You know Christmas, it's
my favorite time of the year
And you know I'm rushing
home to see my man
on Christmas.
I'm gonna be there
for Christmas
Right next to
you on Christmas
I'm gonna be there
for Christmas
Just me and you on Christmas
And I'm never
gonna let you go
Christmas only comes
one time of the year
I'm gonna spend that
time with you, my dear
I can't wait to whisper
that I love you so
Underneath the mistletoe
Hey
I'm gonna be there
for Christmas
Just me and you
Just me and you
I'm gonna be there
For Christmas
I'm gonna be there with you
I'm gonna be there
for Christmas
Right next to you
Right next to
you on Christmas
I'm gonna be
I'm gonna be there
For Christmas
Yeah
Just me and you
Just me and you
for Christmas
I'm gonna be there
And I'm never
gonna let you go
Hey
I'm never gonna let you go
I'm never gonna let you go
Oo
Thank you.
- So, how you feeling?
- Yeah. I'm feeling good Zac.
You know, just give
it to me straight.
Tonight was good.
Yeah. But there's
something else.
Look as your label rep,
I probably shouldn't say.
But as my friend.
Okay, well the holiday
tour projections were off.
- By?
- 42%.
What the what?
Look, the tour could
have been better managed.
Oh. But Cardon
music is managing it.
Exactly. So I know.
Oh.
But it has to be something else.
Maybe it was tied up in
the last album sales.
Probably. And those
weren't exactly...
This isn't comforting, is it?
No, it's not. Not really.
Then you probably
also don't want to hear
what I just heard.
Gia Cole, what
are you doing here?
I'm a music biz journalist.
This is a concert.
You do the math.
No, I mean in the middle
of my conversation with Zac.
Well, fine.
Don't hear what I just heard.
What did you just hear?
Your label CEO just
changed the lineup
for Cardon Music's
Christmas party.
You're not headlining Now.
A call did come in from Rocky
while you were performing,
but no message.
So who's headlining?
Oshen.
She's a toddler. Rocky
replaced me with her?
She hasn't even sold one 1/10
the number of albums I have.
No, but she's
dating India Base
and he's got the
number one movie out
and they're seen
everywhere together.
That still doesn't
make her a better singer.
True. But it does get
her a lot of attention.
And you know how Rocky loves it
when Cardon Music
gets attention.
Their hashtag is IndiaOshen.
That's terrible.
Yeah. Terribly popular.
Look, Lissette, the point is,
she's playing the
game and you don't.
I shouldn't have to at
this point in my career.
My Lissette Live album
went double gold.
Earned two Grammys.
Yeah, but Matthew
produced that one.
I'm sorry, did I say
that name out loud?
What name?
No idea.
We good?
Always.
Good night.
It's all Christmas
with you, with you
Matthew Miles.
I'm impressed.
- Yeah?
- You still got it.
Ah, Teddy Glover's a legend.
He just needed someone
to believe in him again.
How are we gonna get
people to hear what you hear
and buy what we
need them to buy?
The music, it's
what's important.
Well, business is too.
We're not even nine months old
and we've already
signed three artists.
As your friend, I hear you.
But as your primary
investor, I worry.
You always worry, Pete.
Well now I worry
with dollar signs.
No, good music
brings the people.
PR helps them find a way.
Look, you got many talents,
but you're stubborn when it
comes to doing what's needed
to get people to pay attention.
And the world's
only getting louder.
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
You okay?
I'm good. I'm good.
Back's just acting up a little.
We're still here
It's all Christmas with you
All the time, time, time
Yeah? Yeah, yeah?
You feeling it?
- I'm feeling it.
- Hey mama.
- There's my baby.
How'd last night go?
- Good.
- What's wrong?
Nothing. I just
got a lot on my mind.
You're still coming home
for Christmas, aren't you?
It's-
- In a week. Yes, I know.
And yes, I'll be
home in two days.
Just making sure.
Since you canceled at
the last minute last year
and you didn't even try to
come home the year before that.
I won't miss this
year, Mama, I promise.
Good. Because your sister
and your brother miss you
as as much as I do.
And your father does too.
Even though he hasn't
said a word about it yet?
I know what he's thinking.
One of the many benefits
of being married
for as long as we've been.
Well, I'll take
your word on that.
You know, if you wanted to
bring someone home, you could.
And have daddy tell
me he's only after me
for my fame and fortune?
Nuh uh. Been there, done that.
And besides Mama,
there's no one to bring.
Well, what about the man
you hinted at last Christmas?
I never said there was
someone last Christmas.
No, but I could tell.
A mother senses these things.
Yeah, well the only
thing I'll be bringing home
will be myself and lots
of presents for my family.
All right, Mom, I gotta go.
I'll call you later. Okay?
Love you. Bye.
Mwah.
Let me guess she's not coming.
Well, you guess
wrong, my dear.
We're gonna have all our
babies home this Christmas.
- Did you tell her?
- Not yet.
Wait until she gets back here.
Hey, how you doing?
Sweet.
Oh yeah, these ones.
Hey, Lissette.
Oh no.
Where did that?
Ow.
Liz.
Matthew? What are you doing?
I thought I was returning a
ring to a lady who dropped it,
but my back seized up.
Your back only seizes
when you're stressed.
Funny how you remember that.
I also remember
how it locked up
when you were
breaking up with me.
And somehow this moment
gets even more awkward.
I don't think it's awkward.
- Just me then?
- Just you.
Don't suppose you want this.
Rings from you. Definitely
lost their appeal.
Fair enough.
Oh, thank you.
Ow.
Hey, so what are you doing here?
It's a Christmas market.
Seven days before
Christmas, I'm shopping.
Same.
Oh, let me guess.
Final albums of
obscure jazz artists.
Not obscure, underappreciated.
Uh huh.
So who are you shopping for?
My family.
I'm finally going
home for Christmas
since I haven't been there
in the the past two years.
You didn't go back last year?
Well, I wasn't in the mood.
Well, I'd tell you
to say hello for me,
but you didn't introduce us
despite us dating for two years.
Good, huh?
