Luke Spiller delivers the Christmas song everyone needed (but didn't ask for)

Luke Spiller has enjoyed a year full of milestones. He reflects on his accomplishments both with his band, The Struts, who marked the 10-year anniversary of their debut album Everybody Wants with a major tour, and as a solo artist with his debut record Love Will Probably Kill Me Before Cigarettes and Wine. Spiller is closing out 2025 with a sold-out performance, An Evening With The Struts, at the Grammy Museum on December 8, along with a series of intimate solo shows at The Sun Rose in Los Angeles, all of which are also sold out.

As a fitting conclusion to the year, Spiller has released a dark, edgy rendition of Slades 1973 holiday hit, Merry Xmas Everybody. The Christmas song nobody asked for until they realized they needed it, he jokes, speaking a few days before the release. His reinterpretation is deliberate. While Slade enjoyed massive success in the U.K., their presence in the U.S. was limited, although Quiet Riot had hits covering Slades tracks.

By bringing this song to my U.S. audience, I wanted to introduce them to one of the greatest Christmas songs ever, Spiller explains. I made sure it fits into my solo world, which is why its not the typical upbeat rock version. His version almost strips away the traditional festive feel. The video, filmed at the iconic Los Angeles Riverthe same location featured in the famous drag race scene from Greaseavoids holiday clichs entirely. The only nod to Christmas is Spiller himself, riding a customized lowrider bicycle in a red velvet suit, Santa hat, and oversized red bow through the stark urban setting. Whats more Christmassy than a British guy in L.A. with fake snow? he laughs. Its playful and humorous.

Spillers upbeat energy is a welcome contrast to earlier in the year when he wasnt fully confident after pouring his soul into his solo work. Despite being dropped from his label shortly after completing Love Will Probably Kill Me Before Cigarettes and Wine, Spiller found validation on tour. Honestly, I had no idea what to expect, he says. My Spotify numbers are modest compared to The Struts, but every show had around 500 people, all singing every word. It was incredible and the first step toward growing this new side of my career.

This creative momentum has also strengthened his bond with The Struts. My writing process has improved, he shares. When Im in the mood for rock and roll, I wear my Struts hat. When Im more introspective, I now have a platform for those moods too. Its liberating creatively and has brought the band closer.

Looking ahead, Spiller plans to release two projects annually: one solo and one with The Struts. Nows the time to fully commit to it, he says. His passion and energy signal an exciting new chapter for both his solo career and the band.

Author: Harper Simmons