Who's behind the notes? Discover Harold Arlen: Master of American Song
"Over the Rainbow" is a timeless classic written by Harold Arlen, with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg. The song was specifically composed for the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz," where it was famously performed by Judy Garland, who played the role of Dorothy Gale. Here are some interesting facts about Harold Arlen and the iconic song:
Composition Inspiration: Harold Arlen composed "Over the Rainbow" as a ballad expressing the yearning of a character for a better place. The song was meant to capture the dreams and hopes of Dorothy, the protagonist in "The Wizard of Oz."
Initial Doubts: Despite its eventual success, the studio initially had reservations about including "Over the Rainbow" in the film. They thought it might be too sophisticated for the young target audience.
Almost Cut from the Film: The studio executives considered cutting the song from the final version of "The Wizard of Oz" because they thought it slowed down the pace of the movie. However, it was ultimately kept in, and it went on to become one of the most beloved songs in cinematic history.
Oscar-Winning Song: "Over the Rainbow" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1940. It became Judy Garland's signature song and is often considered one of the greatest movie songs of all time.
Cultural Impact: The song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. It has become an enduring symbol of hope and aspiration and has been used in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials.
Recording Challenges: Judy Garland's recording of "Over the Rainbow" was a crucial moment in the film. However, she was initially nervous and self-conscious about recording such an important song. The final version we hear in the film was actually her first take.
Adaptations and Arrangements: Over the years, "Over the Rainbow" has been covered and reinterpreted by a wide range of artists. The song has been adapted into various musical styles, from jazz to pop, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal.
Rainbow Connection Connection: Paul Williams and Kenny Ascher, who wrote "Rainbow Connection" for "The Muppet Movie" in 1979, have acknowledged the influence of "Over the Rainbow" on their composition. The two songs share a similar theme of dreams and aspirations.
Library of Congress Preservation: In 2001, the Library of Congress deemed "Over the Rainbow" to be an important cultural and historical artifact and selected it for preservation in the National Recording Registry.
"Over the Rainbow" continues to be a cherished and timeless piece of music, touching the hearts of audiences around the world with its evocative melody and poignant lyrics.