'Cause you're not the
sticking around kind of guy.
I think I stuck around
longer than most guys,
given the fact that you
basically kept me a secret.
Oh no.
I chose not to do
the introductions.
Not really.
You know, Matthew,
I'm so glad the fates allowed
us to come back together
to remind me of why we
parted last December.
- Hey Liz, I-
- And now
I have to get ready for
Cardon Music's Christmas party
tomorrow and catch a flight.
I hope your back feels better.
Merry Christmas, Matthew.
Well, well.
Hmm
It don't matter where
you're coming from
It's that time of
year to have someone
To hold you tight
on Christmas night
Yeah, yeah
- Thank you.
Oo, when I look
outside my window
So you saw Matthew,
the Matthew I'm not supposed
to remember, Matthew?
The very one.
Still cute?
So cute. But
nothing's changed.
Of course. Who are
we even talking about?
Rocky! Hi.
Did the CEO of my record label
just wave to me and
talked to the toddler?
Zac, you're on the inside.
Tell me what it is.
Am I alright?
Well, next year's
holiday tour is out.
I've done that
tour for 15 years.
And I can't confirm
whether or not
he's gonna renew the option
for your next project.
It's the game she's playing.
The one I don't want to.
You again.
Now, why are you always
so disappointed to see me?
Experience.
Is this about the
Darren Fontano story?
Because that was ages ago.
We're both New Orleans girls.
You think you'd want
me on your side.
Gia, I know you are an
impressive musical journalist,
but can we please give
Lissette a break for Christmas?
Okay, but how about a response
to the story I just broke.
What story?
About your engagement!
- Oh no.
- Lissette, did he propose?
No.
That looks like a proposal.
It wasn't.
- Are you sure?
- Yes.
Oh.
- You think she knows?
My sister is texting
me and my brother.
And social is blowing up.
Over 50,000 likes
in over an hour.
And it's not even on your page.
Liss-Mat?
It's your couple
hashtag like Giz-Mat.
You are trending.
Seriously?
Is Oshen trending?
Nope.
This is good for you.
What do you think?
Should we call Matthew?
Give him a heads up?
No, I'll text him
tomorrow after the party.
When it comes to
music, he's a wizard,
but when it comes to PR,
he makes me look
like the Kardashians.
Let's milk this
moment and mingle.
Yes.
Matthew Miles.
How does it feel to be
marrying Lissette Toussaint?
What?
Are you gonna
work together again?
Lissette Live is a
Christmas classic.
Uh, I, I, I-
Are you joining
her for Christmas?
No comment.
Alright. Happy
holidays, Matthew.
Jazz great Abner
Toussaint takes final bow
with Christmas Eve performance
featuring superstar
daughter, Lissette?
Renowned music journalist
Gia Cole to have
family interview exclusive
for "New York Times"!
Mom, I have so many questions.
That makes two of us.
Dad's closing the club?
You're engaged!
And you're doing a major
interview with Gia Cole?
Who's Matthew Miles?
Mom, I can't stand Gia Cole.
Why? She's a New
Orleans success story,
just like you.
- Don't compare us.
I've read quite a few of her
articles in "Rolling Stone"
and "Pitch Four" and
watched her interviews.
You know her mother Muriel,
she goes to our church.
Can we refocus please, Mom?
Dad's closing the club?
After one last show.
All his friends will be there.
I mentioned it to
Gia when she called.
She called? Gia called?
When?
- Last night.
She wanted a quote
about your engagement.
I tried your phone but
you didn't pick up.
Oh, I'm sorry.
So I made a decision.
As the one who was
your father's publicist
for over 30 years,
I know an opportunity
when I see one.
And this interview will
be a wonderful testament
to the music of Abner
Toussaint and our club.
With a concert
on Christmas Eve
that I'm apparently a part of.
Don't you wanna be?
Well, of course,
Mom, I wanna be there.
I'm just shocked by it all.
I mean, I'm shocked
by a lot of things.
Oh, so was I when I
found out you were engaged.
Hey mom, that might be Zac.
Hold on.
Coming.
Hi honey.
Thought I'd bring morning
coffee for my lovely fiance.
Hello, Matthew?
Oh, you're on the phone.
With my mother.
Oh, hello ma'am.
What a curious way to
meet my daughter's fiance.
Oh no.
I'm so sorry.
Well, you can ask Lis,
I've always wanted
to meet her family.
We need to go, Mom.
It didn't stop
you from proposing.
I'm confident there's a
longer story to be told here.
One I'll explain later.
Alright-
- But first, Matthew,
I expect to see you at
our house for Christmas.
Mama!
- You will?
- Good.
Abner and I will be pleased
to finally meet you in person.
Okay, love you Mom. Bye.
What? What just happened?
Well, basically you committed
to being my fake
fiance for Christmas.
I did?
Does one have
peppermint and green?
Thank you. Come on.
We have much to discuss.
Um...
- Alright. Alright.
So we're gonna call
your mother back
and explain everything, right?
You're gonna call your mom back
and explain
everything, aren't you?
That seems like the
logical thing to do.
I'm hearing a but.
But Gia Cole is
doing a huge article
celebrating my dad
in "New York Times"
with video featurettes.
That's great.
And she's gonna
expect the whole family.
Okay.
Which expectation-wise
now includes you.
What? But I'm not, we,
we, we're not engaged.
Well, maybe next time don't
tell my mother that we are.
I was just playing along.
I didn't know what was happening
and then she looked
at me with such...
It was like a tractor beam.
I would've done
anything she said.
Matthew, I'm sorry
I didn't tell you
about the article earlier.
That probably would've helped.
- A little bit.
- Yeah.
And what are we gonna do?
Well, knowing my mother,
she's told everyone in our
family that you're coming
and they've told
people who told people.
Look, we need to just
tell 'em the truth.
They'll understand.
It's too late to
close those barn doors.
The reindeer are
out in the field.
I could not go,
stay here in LA.
Do you have plans
for Christmas?
Not really.
Parker invited me to Christmas
dinner with his family.
So I'm not such an orphan
over the holidays, you know.
