"Rock Around the Clock" Release on May 10, 1954
1954 · New York City, United States
Bill Haley and His Comets release 'Rock Around the Clock', considered one of the first rock-and-roll records.
Bing Crosby Records “White Christmas”
On May 29, 1942, Bing Crosby recorded the song “White Christmas,” a timeless classic that would go on to become one of the best-selling singles of all time. The recording session took place at the Decca studios in New York City. The song, written by Irving Berlin, had debuted earlier in the year as part of the soundtrack for the film Holiday Inn, which featured Crosby and Fred Astaire.
Background and Composition
Irving Berlin, a prolific American composer and lyricist, wrote “White Christmas” as part of his score for Holiday Inn. Berlin, who emigrated from Russia to the United States as a boy, drew upon his personal experience with the nostalgia and yearning for home, crafting a song that resonated with the emotions of soldiers and civilians alike, particularly in the context of World War II.
Impact and Legacy
“White Christmas” was released as a single on July 30, 1942. It quickly became a massive success, topping the charts during the holiday season and establishing itself as a perennial favorite. The song’s universal themes of home and hope, coupled with Bing Crosby’s warm baritone voice, captured the hearts of millions across the globe. During the war, it became especially popular among soldiers overseas, who connected deeply with its sentiments.
The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1943 and led to Crosby’s iconic association with the Christmas holiday, cementing his status as the preeminent voice for the season. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists, but Crosby’s version remains the definitive rendition.
Aftermath
The lasting impact of “White Christmas” is evidenced by its continued prominence in holiday music playlists and its prevalence in pop culture. It is often cited as the best-selling single of all time, with over 50 million copies sold worldwide. The song’s enduring popularity has solidified its place not only as a holiday essential but also as an important cultural artifact representing a significant era in American history.