There’s a New, ‘Less-Offensive’ Version of ‘Baby, It’s Cold Outside’

Did 'Baby, It's Cold Outside' need to be re-written for modern times?

John Legend and Kelly Clarkson have recorded a new version of 'Baby, It's Cold Outside' in response to questions about whether the classic song contained controversial lyrics.

The song, traditionally played around Christmas, 'Baby It's Cold Outside' tells the story of a man and a woman, as the man tries to convince the woman to turn their date into an 'overnight stay'.

Critics say lyrics like,

“I simply must go (But baby it’s cold outside)

The answer is no (But baby it’s cold outside).”

and

“Say, what’s in this drink? (No cabs to be had out there),”

suggest that a woman's "no" is simply an indicator that she needs more convincing, rather than a wish that needs to be respecting, and of course, the lyric that suggests he may have slipped something into her drink is disturbing in modern times.

Others say the lyrics merely reflect the social moires in place at the time the song was written.

Take a look at the new, updated lyrics and let us know what you think:

[Verse 1: Kelly Clarkson & John Legend]
I really can't stay (Baby, it's cold outside)
I've got to go away (But, I can call you a ride)
This evening has been (I'm so glad you that you dropped in)
So very nice (Time spent with you is paradise)
My mom will start to worry (I'll call the car and tell him to hurry)
My daddy will be pacing the floor (Wait, what are you still livin' home for?)
So, really, I'd better scurry (Your driver, his name is Murray)
But maybe just a half a drink more (Oh, we're both adults, so who's keepin' score)
What will my friends think? (It's your body and your choice)
If I have one more drink? (It's your body and your choice)
Ooh you really know how (Your eyes are like starlight now)
To cast a spell (One look at you and then I fell)
I ought to say, "No, no, no, sir" (Then you really ought to go, go, go)
At least I'm gonna say that I tried (Well, Murray, he just pulled up outside)

[Chorus: Kelly Clarkson, John Legend & Both]
I really can't stay
(I understand, baby)
Baby, it's cold outside

[Verse 2: Kelly Clarkson & John Legend]
I simply should go (Text me when you get home)
The answer is no (Mm, I guess that's respectable)
This welcome has been (I've been lucky that you dropped in)
So nice and warm (But you better go before it storms)
My sister will be suspicious (Well, gosh your lips look delicious)
My brother will be there at the door (Oh, he loves my music, baby, I'm sure)
My gossipy neighbor's for sure (I'm a genie, tell me what your wish is)
But maybe just a cigarette more (Oh, that's somethin' we should probably explore)
I've got to get home (Oh, baby, I'm well aware)
Say, lend me a coat (Oh, keep it girl, I don't care)
You've really been grand (I feel good to touch me hands)
But don't you see? (I want you to stay, it's not up to me)
There's bound to be talk tomorrow (Well, they can talk, what do they know)
At least there will be plenty implied (Oh, let their mind do this, and-)
Ma'am, I really can't stay

Was this a needed change to the song, or an over-reaction to dated lyrics? Let us know what you think, email beth@lite987.com.