Or you can come with
me to New Orleans,
which we both know you've
always wanted to go.
And I quote, "Do it right."
We ride this thing through
and then Miss Fancy Gia Cole-
Makes you crazy.
Won't think that we
did this for publicity.
You for your label
and me with mine.
Are you having problems
with Cardon Music?
Nothing you
should worry about.
I'm not so sure
about this, Lis.
Neither am I.
But in the 24 hours
the story's been out,
my streams and my
interactions have tripled.
I'm not gonna lie,
Bend Records' mentions
gone up quite a bit too.
Parker's stoked.
Oh, I bet.
Listen, Matthew, I'm afraid too.
But if we tell people the truth,
they'll think we did
this for attention.
Definitely don't want that.
I know. Authenticity's
your brand.
Alright, so what
are you suggesting?
Well, we keep it
going through Christmas,
politely we separate and promise
to always remain friends.
You think you can do that?
Listen, normally I would
say, let's fix this now,
but it might impact
my father's concert
and his interview that
I'm now a part of.
And I don't wanna mess it all
up and all attention's on me.
And it shouldn't be.
Alright, just
through the holidays.
Then we break up, again.
Okay.
Thank you.
What?
I always did
wanna meet your dad.
Careful
what you wish for.
Wow, I underestimated
this Liss-Mat hashtag.
It's everywhere and my
streams are smoking.
Hey, we gotta get
our story straight.
Okay.
One, we don't live together.
My father wouldn't go for that.
That's easy.
'Cause we never have.
Zac got us two rooms
at the Winston Hotel.
You do your best not
to talk too much.
Then we go back to
our respective rooms.
Cool?
Don't worry,
I'm not gonna say or do anything
that'll make you look bad.
Wait, wait, wait, wait.
I almost forgot something.
That's beautiful, Matthew.
Where did you get it from?
I'm gonna let you come up
with that part of the story.
Now it's official.
Let the show begin.
I can't believe I'm listening
to Abner Toussaint play.
That was perfect, Dad.
Perfection doesn't mean right.
It's all about the feel.
Chemistry is ev-
- Everything!
Oh, she made it.
Abner, our baby is home.
She's here!
- Is this real?
- Yes, it's real.
I like him already.
Keith!
- Noted dear.
Pleasure to finally meet
you in person, Mrs. Toussaint.
Indeed. Well you're
taller than I expected.
Hold up, you got
some explaining to do.
- Clay.
- No, no, no, no, no, no.
My dad asked my
grandfather for permission
before marrying my mom.
Bob did the same for Taborah.
Yet here's my sister with
big old rock on her finger.
And we're just meeting you?
That was my doing.
You afraid it would
scare him away?
If Bob can
handle it and anybody can.
Don't be
rude about my husband.
- Just saying.
- But Clay does have a point.
Unless she's ashamed of him.
Mm.
They're just messing with you.
Gotta do a little hazing, man.
I'm an only child.
So this is gonna be a
learning experience.
Hey, no, seriously though.
You did a great job producing
Lissette's Live album.
Classic.
- Thank you, man.
But wish you could have
worked on her most recent one.
What?
Her last album had
more writers than songs.
And none of 'em got her style.
Okay are we done
talking about me
as if I'm not
standing right here.
Hey Daddy.
So you did make
it home after all.
I did.
Time is it?
I know I missed rehearsal,
but it won't happen again.
Matthew Miles, sir.
I'm a huge fan.
Huge fan?
You managed to date my
daughter and get engaged
without trying to
meet any of us.
But
we're here now, Dad.
Is this part of the hazing?
You are here now.
The rehearsal's over.
Well, let's go home
and have some dinner.
Huh? Come on.
You remember the way?
I have a GPS.
Hi Bob.
- You okay?
- I'm fine.
You?
I think it's gonna be a
really interesting Christmas.
Amen.
Why didn't anyone tell me
about the closing of the club?
It's not like we don't talk.
I personally still don't
believe it's happening.
Mama was gonna tell
you when you got back.
But then Gia Cole started
calling, asking questions.
And then Mama sees the moment.
Well have either one of you
tried to talk Dad out
of closing the club.
Have you ever tried to talk
Dad outta doing anything?
Fair point.
But why aren't you
taking it over?
- Over there?
- Yeah, yeah.
Mark my words.
There's something
fishy with those two.
I can sense it.
You are always paranoid
about who our children date.
Have I ever been wrong?
No, but I don't think Lissette
appreciates your insights
as much as you think she does.
Can't help what I see and
right now something seems off.
Be nice to him and Lissette.
I'm nice to Lissette.
Except when it comes
to men and music.
I'm honest about both.
Lissette is too talented to
be singing these pop songs
about Lord knows what.
She's here to
celebrate Christmas.
And you remember that.
Especially when
Gia Cole is around.
Hey.
So what's the deal
with the three trees?
Oh, our family has had
many interesting traditions
over the holidays.
- This is one of 'em.
And Mama's Christmas
fruitcake is another.
Is someone talking
about my fruitcake?
I thought we weren't
doing this anymore.
What a treat.
I love fruitcake.
I'm so glad to
hear you say that.
My children don't quite
appreciate my fruitcake.
Oh, it looks wonderful.
Matthew.
- What?
- Nuh uh, uh-uh.
Amazing.
I'm so glad you like it.
Sometimes my children think I
put a bit too much rum in it.
- And brandy.
- And port.
And bitters.
But I know most of that
just bakes right off.
So I always add a little extra.
So you get the full flavor.
And it's all just
like right there.
Good, isn't it?
Would anyone
else like a slice?
- Mm, no.
- No, no, no.
Nuh uh, absolutely not.
This is good.
Whoa.
Hey, that's us!
Oh, my family
is something else.
So, how are you feeling?
Whew, I'm okay.
Well this cool air will help.
- Mm.
- Isn't that nice?
What?
You may have to
drive us to the hotel.
It was that third slice
that got ya
Mama is an amazing cook.
But listen, when it
comes to her fruitcake,
she has a blind spot.
When we were little, we would
hide pieces in the plants
until they started to die off.
Oh.
- Oh man.
