"Over the Rainbow" is one of Judy Garland's most iconic songs, and there are several interesting facts about it:
Debut in "The Wizard of Oz": Judy Garland performed "Over the Rainbow" for the first time in the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz," where she portrayed the character Dorothy Gale. The song is considered one of the greatest in cinematic history.
Written by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg: The song was composed by Harold Arlen, with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg. They won the Academy Award for Best Original Song for their work on "Over the Rainbow."
Originally Almost Cut: Surprisingly, when "The Wizard of Oz" was being edited, there were discussions about cutting the song because it was thought to slow down the pace of the film. Thankfully, it was kept in, and it has since become an integral part of the movie's charm.
Symbolism: The song's lyrics are full of symbolism, with the rainbow representing a place "somewhere over the rainbow" where dreams that you dare to dream really do come true. This sentiment resonated with audiences during the Great Depression era.
Garland's Emotional Connection: Judy Garland had a deep emotional connection to the song. She often said it was her favorite of all the songs she had ever performed. She even performed it numerous times throughout her career, and it became a signature piece for her.
Enduring Legacy: "Over the Rainbow" has continued to be a beloved and enduring song. It has been covered by countless artists and remains a symbol of hope and longing.
Recognition: In 2010, the Library of Congress selected "Over the Rainbow" for preservation in the National Recording Registry for its cultural, historical, and artistic significance.
Re-Recorded Versions: Judy Garland recorded different versions of the song throughout her career. Her 1938 recording for "The Wizard of Oz" is the most famous, but she re-recorded it in 1940 and again in 1943 for other projects.
These facts highlight the significance of "Over the Rainbow" in Judy Garland's career and its lasting impact on music and film history.