Bijou Belle Brings a Bittersweet Twist to the Holidays With ‘Christmas Is So Slow’

South Dakota-based alt-pop singer-songwriter Bijou Belle is closing out a milestone year with her holiday single, “Christmas Is So Slow,” bringing a little heartbreak to the most wonderful time of the year.

At just 17 years old, the Rapid City artist has already made her national television debut on NBC's The Voice as part of Team Adam, released her debut EP The RathCo, and continued building her identity as an independent artist.

Her latest release takes on a feeling that doesn't get nearly enough attention in holiday music: missing someone when everyone else seems to be celebrating.

While most Christmas songs focus on romance, presents, and picture-perfect celebrations, “Christmas Is So Slow” explores what happens when the one person you want beside you isn't there. Suddenly, the days feel longer, the excitement feels different, and December can't seem to move fast enough.

What we appreciate about Bijou Belle's approach is that she isn't trying to make another overly sentimental Christmas ballad. Instead, she brings an upbeat pop perspective to a genuinely relatable emotion, finding room for both nostalgia and optimism.

The release follows her September single “See You” and July's playful “Blind Crush,” demonstrating her willingness to explore different sides of her songwriting. Coming from a musical family, including grandfather Rocke Grace, who co-wrote “Rocky Mountain Way,” Belle has grown up around the craft. But what's becoming increasingly interesting is how she's developing her own artistic identity.

“‘Christmas Is So Slow’ is all about the magic of Christmas and missing the special people you wish you could spend it with. I wanted to make a fun, upbeat song that reminds everyone to enjoy the little moments, make memories, and find the joy in the holiday season!” Bijou Belle says.

“Christmas Is So Slow" is a reminder that the holidays aren't always perfect, and sometimes the people we're missing are the ones who make the season meaningful.