Yeah, that sounds
oddly endearing to me.
Oh yeah, that's
the rum talking.
Probably.
Those are kind of stories
I didn't get growing up.
Big family stories.
Now with just me and
My grandma back there.
And she definitely kept her
Christmas baking alcohol free.
Say cheese.
What
are you doing here?
There's that greeting again.
Because there you are again.
I was at my momma's
when your mom called,
asked if I wanted to come by
for some of her fruitcake.
I figured we could talk
about the interview too.
And bonus, I get Matthew
Miles of Bend Records.
Hello, Ms. Cole.
Now that does not look like
the same ring in the photo.
Oh, well that ring was just
a, a spontaneous proposal.
And this is a family heirloom.
Well, well, it's all great
stuff for the interview.
Matthew, would you mind
going inside for a moment?
I would like to
speak to Ms. Cole.
Oh, sure.
I would like to make
one thing very clear.
This is a family
interview. Okay?
You're here to
interview my family
about my father's retirement
and the closing of the club.
I already know all that.
You're not here for
some negative scoop
or gotcha or painful revelation.
You hear me?
Is this about Darren?
No, we're talking about
the nature of your presence
in my family's home
over Christmas.
You can come after
me all you want,
but leave them outta
any of your shenanigans.
I did not come
looking for a story.
It happened organically
when I spoke with your mom.
The public loves the
Toussaints, they always have.
I am just, I'm just
following the story.
See Gia, when you
speak like that,
I almost believe that you're
not biased against me.
I'm just doing my job.
Now, can I go get some of
your mom's fruitcake, hmm?
Oh, by all means, please.
Have two slices.
I do have one question though.
When did you and Matthew
get back together?
Because rumor has it
that the two of you
broke up right before
last Christmas.
Now Gia, you know better
than to believe rumors.
Actually, that's where most
of my best tips come from.
Like rumor has it that Oshen
is getting the resources
for her tour next year
because Cardon Music
is canceling yours.
You care to comment?
No?
Maybe later.
Merry Christmas, Lissette.
Hey. Everything okay?
Peachy.
Uh, I hope you were
okay with the hand holding
and kiss earlier.
We didn't clear
that ahead of time.
Oh no, no, it was great.
We really sold it
to our audience.
She always did get to you,
but you'd never tell me why.
Don't ask me.
She's the one who always seems
to have a problem with me.
I'm an angel.
Should we go check
into our hotel rooms?
Hotel rooms?
You got more than one.
Lissette thinks she's all fancy.
Go herself more than one
room at the Wilson Hotel.
A hotel?
Mm-hmm, they're not
staying at the house.
We didn't wanna impose, Dad.
Taborah and Bob
are staying here.
Because their house
is being remodeled.
And Clay here is
never gonna leave.
Hey, I pay rent.
Okay. Sort of.
Mind your business.
You and Matthew both are
staying here and that's final.
But what about your rule
that unmarried couples
can't stay together?
Oh it applies.
You'll stay in your
room and you sir,
will stay in the guest room.
Fine.
But we need to
swing by the hotel.
The airline lost our luggage
and brought it there.
Well, don't forget,
doors close at 11.
Sharp.
You don't wanna
get caught outside.
The airline didn't
lose our bags.
I know, but when
we were dating,
how many times did you mention
when you'd go to New Orleans
for business that you never
really got to see the city?
- A lot.
- A lot.
It's less than three days before
the Christmas Eve concert.
And if I know my family, there
won't be a moment to spare.
So if you wanna see Christmas
in the Crescent City,
it's now or never.
Let's go.
Oh, look at that over there.
Isn't it great?
So beautiful.
So nice.
You know, city park's,
it's another one of
my favorite places.
Especially at Christmas.
Huh. I can see why.
You know, some of the
trees are over 800 years old
and this place was made into
a park in the late 1800s.
It's practically
the city's heart.
What?
Let's sit.
You, you get this glow about you
when you talk about New
Orleans, you always did.
Well, it's my hometown.
There's no city in
the world like it.
And why do you
stay away so long?
And not just the two
years we were together,
before that two year
trips were always quick.
Well, New Orleans
holds a lot of memories.
Good and bad.
Any of 'em have
to do with Gia?
No.
She was mostly the person
that revealed my misfortune.
Not the source.
That belonged to Darren.
Ah, Darren the ex that you
never wanted to talk about.
I figured you'd Googled
some of Gia's old articles
about he and I.
Thought about it.
But I'd rather you
told me yourself.
You wanna tell me now?
Well, it's not
that big of a deal.
And he's more of a lesson.
We all have those.
Well, I, I met him at
the beginning of my career.
It really started to take off.
He was a record producer,
told me everything
I wanted to hear,
and I ignored all the red flags.
Until one day Gia
Cole wrote an article
about how all those
red flags are real.
He used me for my connections.
Made me feel naive.
It made you cautious.
Cautious. Embarrassed.
Why embarrassed?
'Cause my father
warned me about him.
He took one look at Darren
and said "He's a user."
I see.
And I didn't, until
it was too late.
I haven't trusted myself
about relationships since.
Well, thank you for finally
telling me the whole story.
Shall we?
- Yeah.
Post Katrina this area
became even more popular.
It's magical this
time of the year.
One of my favorite
places in the world.
I dig the energy.
Mm.
Oh, the um.
Sorry about that. Habit.
It's all good.
It's
really nice, right?
What
a gorgeous night.
Wow.
We should start
heading back soon.
Thank you for showing
me around your city.
Yeah, of course.
We wish you were
Merry Christmas
We wish you a
Merry Christmas
We wish you a Merry Christmas
and a happy New Year
Good tiding-
- Go on.
No, no.
You know you want to.
My voice isn't
even warmed up yet.
You're at your best when
you sing what you love.
You do love Christmas.
Oh, you're good, Matthew.
So good.
Oh my
gosh, look who it is.
- Wow.
- Check it out.
Look, look, look.
- Hi.
- Hey, hey.
Is she gonna sing?
- Hi.
- I'm so excited.
Her voice is amazing.
I love her.
