10

We’ve finally reached the Top 10 Christmas Songs per ASCAP and without delay here is #10: Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas by Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin, 1943. They were hired to write several songs for MGM’s musical “Meet Me In St. Louis”, to include this one. When singer/actress Judy Garland saw the first draft lyric she rejected it. Director Vincent Minelli agreed saying they were too depressing and asked Martin to rewrite the song • Original lyrics “It may be your last / Next year we may all be living in the past” became “Let your heart be light / Next year all our troubles will be out of sight” • Garland sang the revised song in the film, released 1944, and became a favorite among American troops serving in WWII • In 1957 crooner Frank Sinatra asked Martin to change the line “Until then we’ll have to muddle through somehow”, saying “Do you think you could jolly up that line for me?” Martin did, changing it to “Hang a shining star upon the highest bough” • Personally, I prefer Judy’s version :) How about you? • Grouch was feeling frisky and festive today and wanted to wish you all a Meowy Catmas!