Halloween is over, and you know what that means—she’s defrosting. In due time, we’ll all be powerless to escape Mariah Carey’s ubiquitous Yuletide anthem, “All I Want For Christmas (Is You.”) The song has sold 16 million copies worldwide, with the Associated Press estimating $100 million in royalties as of 2023. But move over, Mariah—American Idol runner-up Will Moseley has tried his hand at the modern Christmas classic, and I’m genuinely shocked by how much I like it.
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Hear This ‘American Idol’ Runner-Up’s Take on This Mariah Carey Hit
In May 2023, Will Moseley graduated from Georgia Southern University with a degree in biology. From there, he had two choices—chase his dreams of becoming a musician or get a “real job.”
Moseley chose the former, winning American Idol viewers over with his rich baritone voice and bushy red beard. He made it all the way to finale night before ultimately finishing second behind season 22 winner Abi Carter. As a result, the Georgia-born singer-songwriter is well on his way to making music his “real job.” He has opened for the Zac Brown Band and teamed up with Idol season 21 finalist Colin Stough. Now, Moseley has released his Southern-fried spin on the Mariah Carey Christmas staple, “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”
“’All I Want for Christmas Is You’ is a song that has been a Christmas staple for most of my life,” the 24-year-old musician told Parade. “It’s a song that shows simplicity and how materialistic things do not always equal happiness.”
[RELATED: Watch ‘American Idol’ Runner-up Will Moseley Nail Cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car”]
“Mariah Carey Needs to See”
As someone born Nov. 1, I consider myself the final authority on the true beginning of Christmas season. And I say it’s my birthday. That’s good news for you, because it means you can start listening to Moseley’s latest song right now.
In the American Idol runner-up’s capable hands, “All I Want For Christmas Is You” becomes less a maximalist holiday fever dream and more of a plaintive rumination on life’s simplest pleasures. “lovvvve this!!!!” one Instagram user gushed. “@mariahcarey needs to seeeeee.”
Another fan chimed in, “Perfect Tree Decorating music!”
And if you need me, that’s where I’ll be. Decorating my Christmas tree and blasting Will Moseley’s latest release.
Featured photo via via Instagram
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