Dude, you have
to record this to.
Joy to the world
The Lord is come
Let Earth receive her king
Let every heart
Prepare him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and heaven
And nature sing
Yes!
Praise God.
So good.
Sounded great.
Amazing, thank you.
She's good, huh?
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas to you.
Merry Christmas.
That was the best audience
I've had in a long time.
Well, maybe next year's tour
should be all Christmas carols.
Hmm. Unlikely.
There won't be a
tour of any kind.
I heard what Gia
said about Oshen.
So it's true?
Unfortunately.
Then Cardon Music's crazy.
You're easily the best
artist on their roster.
They should be bending over
backwards to appreciate you
instead of sending producers
who cover your voice up
with distractions
and promote singers
with more followers and talent.
Goodness.
Oh man.
Oh Matthew, we gotta go.
We gotta go.
- Okay. Okay.
Oh, let's try the mud room.
This 11:00 p.m.
thing is serious.
Dad's rule about coming in
after 11:00 p.m. is sacrosanct.
Why don't we just-
No shh.
Why don't we just
go check into a hotel?
'Cause I canceled it
when we agreed to stay.
Plus I promised.
I'm pretty sure that
only works in the movies.
Will you...
What are you two doing?
- Sissy!
- How did I time travel
back to your senior
year in high school
when you got locked
out after curfew?
Now what do we have here?
Uh, I got hungry.
And you decided
to bake Christmas cookies
around midnight.
Mm hmm.
Isn't it your third dessert?
Yeah.
This looks good.
Are you?
Shh, shh, shh!
Don't you say anything,
either of you.
I'm waiting 'til after the
concert to share the news.
But, yes!
Sorry.
Why are you apologizing
for hugging your fiance?
In case this is against
one of the Toussaint's
house rules.
Oh.
Well I'm gonna head to bed
and let the sisters talk it out.
Congratulations.
Thank you.
Mom left you a blanket and
pillow in the guest room.
Oh no.
Bob's staying in the guest room.
No, I love my husband,
but every time we come
here to stay at Christmas,
it's like sharing a
room with a chainsaw.
I'm sure it'll be fine.
Oh.
- Night.
- Night.
Come on girl. Sit down.
Sit down.
I am so excited for
the both of you.
Thank you.
That's actually part of the
reason why the club is closing.
- Huh?
- Not like that.
Dad doesn't know.
Even if he did,
he wouldn't think
I can't run the club
'cause I'm a mom.
'Cause you're a
great business woman
and you get it from Mom.
And Clay has dad's music gene,
but he doesn't like
the business side.
I can't do it all by myself.
Well what about me?
Oh, you have your own
career to think about,
as you should.
You know I love being
Lissette's little sister.
Some things just end.
And that's okay.
With every ending there's
a new beginning, right?
Right!
I'm so excited.
Rocky? Hey!
Yeah, you're gonna wanna
see what I just sent you.
With Lissette and
that many views.
I'm telling you boss,
folks are invested.
That's Teddy Glover.
Live at the Saville.
I was there when
he recorded this.
Now he's with Bend Records.
I do know how to
use the internet.
Yes sir.
Teddy's one of the first
artists I went after to sign.
Why?
Because he's a legend and
his label's treating him
like yesterday's news.
I don't know, it's just,
I feel like when an artist
doesn't have to worry about
the business of making music
and they could just make the
music, they're at their best.
I'll tell you,
I've shared the stage
with several jazz legends.
I'll tell you,
there's nothing like
going out in front of a crowd
with your own flesh and blood.
I can only imagine.
I get goosebumps when I
watch Lissette perform.
I mean last night when she
was singing Christmas carols-
Lissette sang
Christmas carols?
Oh, it was something.
I mean she is something.
I bet the two of you
together, it's magic.
When was the last time
you performed together?
It's been a long time.
Hey Matthew, I've brought.
Hey Dad, I brought your bag.
So, everything okay?
Fine.
Where are Taborah and Bob?
Oh, they went out earlier,
Mom, to run an errand.
Why?
Well, Ida Smith over the
community center just called,
the gentleman she had
lined up to play Santa,
came down with the cold.
And they're desperately
looking for someone
to get in before the
kids arrive in an hour.
Do not look at me.
They need someone
younger and stronger.
Can Clay step in?
They need
someone responsible.
Matthew, what size
coat do you wear?
46 tall.
h* h* h*.
Oh.
We got ya.
Ah! It fits.
And surprisingly comfy.
You look great.
They asked me if I wanted
to join and how can I refuse?
Alright, well just don't
do go try and stealing
my Santa fun now.
- Okay!
- Oh, h* h*.
Merry Christmas!
How you guys doing today?
Yeah?
Wake up sleepy Santa.
Ah, that sounds like the
title to a new Christmas song.
Oh, you should write it.
Hey, how's your back?
Hmm! Surprisingly
good considering I had
a thousand kids
climbing all over me.
Well, he couldn't have
been much better than you,
'cause you were outstanding.
Well, couldn't have done
it without you, Mrs. Claus.
Well, I'm here to tell you,
you're officially
off the Santa clock.
Whoo hoo!
So is every day being
fake engaged to you
gonna be this exciting?
Shh.
Let's go.
- Let's go.
Oh!
Merry Christmas.
And then you
should have saw it.
He had the Santa suit on
and the kids loved it.
Well, I am glad
I wasn't around
for Mama to rope me into that.
Where were you?
I was out checking out
bands, looking for drummers.
You know, gonna
need a new gig soon.
Don't you wanna try
to take over All Saints?
Be a great launching
pad for your career.
I'm okay.
Nothing like Dad though.
Abner Toussaint has been
the big draw these years.
Not me.
Clay, I think you're
selling yourself too short.
Nah, sissy.
Besides, running a
club isn't my thing.
Now making music,
that's my thing.
I'm not good at all
that business stuff.
Not like you or
Taborah or Matthew.
Matthew?
Yeah, he produced
your best album
and now he's running
Bend Records?
I mean it's small, sure.
But the website's
already showing
a bunch of crazy good artists
have already signed on.
That's true.
