Who's behind the notes? Discover Harold Arlen: Master of American Song
"Over the Rainbow" is one of the most iconic songs in American music history, composed by Harold Arlen with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg for the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz." Here are some interesting facts about Harold Arlen and the song:
Composition in One Afternoon: Harold Arlen composed the melody for "Over the Rainbow" in just one afternoon. He was inspired by a request from the film's producer, Arthur Freed, to write a song for Judy Garland's character, Dorothy, that would express her longing for a better life.
Originally Deemed Too Slow: When Arlen first played the song for the film's producers, they thought it was too slow and ponderous. It was nearly cut from the film, but Judy Garland's impassioned performance saved it.
Judy Garland's Signature Song: "Over the Rainbow" became Judy Garland's signature song and is closely associated with her. She performed it throughout her career and it remains one of her most iconic songs.
Awards and Recognition: The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1940. It also received an Academy Juvenile Award, a special Oscar presented to Judy Garland for her outstanding performance as a screen juvenile. The song later became one of the recipients of the Grammy Hall of Fame Award.
Cultural Impact: "Over the Rainbow" is not only famous for its beautiful melody but also for its profound lyrics. It has been covered by numerous artists and is considered one of the greatest songs of all time.
Covered Worldwide: The song has been covered by countless artists across various genres and in many languages. It transcends cultural boundaries and remains a beloved piece of music around the world.
Transcending Generations: The song's universal theme of yearning and hope has allowed it to resonate with audiences of all ages for generations. It is often used in films, television shows, and commercials to evoke a sense of nostalgia and emotion.
Musical Innovations: The song's use of the "somewhere over the rainbow" motif is often credited with introducing a more sophisticated harmonic structure to popular music, which had a lasting influence on songwriting.
Profound Impact on Music History: "Over the Rainbow" is frequently studied in music schools as an example of exceptional songwriting. It is known for its unusual and memorable chord progressions and its ability to convey deep emotion.
Tributes and Honors: Over the years, there have been numerous tributes and adaptations of the song, including renditions by famous artists like Frank Sinatra, Eva Cassidy, and Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, whose medley of "Over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World" became a viral hit.
"Over the Rainbow" remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its beauty, emotional depth, and cultural significance. It continues to touch the hearts of people around the world.