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Irving Berlin, the legendary American composer and lyricist, is indeed closely associated with the iconic Christmas song "White Christmas." Here are some interesting facts about Irving Berlin and his beloved holiday classic:

1. "White Christmas" Origins: Irving Berlin wrote "White Christmas" in 1940 while staying at the La Quinta Hotel in California. He reportedly told his secretary, "Grab your pen and take down this song. I just wrote the best song I've ever written, heck, I just wrote the best song that anybody's ever written!"

2. Best-Selling Single: "White Christmas" became one of the best-selling singles of all time. Bing Crosby's 1942 recording of the song is particularly famous and remains the best-selling single in history, with over 50 million copies sold.

3. Film Debut: The song first appeared in the 1942 film "Holiday Inn," where Bing Crosby performed it. This film's success helped catapult the song to stardom.

4. Oscar Winner: "White Christmas" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1943. It's one of only three songs to ever win both an Oscar and a Grammy (Song of the Year).

5. Christmas Classic: Since its debut, "White Christmas" has become a holiday standard, played and covered by numerous artists over the years. It's a staple of the holiday season and is often heard on the radio, in shopping centers, and in various holiday movies and TV shows.

6. Inspiration from Berlin's Childhood: Irving Berlin's inspiration for the song came from his own childhood memories of snowy winters in Russia and his longing for a traditional American Christmas. The song's lyrics reflect this nostalgia and desire for a picturesque holiday scene.

7. Enduring Popularity: "White Christmas" has been recorded by countless artists, including Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Michael Bublé. Its enduring popularity makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all generations.

8. Musical Legacy: Irving Berlin is widely regarded as one of America's greatest songwriters, with a vast catalog of popular songs. "White Christmas" is just one of his many hits, but it remains his most famous and enduring composition.

9. Philanthropic Impact: Irving Berlin donated all the royalties from "White Christmas" to the Armed Forces Radio Service during World War II. This gesture demonstrated his commitment to supporting the troops during the war.

10. Cultural Impact: Beyond its musical and commercial success, "White Christmas" has had a significant cultural impact. It embodies the sentimentality and longing often associated with the holiday season, and its enduring appeal continues to bring joy to people around the world every Christmas.

These facts highlight the remarkable legacy of Irving Berlin and the enduring appeal of "White Christmas" as a beloved holiday song.