Well, talent's gonna
go where it feels valued.
And if I could do that,
maybe I can contribute
to All Saints.
You're the talent, Clay.
You're the best
drummer in the parish.
Now I know you've been eating
more for Mama's fruitcake.
No, I'm serious.
Do you think Dad would
let you play with him
if he thought you
were just okay?
Or just because you're his kid?
You're there because
you have real talent.
I'm going to the club.
I wanna go with you too, Dad.
Just gonna check
on some things.
Oh, it's okay.
It's still early.
We still have time
for rehearsal, right?
Yeah, alright.
- Yeah?
- Yeah.
Another year of many changes
Another new beginning
Great
What are the rules?
So, sorry, I...
Might as well take it.
We'll break here.
- Okay.
Sorry.
Hello?
So far so good, huh?
Ah, there's still some rust.
I do know how to sing.
I know.
Say it Dad.
Whatever it is
you're not saying.
You're a wonderful singer.
And?
And I'm not sure
about the direction
you've been going
with it lately.
Hmm. Get in line.
What does that mean?
It was the label that
wanted me to go pop.
They said it would
have crossover appeal.
It didn't work.
Now I'm the one paying for it.
You have some
say in your music.
Not as much as you think, Dad.
They're canceling my
tour and maybe me.
Then they're fools.
You and Matthew
sound so much alike.
What you gonna do?
I'm not sure.
There's so much more that
comes with making music
than making the music,
now more than ever.
Sounds like you've got
some changes on the horizon.
Like father, like daughter.
Dad, what made you wanna retire?
You remember Buddy Daniels?
Yeah, saxophonist.
He passed last year,
10 years younger than me.
Got me thinking, got
your mother thinking.
I love this place.
But there's other things
out there in the world.
Might be time to check 'em out.
Dad, I can't imagine this
place belonging to anyone else.
I just can't imagine it.
Sorry. Sorry.
From the top again.
All good now.
Let's do this.
Alright, let's do it.
Now here we go.
Hello?
Sorry man.
Thought you'd be up.
I went to bed really
early yesterday.
I was playing Santa Claus
with a bunch of kids.
- I saw.
- You saw.
I've been
following the hashtag
ever since the story broke.
You and Lissette are engaged?
That seems sudden being
that you were single
the last time we spoke.
Do you wanna explain?
Like I said before,
it's a longer story.
I'll explain later.
I'll hold you to that.
But that's quite the
catch for you and for us.
For us?
Well you get an amazing woman
and Bend Records gets one
of the best singers around.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.
No way to break
through the noise.
Parker, that's not
what this is about.
I love Lissette.
I know, I know.
But a little bonus business
doesn't exactly hurt.
Parker, listen you got...
Hey Parker, I'm gonna have
to call you back, alright?
- Morning.
- Good morning.
Interesting outfit you
have on there, sir.
I'm going to cut down
the fourth Christmas tree.
It's a family tradition.
As kids, we couldn't agree
on how our Christmas
tree should be decorated.
So dad got us each a tree.
Ah, that explains
the three trees.
Yeah, we decorate the
fourth tree on Christmas Eve.
Yeah, but this year
we're doing it a day early
because tomorrow's the concert.
Alright, so y'all
just gonna relax
before this
afternoon's rehearsal?
- No.
- Relax? No.
I told you the
Toussaints don't waste
any days before Christmas.
He said relax.
- Who's gonna relax?
Like,
who does that?
Ask him.
That's your man.
Look,
you know what?
No moss growing on the
Toussaints, that's for sure.
There's no greater gift
than that of giving of
one's time and energy
to help others without
expecting anything in return.
Nelson Mandela.
Ah.
Yeah. I mean, he didn't
mean that for Christmas,
but it's something I think
about during this time of year.
You know, when we sort of
put our differences aside
and give back.
That's what makes the
holidays so special.
Amen.
Alright, I'll take this on out.
Thanks.
Merry Christmas Ora.
Oh, Merry Christmas, Muriel.
I just wanna thank you
for helping bring my baby
home to New Orleans
for the holidays.
She's always so busy with work.
My Lissette is the same way.
Well, you know,
that's not the only thing
they have in common.
Mama!
What else do we
have in common?
You both tried
out for Cinderella
at the Magnolia Theater Company.
- We did?
- I remember.
Gia was just a
junior in high school.
You don't remember?
Oh, I was 18 when
I got that role.
Yeah. I've been performing
a lot, since and before.
Right, I mean, why would
you remember something
so insignificant as who you
beat out for a major part.
Gia, we went to
different high schools.
We didn't know each other.
Heck, I didn't know
you could sing at all.
Actually, I
don't sing anymore.
I realized I was better at
telling stories about music
than creating it.
But you still hold a
little bit of resentment
for me for getting Cinderella.
- No.
- Come on.
No.
So you're saying there's
not a bit of extra,
in your articles about me?
Of course not.
Look me in my eye and say it.
Remember it's Christmas.
Okay, maybe there's
a little resentment.
I knew it!
We're from the same place.
Everyone always knew who
you were, even back then.
And of course you would turn
out to be this big huge star
while I'm just a...
You're one of the most
successful music journalists
in the country.
You really think that?
Why do you think you bug me
every time you put that
in the articles about me.
I'm sorry.
Thank you.
We don't have to hug, do we?
Absolutely not.
Why don't we just pack?
You're something.
We got the tomatoes.
Where's Bob and Matthew?
I'm gonna need their help
gettin' the tree in the house.
Oh, they're actually in
the back loading the van.
Oh, why can't I help?
We have a
performance tomorrow.
Can't risk getting you hurt.
I'm not complaining.
Wow. You did this whole
thing on purpose, didn't you?
Whatever do you mean?
Admit it Mom, setting
up the interview with Gia.
This wasn't only about
Dad's PR, was it?
Honey, if I as your mother
and a woman with 30
years PR experience,
notice a pattern that Gia's
articles about you were,
shall we say,
harsher than average,
it might occur to me to seize
the opportunity to fix things.
That's a whole lot
of words to say yes.
Well, Muriel saw it too.
