You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen
Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen
But do you recall
The most famous reindeer of all?

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Had a very shiny nose
And if you ever saw it
You would even say it glows

All of the other reindeer
Used to laugh and call him names
They never let poor Rudolph
Join in any reindeer games

Then one foggy Christmas Eve
Santa came to say
“Rudolph, with your nose so bright
Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?”

Then how the reindeer loved him
As they shouted out with glee
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
You’ll go down in history”

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Had a very shiny nose
And if you ever saw it
You would even say it glows

All of the other reindeer
Used to laugh and call him names
They never let poor Rudolph
Join in any reindeer games

Then one foggy Christmas Eve
Santa came to say
“Rudolph, with your nose so bright
Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?”

Then how the reindeer loved him
As they shouted out with glee
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
You’ll go down in history”

Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer: A Christmas Classic

Every year, as the holiday season approaches, we hear the familiar tune of “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer” playing on the radio, in shopping malls, and at festive gatherings. This beloved Christmas song has become an integral part of our holiday traditions, but do you know the story behind its creation, early publications, and the notable recordings that have kept it alive for generations? Join us as we explore the fascinating history of this iconic holiday tune.

Origins of Rudolph

The story of Rudolph began in 1939 when a copywriter named Robert L. May was assigned the task of creating a promotional Christmas story for Montgomery Ward, a department store. May’s assignment was to write a storybook that would be given away to shoppers during the holiday season.

May drew inspiration from his own childhood experiences of being a shy and small child who often felt like an outsider. He decided to create a character who, like himself, was different from the norm but had something unique to offer the world. Thus, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was born.

Early Publications

In 1939, the first copies of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” were distributed by Montgomery Ward. The story, illustrated by Denver Gillen, told the tale of a reindeer named Rudolph who had a bright red nose that made him the target of ridicule from his peers. However, Rudolph’s nose turned out to be a blessing in disguise when Santa Claus asked him to lead his sleigh one foggy Christmas Eve.

The story was an immediate hit with customers, and over two million copies were distributed by the end of the 1939 holiday season. Rudolph had captured the hearts of readers across America.

Notable Recordings

The popularity of Rudolph continued to grow, and it wasn’t long before the story was adapted into a song. In 1949, songwriter Johnny Marks, who was May’s brother-in-law, wrote the lyrics and melody for “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” The song was recorded by Gene Autry and released as a single. It quickly climbed the charts, becoming a massive hit.

Since then, numerous artists have recorded their versions of “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Some of the most notable renditions include those by Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, and Burl Ives. The song’s enduring popularity has led to countless cover versions in various musical styles, ensuring its presence in our holiday playlists for decades.

“Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer” is more than just a Christmas song. It’s a heartwarming tale of acceptance and the celebration of uniqueness that has resonated with people of all ages for generations. From its humble origins as a promotional storybook to its transformation into a timeless holiday classic, Rudolph’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and music during the holiday season. So, as you listen to this iconic song during your next holiday gathering, remember the fascinating history behind the red-nosed reindeer that has brought joy to so many for nearly a century.