"My Favorite Things" is a song written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II for the musical "The Sound of Music," which premiered on Broadway in 1959. Here are some interesting facts about Rodgers & Hammerstein and the song:
Collaboration: Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II were one of the most successful and influential musical theater duos. They collaborated on many iconic musicals, including "Oklahoma!," "Carousel," "South Pacific," and, of course, "The Sound of Music."
Creation of "My Favorite Things": The song "My Favorite Things" was written specifically for the character Maria, played by Julie Andrews, in "The Sound of Music." In the context of the musical, Maria sings the song to comfort herself during a thunderstorm.
Popular Cover Versions: "My Favorite Things" has been covered by numerous artists across various genres. One of the most famous versions is by jazz musician John Coltrane, who transformed it into an instrumental jazz piece.
Iconic Scene: The song is featured in a memorable scene in "The Sound of Music" film adaptation, where Maria sings it to the von Trapp children during a thunderstorm. The lyrics describe various comforting and pleasant things to help distract from the storm.
Awards: "The Sound of Music" received several awards, including five Academy Awards. The film adaptation is one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
Cultural Impact: "My Favorite Things" has become a popular and enduring song, often associated with the holiday season due to its inclusion in the film. The lyrics have been referenced and parodied in various forms of media over the years.
Legacy: Rodgers & Hammerstein's contributions to musical theater have left a lasting legacy. Their innovative approach to integrating music, lyrics, and storytelling has influenced generations of musical theater creators.
These facts highlight the significance of Rodgers & Hammerstein's work and the enduring popularity of "My Favorite Things" from "The Sound of Music."