BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) It may be the day after Halloween, but the Christmas holiday season is here, if you listen to Star 102.5 FM. The station flipped the switch at midnight, kicking off the season of 24/7 Christmas music.
"Hallmark started their movies a week ago, and I couldn't find Halloween candy Saturday night. But I did find Christmas candy. So if Christmas candy is out, then we can do Christmas music the day after Halloween," said morning show host Rob Lucas.
The station flipped to the all Christmas format November 1st of last year as well. It has never made the change prior to November.
"It fits in nicely with election day (which is Tuesday)," said Lucas. Election day is one of the most uptight, angry days of the year. And we think Christmas music is 'comfort food' for your ears."
There are certain Christmas songs, that people say they hear way too much. And then other people will say they never hear that song. "That's something we have to balance over the next two months," said Lucas. Adding that novelty songs, like "I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas", and "Dominick the Donkey," won't be introduced just yet.
There are new Christmas songs from artists this year. "Kelly Clarkson has already released her Christmas album. One of the big hits that Star will be playing "Christmas isn't canceled, just you," said Lucas. "The Goo Goo Dolls put out a Christmas album last year. This year they're doing a re-mix of it, with three new songs added, including an uptempo song of "I've got my love to keep me warm." Lucas said it doesn't sound like the Goos, but you'll love it when you hear it.
Christmas music, as Lucas points out, is about memories. "It's all about storytelling. The songs you hear when you are 5, 6 or 7 years old, are the songs you love when you're 30 or 40. The songs remind you of family gatherings.
This is the 21st consecutive year that Star 102.5 is playing all Christmas music.
