Adam Sandler’s enduring legacy on “Saturday Night Live” is well-remembered, especially around the holiday season with his celebrated performance of “The Chanukah Song.” Premiering thirty years ago on December 3, 1994, during a Weekend Update segment, Sandler co-crafted this comedic classic with writers Ian Maxtone-Graham and Lew Morton. In the song, Sandler humorously lamented the absence of songs celebrating the Jewish festival of lights, Chanukah. This whimsical take resonated with many and has since become a staple in holiday celebrations, bridging cultural divides while bringing laughter along the way.
Over the years, “The Chanukah Song” has evolved significantly. Sandler has released multiple versions — specifically four — each offering varying lyrics and rich cultural references. Despite the changes, the melody has remained timeless, capturing the hearts of audiences young and old. The song’s popularity paved the way for Sandler’s animated film “Eight Crazy Nights” in 2002, wherein a third part of the song featured a children’s choir cleverly named “The Drei-Dreis”, a nod to the popular Chanukah spinning toy known as a dreidel.
As the story unfolds, it turns out that three of the choir singers were none other than Sandler’s cousins – Jono Wagmeister, David Wagmeister, and Michael Wagmeister. They auditioned and were thrilled to be selected for this unique opportunity, marking a joyous moment in their lives. Jono, now 34, reminisced about the performances they did. Their first was a live concert alongside Adam Sandler where actor Rob Schneider also joined in. Following that initial success, the cousins recorded for the “Eight Crazy Nights” soundtrack in a music studio based in Hollywood.
Through their audition experience, the Wagmeister cousins described how Sandler’s team sought talent from Jewish synagogues in Los Angeles, aiming to recruit kids who had vocal experience. Singing within a youth group at University Synagogue, the chance to perform with such a prominent figure was exhilarating for them. David, 37, fondly recalled the camaraderie they shared while performing with Adam and other young Jewish singers, emphasizing the genuine friendship and supportive atmosphere created by Sandler.
Excitingly, the youngest cousin Michael was not initially eligible to audition due to his young age. However, he relentlessly pursued the opportunity to join, marching in after a little league practice in a Yankees jersey and cleats, capturing the attention of Sandler’s team. They welcomed him on the condition that he maintain that unmistakable look for the performance. Michael vividly remembers the concert where Sandler humorously pointed out his unique outfit, making the entire experience even more memorable.
These cherished memories surrounding “The Chanukah Song” not only live on in the Wagmeister family but also continue to resonate with Sandler and fans worldwide. Reflecting on the impact of the song, Sandler shared how it never fails to excite him even upon hearing it on the radio, illustrating its lasting popularity and significance.
Looking back, as we celebrate the three-decade-long journey of Sandler singing about “eight crazy nights,” it’s essential to acknowledge the nostalgia woven throughout “The Chanukah Song.” It serves as a joyful reminder of the beauty of multicultural festivities, deep-seated traditions, and the fun that comes from merging comedy with holiday cheer.
The lyrics encapsulate not just the celebratory spirit of Chanukah but also feature memorable lines that connect various pop culture references, showcasing celebrities and personalities from the Jewish community. The humor tied with a heartfelt message makes “The Chanukah Song” truly a “not too shabby” anthem for the holiday season, inviting everyone to gather around and celebrate with joy and laughter.