George Boyle
'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' is a classic Christmas song that has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Chicago, Michael Bublé, Sam Smith, and Josh Groban. The song, written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, debuted in the 1944 film Meet Me in St. Louis, where Garland's character sings it to cheer up her younger sister, Margaret. The original lyrics were deemed too depressing, and Martin made changes to make the song more upbeat for the film. The song has since become a beloved Christmas classic and is often included in wedding playlists during the holiday season. Couples looking to infuse some holiday cheer into their wedding celebrations can consider including this timeless tune, along with other Christmas love songs, to create a magical and romantic atmosphere.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Writers | Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane |
| Year written | 1943 |
| Introduced by | Judy Garland |
| Introduced in the film | Meet Me in St. Louis |
| Year of the film | 1944 |
| Judy Garland's character | Esther |
| Judy Garland's character's sister | Margaret/Tootie |
| Singers with their own versions | Frank Sinatra, Chicago, Keyshia Cole, Michael Bublé, Sam Smith, Josh Groban, Kenny G, Egg |
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What You'll Learn
'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' covers
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane in 1943, has become a classic Christmas song. The song's association with the 1944 MGM musical "Meet Me in St. Louis" has faded over time, and it is now more generally associated with the holidays. The song has seen numerous covers and renditions over the years, with artists experimenting with its sound, tone, and lyrics to make it more upbeat, downbeat, or even sexy. Here are some notable covers of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas":
Judy Garland (1944)
The original version of the song was performed by Judy Garland in the film "Meet Me in St. Louis." Garland's character, Esther, sings the song to her 5-year-old sister, Tootie, as their family faces the sad news of having to move away from their beloved home.
Frank Sinatra
Frank Sinatra's cover of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is a modified version of the original. While I couldn't confirm the exact release year, it appears to be a well-known cover.
The Carpenters, Ella Fitzgerald, and Kenny G
These artists have also released notable covers of the song, with Kenny G's 1994 instrumental version being described as "beguiling" and "deeply sensual."
Egg (2021)
The 2021 cover by Egg stands out for its return to the original, more depressing lyrics from "Meet Me in St. Louis." This version is considered one of the best and has bumped many better-known renditions from top rankings.
Honorable Mentions
Other notable covers of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" include those by Twisted Sister and Tamar Braxton.
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Judy Garland's original version
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is a song written in 1943 by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane and introduced by Judy Garland in the 1944 MGM musical \"Meet Me in St. Louis". Garland's character, Esther, sings the song to cheer up her despondent five-year-old sister, Tootie, played by Margaret O'Brien, in the film. The family is distraught by the father's plans to move to New York City for work, leaving behind their beloved home in St. Louis, Missouri.
The original version of the song was considered depressing by Garland, her co-star Tom Drake, and director Vincente Minnelli, who asked Martin to change the lyrics. For example, the lines "It may be your last / Next year we may all be living in the past" were changed to "Let your heart be light / Next year, all our troubles will be out of sight". Martin initially resisted, but eventually made several changes to make the song more upbeat. Garland's version, also released as a single by Decca Records, became popular among US troops serving in World War II.
In 1957, Frank Sinatra recorded the song but asked Martin to revise the lyrics to promote more positive themes. Martin's revised lyric to "until then, we'll have to muddle through somehow" was "hang a shining star upon the highest bough". Sinatra's request altered the song's focus to a celebration of present happiness rather than the anticipation of a better future. Garland sang Sinatra's revised version of the song to her children, Joey and Lorna Luft, on "The Judy Garland Show Christmas Special".
Judy Garland's 1944 version of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" reached No. 27 on the Billboard charts.
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Frank Sinatra's modified version
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is a classic Christmas song introduced by Judy Garland in the 1944 film "Meet Me in St. Louis." The song, written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, has had several variations over the years, including a well-known modified version by Frank Sinatra.
Sinatra first recorded the song in 1948 with the original lyrics, which included the final lines: "Someday soon we all will be together/If the fates allow/Until then, we'll have to muddle through somehow/So have yourself a merry little Christmas now." However, in 1957, when Sinatra approached Martin to record the song again for his Capitol Records album "A Jolly Christmas," he requested a happier ending to the song. Sinatra specifically asked to "jolly up" the line "until then, we'll have to muddle through somehow", as he felt it conflicted with the cheerful tone he wanted for his album.
Martin obliged and revised the lyrics to promote more positive themes. The line "until then, we'll have to muddle through somehow" was changed to "hang a shining star upon the highest bough," adding a more optimistic and festive sentiment. Martin also made other alterations, shifting the song's focus from anticipating a better future to celebrating present happiness. This modified version of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" was recorded by Sinatra on July 16, 1957, at Capitol Studios in Hollywood, with a lavish production that included background vocals and a full orchestra.
