We have a collection of 11 arrangements for Frank Loesser - Baby, It's Cold Outside
Why has "Baby, It's Cold Outside" sparked modern debates about its lyrics? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Frank Loesser: Master of Broadway Melodies
"Baby, It's Cold Outside" is a classic holiday song written by Frank Loesser, and there are several interesting facts about both the song and its composer:
Controversial Lyrics: Over the years, "Baby, It's Cold Outside" has faced controversy due to its lyrics, which some listeners interpret as suggestive or non-consensual. This controversy has led to discussions about the song's appropriateness and whether it promotes problematic behavior. Some radio stations have even temporarily banned the song during the holiday season in response to these concerns.
Oscar-Winning Song: Frank Loesser wrote "Baby, It's Cold Outside" in 1944 for him and his wife, Lynn Garland, to perform at parties. In 1949, the song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song when it was featured in the film "Neptune's Daughter," sung by Esther Williams and Ricardo Montalbán.
Prolific Composer: Frank Loesser was a highly accomplished composer and lyricist known for his contributions to musical theater. In addition to "Baby, It's Cold Outside," he wrote many popular songs for Broadway musicals, including "Guys and Dolls" and "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying."
Unconventional Structure: "Baby, It's Cold Outside" has an interesting structure where it is often performed as a duet between a male and female singer. The song features a call-and-response format, with the male character trying to persuade the female character to stay, despite her repeated objections due to the cold weather.
Popularity in Cover Versions: Numerous artists have recorded their own versions of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" over the years, including Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald, and Lady Gaga with Joseph Gordon-Levitt, among others. Each rendition brings a unique interpretation to the song.
Parodies and Homages: The song has been parodied and referenced in various forms of media, including television shows, movies, and commercials. These references often play on the humorous aspects of the song's lyrics and context.
Preservation of the Original Recording: In 2014, the Library of Congress included the original 1949 recording of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" in the National Recording Registry. This recognition highlights the song's cultural and historical significance.
Musical Legacy: Despite the controversy surrounding its lyrics, "Baby, It's Cold Outside" remains a beloved and enduring holiday classic, with its catchy melody and playful banter between the singers.
Frank Loesser's composition, "Baby, It's Cold Outside," continues to be a subject of debate and discussion, but it undeniably holds a prominent place in the holiday music canon and is an integral part of Frank Loesser's musical legacy.