So we took advantage when
the opportunity arose.
Well, thank you for
having my back, Mom.
Always.
Speaking of PR.
Uh-oh.
Why aren't there any
photos of you and Matthew
on the internet
before the proposal?
We were being private.
Okay, but why didn't you
ever tell us about him before?
You specifically said
you didn't have anyone
you wanted to bring home.
I, I know, I just
wanted to make sure
he wasn't another Darren.
Oh, honey, he's not.
We can tell.
Well, how though?
I was crazy about Darren
and I missed the warnings.
I didn't want that with Matthew.
So you kept him a secret.
Well, I'm glad you decided
to finally share him with us.
I think he'll be a fine
addition to the family.
Hey, I know I keep quiet,
but I just wanted to say
thank you for keeping quiet
about, you know.
Sure secret's a secret.
Secrets are hard to keep.
You hear me.
Why do he say it like that?
Like what?
Like you're thinking
about another secret.
What kind of other secret
would I be thinking
about, Matthew?
See, there you go again.
What secret are
you thinking about?
About uh, Taborah
being pregnant?
Taborah's pregnant?
Now see, this is
why I don't talk.
You and Lissette get
the fourth Christmas tree
into the house.
Goodbye.
Bob and I are gonna
have the father talk.
Bob.
Bob!
Robert.
Robert.
- Yeah?
- You like Robert better?
- Yeah.
The look on his face.
Oh, great job, blabber mouth.
Uh, technically
I didn't blabber.
Technically?
It's all right, let's just go.
- I can't help it.
- Wait, a little slower!
Sorry.
Wait a second.
What?
What's this?
- A cheater!
- Hey hey!
- Hey!
Dad, we got it. Hey Dad.
Oh yeah.
- So we got it?
- We got it.
So that's why
you're always tired.
Oh, he's quick.
We were just waiting
until after the concert
to tell everybody.
Well, this only
makes the concert
and Christmas more special.
Yes, indeed.
Let's decorate our
family Christmas tree
before our rehearsal,
which starts at?
Thank you.
Woo yeah
Yeah, yeah
Well there's something
about Christmas
That makes me grin
from ear to ear
Listen close and
I'll tell you why
It's my favorite
time of year
Oh yeah
Candy canes and mistletoe
Top with friends
and all that snow
When it's done
don't want it to go
It's my favorite of year
But no Christmas feels right
Without you by my side
Whoo hoo hoo
So baby, come
home for Christmas
So baby, come home
Don't you know
it's Christmas
A warm fire and candlelight
Now all need is
you here tonight
So baby please come home
Can't spend the
holidays alone
Baby come home
How's that?
That's great.
Your back again?
It's my shoulder this time.
- Oh!
- I'm getting old, Lis.
Well come with me.
Alright.
- Come on.
- Okay.
- I got you.
- Alright.
Bless you.
Mm.
I'm sorry for keeping
you a secret from my family
the way that I did.
Why did you?
Matthew, I, I was scared.
Of me?
No, of me.
My judgment.
I got over Darren a long time
ago, but if I can be honest,
I never fully got
over the experience.
How guarded I let it make me.
Which wasn't fair to you or us.
After our second
Christmas together
and you didn't tell
'em we were dating.
It was just too much for me.
That's why I broke things off.
Because I thought you
didn't feel what I felt.
You know I didn't just come here
because of some
PR for the label.
You didn't?
Oh, there you...
Oh.
- What is it?
My bad.
You left your phone
in the living room
and there's a guy named Zac
who keeps blowing it up,
literally calling every minute
and left a billion voicemails.
Hey, I'm here.
Finally, there you are.
What's going on?
Haven't you read
any of my emails
or listened to any of my texts?
No. I've been kind of busy.
Oh yeah, we all got that.
You sound off.
And who's we all?
Cardon Music,
your former label?
My former label?
Did you all officially fire me?
It looks like you
fired Cardon Music first.
Why didn't you gimme
a heads up, Lis?
What?
I've been sending Rocky updates
on how your media profiles
skyrocket over the holidays
and he's blown away.
And I was this close to
getting your tour back.
But, but Zac, Zac, honestly,
I don't know what
you're talking about.
Read the article
I'm sending you.
Was it from Gia Cole?
Surprisingly, No.
It's from Charlie Lloyd at TPC.
I'm sending it now.
You care to explain this?
Explain what?
Lissette Toussaint to join
fiance Matthew Miles'
new label, Bend Records.
Cardon Music has yet
to confirm the move,
but inside sources say
the move is inevitable.
And the two hope to
make beautiful music
together for years to come.
I'm not the inside source.
Who else is?
I have no idea.
This is news to me.
The only reason Cardon
Music has not dropped me
is because they
think I dropped them.
Is that such a bad thing?
They don't appreciate you.
That's not for you
to decide, Matthew.
Oh this was a terrible idea.
Which part?
All of it.
Bringing you here, letting
people I care about
think that we're a
couple when we're not.
No.
No, we're not.
Where are you going?
I'm gonna try to figure
out a way to fix this.
And I think maybe
it's a good idea
if I stayed at a hotel after.
That sounds like a good idea.
I'll
tell your parents.
No, I'll tell them.
So you're saying the whole
time you've been faking it?
Yes ma'am.
Why?
I was afraid
that if we canceled
our non-existent engagement
before the Christmas concert,
it would cause too
much of a stir.
That just happened.
And I'm so sorry, Mom, Dad.
And I'm sorry you felt
you couldn't talk to us.
We're your parents honey.
We love you no matter what.
For the life and me,
I'm trying to understand
why you wouldn't tell
us about Matthew before,
when he was real.
Dad, you were so
vocal about Darren.
I didn't wanna take the risk
of you saying the same
things about Matthew.
I may have gone overboard.
You have to find the
right balance, honey.
I know.
We gotta head over
to the club for rehearsal.
Dad, I don't
think I can make it.
I won't be able to focus.
I can't hide my
heart for the music.
Not this time.
Lis, this is the last one
before the concert tomorrow.
Abner, our daughter's upset.
I'll know what to do.
Trust me.
I do baby girl.