Sinatra's version of the song has become one of the most popular Christmas tunes, with hundreds of artists covering it since. It has also been featured in weddings and Christmas celebrations alike, spreading cheer and joy during the holiday season. "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" has truly become a timeless classic, with Sinatra's modified version solidifying its place in the canon of beloved Christmas songs.
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Christmas wedding songs with lyrics you'll love
Christmas is a magical time to get married, and what better way to celebrate your love than with some festive songs? From classic crooners to modern pop, there are plenty of Christmas wedding songs with lyrics that will warm your heart. Here are some suggestions to get you in the holiday spirit:
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is a classic choice for a Christmas wedding. Written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, it was first performed by Judy Garland in the 1944 film "Meet Me in St. Louis." The song has since been covered by many artists, including Frank Sinatra, who modified the lyrics to be more upbeat. Lyrics you'll love: "Let your heart be light / From now on, our troubles will be out of sight / Faithful friends who are dear to us / Gather near to us once more / Through the years, we all will be together / If the fates allow."
For a more modern option, Taylor Swift's "Christmas Tree Farm" is a whimsical song about love and the holidays. It paints a picture of a snowy farm and the warmth of being with your loved ones during the festive season. Lyrics you'll love: "My winter nights are taken up by static / Stress and holiday shopping traffic / In my heart is a Christmas tree farm / Sweet dreams of holly and ribbon / Just being in your arms / Takes me back to that little farm / Where every wish comes true."
If you're looking for a classic winter wonderland vibe, Dean Martin's "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" is a perfect choice. This song will have you dreaming of snow-covered meadows, building snowmen, and cuddling up by the fire. Lyrics you'll love: "Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? / A beautiful sight, oh, we're happy tonight / Walking in a winter wonderland / Well, in the meadow, we can build a snowman."
For a romantic first dance, Otis Redding's "White Christmas" is a soulful take on the classic song. This version adds a loving twist to the traditional lyrics. Lyrics you'll love: "Presents, what a beautiful sight / Don't mean a thing if you ain't holding me tight / You're all that I need / Underneath the tree."
Lastly, "White Christmas," originally sung by Bing Crosby, is a dreamy song that describes an ideal snowy season. Whether you're snuggling up by the fire or dancing under the stars, this song will transport you to a winter wonderland. Lyrics you'll love: "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas / Just like the ones I used to know / Where the treetops glisten / With every Christmas card I write / May your days be merry and bright."
So, whether you're walking down the aisle or dancing the night away, these Christmas wedding songs with their lovely lyrics will definitely set the mood for your special day.
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Christmas love songs to play at your wedding reception
Christmas is a magical time to get married, and what better way to celebrate than with some festive love songs at your wedding reception? Here are some classic and contemporary Christmas love songs to get you and your guests into the holiday spirit:
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is a timeless classic that never fails to capture the holiday spirit. Originally written in 1943 by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, it was made famous by Judy Garland in the 1944 film "Meet Me in St. Louis." Over the years, various artists have covered this song, including Frank Sinatra, who requested modified lyrics to promote more positive themes. Kenny G's jazzy instrumental version and Sam Smith's cover are also worth considering.
"White Christmas," performed by Bing Crosby, evokes the dream of a snowy Christmas with all the classic holiday elements: sleigh bells, mistletoe, and presents by the tree. This song will have you and your guests feeling all the warm and fuzzy feelings of the season.
Taylor Swift's "Christmas Tree Farm" is a more modern addition to the Christmas love song repertoire. The song paints a wholesome image of a Christmas tree farm and the magic of being with loved ones during the holidays. It's the perfect choice for couples who want to inject some contemporary flair into their wedding reception.
"I'll Be Home for Christmas" is a classic song that tugs at the heartstrings of anyone dreaming of being with their loved ones during the holidays. Originally performed by Bing Crosby, this song has become a staple of the holiday season and is sure to create a cozy atmosphere at your wedding reception.
With these songs, you'll have your guests feeling the love and joy of the season. So, snuggle up under the mistletoe, raise a glass, and celebrate your love amidst the magic of Christmas.
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Frequently asked questions
Some romantic songs for a Christmas wedding first dance include White Christmas by Bing Crosby, Let It Snow by Dean Martin, and All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey.
Other popular Christmas songs for weddings include Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Judy Garland, It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas by Michael Bublé, and Underneath the Tree by Kelly Clarkson.
Some unique Christmas songs for a wedding could be A Jolly Christmas by Frank Sinatra, Chicago XXV: The Christmas Album by Chicago, and What's It Gonna Be, Santa? by Champlin and Scheff.
