The holidays are about to get louder, brighter, and a lot more unapologetic. British rock star YUNGBLUD is taking over one of America’s most iconic holiday stages as he headlines this year’s “Christmas at Rockefeller Center” special on NBC. The two-hour broadcast, airing December 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, promises a night of raw emotion, high-energy performances, and a modern twist on the classics that have defined generations of holiday celebrations.
For the 28-year-old musician—born Dominic Harrison in Doncaster, England—this marks not just a career milestone, but a statement of how far the boundaries of rock and pop culture have stretched. YUNGBLUD, known for his explosive stage presence, genre-blurring sound, and outspoken advocacy for individuality, will bring his signature fusion of punk rock, pop, and vulnerability to one of television’s longest-running holiday traditions.
“Rock and roll has always been about hope and love,” YUNGBLUD said in a statement. “And that’s what Christmas is all about. It’s messy, it’s emotional, and it’s beautiful—just like music should be.”
A Punk Heart Meets Holiday Magic
The annual Christmas at Rockefeller Center special has long been synonymous with elegance and tradition, featuring the lighting of the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and performances by some of music’s biggest names. Over the decades, legends from Mariah Carey to Tony Bennett, Kelly Clarkson, and John Legend have graced the stage beneath the glowing lights of Midtown Manhattan.
This year, though, the tone is set to shift. YUNGBLUD’s appearance marks a refreshing crossover between classic holiday spirit and modern youth culture. His fans—who call themselves the Black Hearts Club—are known for their fierce loyalty and their shared belief in self-expression. Many see YUNGBLUD’s inclusion as a sign that the holiday special is opening its arms to a new generation.
Producers describe his upcoming performance as “the must-see moment of the year,” teasing a set list that includes emotional renditions of “Silent Night” and “O Holy Night,” along with electrified versions of tracks from his upcoming holiday album, “A Very YUNGBLUD Christmas.”
According to NBC insiders, YUNGBLUD plans to blend traditional orchestration with raw live instrumentation and unexpected collaborations. A spokesperson hinted at “a surprise duet” that could become one of the most talked-about moments of the season.
From Rebellion to Reverence
While his early career was defined by political lyrics and youthful rebellion, YUNGBLUD has always had an undercurrent of optimism running through his work. His decision to take on Christmas music might surprise some longtime fans, but those who have followed his evolution see it as a natural progression.
In recent interviews, the artist has spoken about wanting to explore themes of connection and healing through his music. “The world’s been through so much,” he told Rolling Stone earlier this year. “I just want people to feel something real again—to know they’re not alone, especially around the holidays.”
This emotional openness is a through line in YUNGBLUD’s career. From his self-titled 2022 album that topped charts in the U.K. to his global tours that turned concerts into safe spaces for misfits, his artistry has always celebrated the human spirit in all its chaos. By taking the stage at Rockefeller Center—a venue steeped in American tradition—he bridges the gap between rebellion and reverence, punk and peace on Earth.
A Star Among the Lights
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree itself remains the centerpiece of the night, towering nearly 80 feet tall and covered with more than 50,000 multicolored LED lights. Millions will tune in to watch the lighting ceremony, but it’s YUNGBLUD’s performance that producers believe will define the event for years to come.
A source close to the production shared that the singer’s set design will incorporate “elements of British punk culture with traditional holiday imagery.” Expect plaid backdrops, snow-covered amps, and even a few visual homages to YUNGBLUD’s late heroes like David Bowie and Freddie Mercury.
“It’s not about tearing down tradition,” the artist explained. “It’s about reimagining it. The holidays are about love—and love doesn’t look the same for everyone.”
A Global Celebration
NBC’s Christmas at Rockefeller Center is one of the most watched holiday specials in the world, drawing tens of millions of viewers across broadcast and streaming platforms. This year’s lineup will also feature performances from Alicia Keys, Noah Kahan, Olivia Rodrigo, and the legendary Stevie Wonder, rounding out a cross-generational mix that mirrors the spirit of inclusivity the show has come to represent.
The network’s executives hope that YUNGBLUD’s participation will attract younger audiences and international fans, many of whom discovered him through viral performances and his active social-media presence. On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where he commands millions of followers, clips of his rehearsals are already generating buzz.
A Season to Remember
As the countdown to December begins, excitement continues to build. YUNGBLUD’s upcoming album, “A Very YUNGBLUD Christmas,” drops on November 29, just days before the Rockefeller performance. The record is expected to feature a mix of original songs and holiday classics infused with his signature blend of grit and heart.
From anthems of youthful rebellion to soulful carols under New York’s city lights, YUNGBLUD’s holiday chapter may mark the start of a new era—not just for him, but for what it means to celebrate Christmas in the modern age.
In a world craving authenticity and connection, perhaps a punk poet in a red velvet jacket is exactly what the season needs.