Thanks Dad.
I love you guys.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I spoke with Charlie
Lloyd personally
and the inside source for
his article was not Matthew.
So who was it?
Some guy named Parker.
Matthew's business partner.
And for what it's worth,
Charlie did not suggest
that Matthew was any
part of the leak.
Deep down, I
couldn't believe that.
Does that mean that you
two will get back together?
I'm not asking as a
journalist, I promise.
I don't know, you guys,
you just, you seem to fit.
It's nice.
You think so?
Mm-hmm.
I think that's why the whole
story took off the way it did.
You're a natural couple.
Well, I don't know
what's gonna happen next.
What do you want
to happen next?
Look, I swear they were
supposed to hold that story
until after things were
more concrete with Lissette.
Well, obviously they didn't.
And now the woman I love
who's also one of the best
singers I know, hates me.
Look, I'll explain to her.
No, don't.
What's done is done.
Look, I really
am sorry, Matthew.
Look, I know you're worried
about your investment,
but you gotta think
about the people too.
And if there is a next time
you'll talk to me first.
I will.
Santa, please
don't forget me
Santa
Yeah, you know how it is.
Hey, easy, easy.
You gotta perform in
less than two hours.
What's up sissy?
I may have thrown
away the love of my life
because I'm too scared
to believe he's real.
Why don't you call him?
But I feel like it's more
than just a phone call.
I need to speak
to him in person.
Besides, his phone is shut off.
He was near Jackson Square
less than an hour ago.
How do you know that?
You bugging him?
No need.
That Liss-Mat hashtag has
been updated regularly.
Actually, Beca1225 has a photo
with the caption Matt of
hashtag Liss-Mat sighting.
Why does he look so sad?
No, he actually does.
Like Keanu Reeves
with a sandwich sad.
How long ago was this?
Less than an hour ago.
I gotta go.
Bring my baby back to me
'Cause I know that
I've been such a fool
And I'm know that
I've been such a fool
Boughs of holly
Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la
'Tis the season to be jolly
Fa-la-la-la-la
Matthew!
What are you doing here?
Looking for you.
Why?
To apologize.
Matthew, I know you didn't
release the article.
I should have trusted
you from the start.
But why would you?
Seeing that in print was
always your big fear.
I get that now though.
But why?
Thank you. I appreciate that.
Now, Liz, you have to
know you have my heart.
- Matthew-
- No, it's true.
Sure I told myself
that I was doing this
crazy fake engagement thing
to get more attention
for Bend Records.
But I also couldn't resist
the chance of being
around you again,
even if it was only temporary.
I got to meet your family and
see the city that shaped you.
That's why I said yes.
I'll always say yes to you.
Will you come back
to the club with me
and my family for
real this time?
Yes.
Can you give us another try?
Yes.
And do you love me
as much as I love you?
Yes, yes.
Yes.
Oh no, the concert!
I gotta change, I gotta change.
Come on, we gotta go.
She's cutting
it a little close.
She'll be here.
Should we wait?
Jazz is all about improv.
Let's go.
Alright.
I gotta say, seeing this
place packed out like this,
it's bitter sweet.
It's like a Christmas miracle.
But as much as I
like the support,
I am wise enough to know
you didn't come in here
to see me get mushy.
So I'd like to start the show
off with an old family favorite.
Hey, hey.
I'm here.
Another year of many changes
Another new beginning
Grateful for
this time of year
Where we share
a time of giving
It's been too
long, too far away
I'm glad that I
can finally say
It feels good to be home
I know I'm never alone
My city bright lights
and my family all around
It feels good to be
home on Christmas
A kiss, a wish a mistletoe
A memory by the fire
A family filled with
joy and laughter
The universal spice
And though I know
I've been away
My heart is here
where it will stay
It feels good to be home
I know I'm never alone.
My city bright lights
and my family all around
It feels good to be
home on Christmas
Home in New Orleans
There's no place
I'd rather be
Here with you,
you close to me
Here with us on Christmas
Here with you on Christmas
Home in New Orleans
There's no place
I'd rather be
Here with you,
you close to me
Here with us on Christmas
Here with us on Christmas
Well, this has been quite
an eventful Christmas.
You said it.
What's next for you, Abner,
as you head into your retirement
and the rest of the Toussaints?
A lot of change.
But as the song said,
change is gonna do me good.
Do us all good.
And what about All Saints?
I understand that
there may be a change
to the original decision.
There are.
All Saints won't be
closing after all.
Though I will still be retired.
We both will.
Oh, that is a big change.
If you're not in charge
of the club, who will be?
All three of our children.
This way they can share the
responsibilities equally.
Taborah will handle business
and Clay will deal
with the performers.
With help from Matthew.
And Lissette?
I'm going to be making
All Saints my new home,
at least two times a
week for the next year.
A singer in residence.
Um, something like that.
This way I can focus on the
music itself and not the noise.
Other folks can have that.
So no tours?
Not in the near future.
Cardon Music and
I have parted ways
and I appreciate everything
they've done for me.
But it's time for me to figure
out what I wanna do next.
And your new label?
I don't have one.
I'm just gonna take my time,
get back to writing
songs I wrote,
maybe even collaborate
on some new ones.
Then I'll decide what to
do next, on my own terms.
- Hey.
- Hey!
Are you sure about this?
Which part? Us?
Or working with All Saints to
showcase Bend Records' talent?
Of course, I'm talking
about the second part.
I already know about us.
Good!
Mwah.
And as far as the club
goes, I think it's great.
And what better place?
We can always reassess
next Christmas.
Hey, I'm meant to
give you this earlier.
It's beautiful.
It actually belonged
to my grandmother.
So it really was
a family heirloom?
Wow.
And... I think it looked
perfect, right where it was.
The first time I put
this on your hand,
we were just pretending.
But there's no pretend
about how much I love you.
Lissette Toussaint,
will you marry me?
Yes!
Everybody look, it's snowing.
- Oh!
- Oh my God.
And
then there's snow.
That's great.
It's amazing. Look at that.
It's snowing.
- Merry Christmas.
- Merry Christmas.
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