JEFF CAPLAN'S MY MINUTE OF NEWS

Jeff Caplan’s Minute of News: The most dangerous Christmas songs for drivers

Dec 9, 2024, 9:30 PM

Editor’s note: This is an editorial piece. An editorial, like a news article, is based on fact but also shares opinions. The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and are not associated with our newsroom.

SALT LAKE CITY — You’re not going to like this, but listening to Christmas songs in the car can be dangerous.  The conclusion is based on the premise that drivers can get reckless when listening to fast tempo songs.  

The barometer is the Bee Gees.  This is 100 beats per minute. This song is recommended if you’re giving someone CPR because it’s the exact speed you should go when administering chest compressions. 

Ha HA HA HA stayin alive.  When they wrote it the Bee Gees had no idea it’d help people stay alive.

Faster now.  Lady Gaga rocks 120 beats per minute, which presents no danger, unless you lose your mind with the Ra ma ra ma ma ma.

But when the tempo’s any quicker you can experience psychological and cardiovascular effects.  And this Christmas I have to warn you about two songs that could leave you spinning out in the snow.   Yes, this one lures you in all slow and sweet and then, BAM. 

Mariah Carey is speeding at 150 beats for minute.  The researchers claim that when start singing along you might also start tailgating on ice. When you’re belting out the finish, you’re one break check away from flashing lights and tow trucks. 

But THE most dangerous Christmas song for drivers? Is a diabolical audio heart attack in the making.

The Chipmunk’s song is pedal to the metal  at 172 beats per minute.  If you hear that song come on, flipping to KSL for some news could save your life. Because Frosty the Snowman might melt your arteries and get you into a car crash.  And then they’ll have to administer CPR, like this.

Ha HA HA staying alive. 

Jeff Caplan is the host of Jeff Caplan’s Afternoon News on KSL NewsRadio. Follow him on Facebook and X. 

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Jeff Caplan’s Minute of News: The most dangerous Christmas songs for drivers