I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas: An Evening with Gayla Peevey

About this event

Q&A Experience with Gayla Peevey in the studio's LIVE ROOM

GAYLA's BOOK is included with ticket price titled "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas: A Life Story of Faith, the Hippo, and a Song That Endures"

Doors open: 4:30pm Event Start, Q&A + Stories: 5:30pm

Meet legendary Oklahoma singer, recording artist and songwriter Gayla Peevey! Born in Oklahoma City and raised in Oklahoma, Gayla began performing at a remarkably young age, singing on Oklahoma radio and television before becoming a recording artist with Columbia Records.

At just 10 years old, Gayla recorded the beloved 1953 Christmas classic “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” written by John Rox. The song became a national hit and remains one of the most beloved holiday recordings of all time.

Gayla’s musical career continued into her teenage years, when she recorded for Joy Records under the name Jamie Horton. She also established herself as a songwriter, writing songs including “My Little Marine,” “Just Say So,” “We’re Through – We’re Finished,” “When It Comes to Love,” “Yes, I’ll Be Your Girl,” and “Dear Jane.” “My Little Marine” became a Billboard Hot 100 hit in 1960.

Come hear Gayla share stories from her extraordinary life and career — from growing up in Oklahoma and becoming a child recording star to her years as a songwriter and performer. This special Q&A and book signing is a wonderful opportunity to meet an authentic piece of Oklahoma music history.

About the Book: In this heartfelt memoir, Gayla reflects on the faith that carried her through every season—the highs of sudden fame, the heartaches of growing up, and the steady grace of God’s provision in ordinary life. With warmth, humor, and honesty, she shares the story of a song that became a Christmas classic, a hippo that captured a nation’s imagination, and a life shaped not by the spotlight but by the enduring goodness of God. About the Event The Church Studio, a legendary state-of-the-art recording studio, archive, and historic landmark, presents a rare opportunity to connect with rock history through its Q&A and Book Signing Experience series. This highly curated and intimate evening will honor the life and legacy of Chris O'Dell while supporting The Church Studio’s mission to educate, support, and inspire through professional recording, public programs, and interpretive exhibits.

Limited to only 100 guests, this once-in-a-lifetime event will include:

FREE copy of Peevey's Book A Q&A session between Church Studio CEO Teresa Knox and Gayla Peevey Docent-led tours of The Church Studio, rich with history and architectural beauty Access to cash bar Live Room seating

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon!

From The Church Studio