8 Popular Christmas Songs Actually Written by Jewish Composers
By Jamie Sharabani
The most wonderful time of the year—the time to give back, spend time with family, and hear the same popular Christmas songs play all month long. These songs are played every year and we all find ourselves quietly humming or singing along when we hear them in grocery stores, restaurants, and on the radio.
Have you ever wondered who wrote these great hits? You might be surprised to know that many of the famous Christmas songs we hear every year were written by Jewish composers. So if you want a fun fact to share this year at Christmas dinner, here are 8 Christmas Songs that were written by Jewish artists:
“Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!“
This classic hit was written by composer Jule Styne and lyricist Sammy Cahn during a heat wave in July of 1945. It was first recorded by Vaughn Monroe with the Norton Sisters for RCA Victor in 1945. The most famous version of the song was recorded in 1959 by Dean Martin.
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year“
This song was written by Edward Pola and George Wyle, who, according to the Documentary Channel, were born Sidney Edward Pollacsek and Bernard Weissman, respectively. George Wyle is also credited with later writing the famous theme song for “Gilligan’s Island.”
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree“
Written by Johnny Marks, this song has been covered by Mary J. Blige, Miley Cyrus, Sheryl Crow, Jimmy Buffett, and many other artists after originally being recorded by Brenda Lee in 1958, according to Deseret News. Marks grew up in an affluent Jewish family in New York and later went on to form the St. Nicholas Music Company in 1949.
Joan Javits and Philip Springer began working on this song in 1953. This song was written for Eartha Kitt to later record which she did in that same year. The song did not fully grow to popularity until Madonna sang a cover of it in 1987.
@noahsundaylefkowitz What can i say, we write good music 🕎🎄 #christmas #christmasmusic #christmascarol #christmasclassics #jewish #jewishmusic #christmasfacts #themoreyouknow #composer #broadway #letitsnow #whitechristmas #rudolph #silverbells #irvingberlin #disneymusic #holidaymusic #holidaysongs ♬ original sound – Noah Sunday-Lefkowitz
Most famously known for his patriotic tune, “God Bless America,” Irving Berlin was born Israel Baline in Russia. He immigrated to America in 1893 with his family where they grew a fond appreciation for American traditions and patriotism. He wrote “White Christmas” as another patriotic homage to the country and America’s Christmas traditions.
“Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire“
This tune was written by Mel Torme, who was born to a working class Jewish family in Chicago, and Robert Wells. Torme performed alongside Sinatra at one point in his career and mainly focused on jazz. The song was written in 1945 and later popularized by Nat King Cole in 1946. The song is also known as “The Christmas Song.”
Composed by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston, this tune celebrates the holiday spirit leading up to Christmas. This Jewish duo first met at the University of Pennsylvania and got together to write this song. The song was originally going to be called “Tinkle Bells,” but Livingston’s wife pointed out that tinkle is another word for urination and he promptly changed the name.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer“
This hit was also composed by Johnny Marks who attributes his success to his multitude of Christmas compositions. The song was co-written with Robert Louis May and represents the ostracism May felt growing up as a Jew with a large nose, according to Kveller.
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Jamie Sharabani is a student at American University in Washington, D.C. working towards a bachelor’s degree in Public Health. Before attending American, she spent two years in a combat infantry unit in the Israeli military. Outside of school, Jamie is a D.C.-based freelance writer and has a passion for volunteering in her surrounding community.
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