We have a collection of 2 arrangements for Irving Berlin - White Christmas
Who composed the most famous Christmas song of all time? Learn!
"Bing Crosby's White Christmas" is not only a famous song but also a significant part of Bing Crosby's legacy. Here are some interesting facts about the song and Bing Crosby's connection to it:
Original Release and Success: "White Christmas" was originally written by Irving Berlin and first recorded by Bing Crosby in 1942. It was featured in the musical film "Holiday Inn," starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire. The song became an instant hit and resonated with audiences, especially during World War II, as it evoked feelings of nostalgia and longing for home.
Best-Selling Single: Bing Crosby's rendition of "White Christmas" is one of the best-selling singles of all time, with estimated sales of over 50 million copies worldwide. It is considered Crosby's signature song and an iconic holiday classic.
Oscar Win: The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1943. It was the first Oscar-winning song to come from a film that didn't win for Best Picture.
Yearly Tradition: "White Christmas" has been played and performed countless times during the holiday season since its release. It became a tradition for many families to listen to the song around Christmas time, contributing to its enduring popularity.
Re-Recording: Bing Crosby re-recorded the song several times throughout his career due to its popularity. The most famous re-recording was done in 1947 with the John Scott Trotter Orchestra, which is the version that most people are familiar with today.
Holiday Inn vs. White Christmas Film: While "White Christmas" was first introduced in the film "Holiday Inn," it later inspired a film of its own titled "White Christmas," released in 1954. This film, also starring Bing Crosby, focuses on a pair of entertainers who team up to save a failing inn owned by their former military commander.
Technological Innovation: Bing Crosby's use of the song and other recordings played a significant role in the development of magnetic tape recording technology. He was an early adopter of tape recording and helped popularize its use in the music industry.
Crossing Generations: "White Christmas" has the distinction of being loved by multiple generations. Its timeless melody and heartwarming lyrics continue to resonate with people of all ages, making it a holiday classic that transcends time.
Recordings in Different Languages: Bing Crosby's rendition of "White Christmas" has been translated and recorded in numerous languages around the world, showcasing its global appeal.
Legacy: Bing Crosby's influence on popularizing "White Christmas" and his contributions to the holiday music genre have left an indelible mark on the way we celebrate and enjoy Christmas festivities.
Bing Crosby's rendition of "White Christmas" has become an integral part of holiday celebrations and a symbol of the joy and nostalgia associated with the Christmas season.