We have a collection of 4 arrangements for John Frederick Coots - Santa Claus Is Coming to Town
Did you know this Christmas classic was banned in some countries during wartime? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover John Frederick Coots: Composer of Christmas Classics
John Frederick Coots was an American songwriter and composer, best known for co-writing the popular Christmas song "Santa Claus is Coming to Town." Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:
Collaboration with Haven Gillespie: "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" was written in 1932 by John Frederick Coots and Haven Gillespie. Coots composed the music, while Gillespie wrote the lyrics. The song was originally written for Eddie Cantor to perform on his radio show.
Quick Composition: According to legend, Coots and Gillespie wrote the song in just a few hours. Eddie Cantor's wife encouraged them to write a Christmas song for his upcoming radio show, and the duo managed to craft the iconic tune in a very short time.
Early Success: The song was first performed on Eddie Cantor's radio show in November 1934. It quickly gained popularity and became an instant hit. The song's joyful and catchy melody, along with its heartwarming lyrics, resonated with audiences of all ages.
Multiple Recordings: "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" has been covered by numerous artists over the years. One of the earliest recordings was by Tommy Dorsey and His Orchestra in 1935. Since then, countless artists from various genres have recorded their own versions of the song.
Legal Dispute: In 1974, John Frederick Coots filed a lawsuit to reclaim the copyright for the song from the publisher Leo Feist, Inc. The legal battle resulted in Coots regaining the rights to his composition. This case was significant in establishing the termination right under the U.S. Copyright Act, which allows creators to reclaim their works after a certain period.
Pop Culture Impact: "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" has become a timeless classic and a staple of holiday music playlists. It has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
ASCAP Award: In recognition of its enduring popularity, "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" has earned the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) award for being one of the most-played songs during the Christmas season.
Legacy: John Frederick Coots left a lasting legacy with his contribution to the world of music through this iconic Christmas song. Despite his other works, he is most remembered for creating a song that brings joy to people around the world every holiday season.
"Santa Claus is Coming to Town" remains a beloved Christmas anthem that captures the excitement and anticipation of the holiday season, making John Frederick Coots a celebrated figure in the realm of festive music.