind and elevate her personal brand like no one else.

The track "Santa Baby" is accompanied by a powerful video directed by Nadia Lee Cohen. This outstanding visual work combines aesthetics and provocation. Cohen, a filmmaker, model, and photographer, is known for her work with avant-garde brands like Adidas and Balenciaga and collaborations with artists like Rihanna and A$AP Rocky. Her distinctive style shines in this video, evoking the decadence and nostalgia of old Hollywood, reminiscent of classic films like "Sunset Boulevard" and contemporary visual art like David Lynch's "Mulholland Drive."

It's impossible to watch the video without recalling the powerful surreal and grotesque images characteristic of transgressive directors like David Lynch and Harmony Korine, whose provocative and controversial style Cohen seems to have successfully adopted. The video exudes a decadent, nostalgic, and festive atmosphere, reminiscent of the spirit of Federico Fellini. Kim appears with a blonde wig, crawling on the floor of a house amid a decadent festive setting, surrounded by countless unexpected elements: animals, fish tanks, football players, religious images, models, bodybuilders, and more.

Each scene of "Santa Baby" is imbued with symbolism and boundless creativity. The production is a visual carnival inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world where the absurd meets the glamorous. The influence of classic cinema is felt in every frame, reminding us that art can be both a visual delight and an emotional experience. Nadia Lee Cohen has stated that she draws inspiration from the decadence and nostalgia of old Hollywood. This artistic vision translates into a video that not only accompanies the song but elevates it to new heights. While some may question Kim Kardashian's vocal abilities, her talent for marketing remains indisputable. In a world where social media dictates trends, Kardashian has masterfully leveraged her platform to make waves. Her ability to generate conversation is undeniable; every post she makes has the potential to go viral.

At the end of the video, a surprise adds a humorous and subversive touch, undoubtedly evoking elements of powerful pop culture: Macaulay Culkin, known for his role in "Home Alone," dressed as Santa Claus. His appearance is a nostalgic nod that connects generations and recalls cherished childhood moments. This detail reinforces the idea that Christmas music isn't just about melodies; it also evokes shared memories. "Santa Baby" won't become an enduring classic like "All I Want for Christmas Is You," but its visual and cultural impact is undeniable. We may not sing "Santa Baby" in future years, but the video will undoubtedly remain etched in our memories for a long time.