The Holiday Song That Became A World Record

It was a sun-scorched and sweltering Arizona day when lyricist Irving Berlin wrote the song that would go on to sell more copies than any other piece of music in history. In 1940, while poolside at the Arizona Biltmore Resort in Phoenix, Berlin stayed up into the night writing "White Christmas". He came down the next morning and said to his secretary that he had created "the best song ever written". While that statement is arguable, what is not up for debate is the huge impact that the song "White Christmas" has had on listeners for the past seven decades.

The song first entered the American zeitgeist as the signature piece of the 1942 film, 'Holiday Inn'. The song was performed as a duet between Bing Crosby and Martha Mears. Martha Mears would dub the vocals for actress Marjorie Reynolds in the film. White Christmas would win the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1942.

Perhaps because of its optimism, wrapped up in a melancholy score, "White Christmas" was at the height of its popularity during World War II. It would top the Billboard Charts in 1942, and twice again in the years following the War, 1945 and 1946. The only song ever to accomplish this feat in three separate years.

Most people remember "White Christmas" as the anchor of the 1954 film of the same name, starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. In the film, Crosby again sings his signature song which echoes Berlin's nostalgic, sentimental lyrics.

Strangely enough, the version most famous to listeners was recorded at the Decca Studios in 1947. It was not the original recording Crosby made of the song. The original was recorded in 1942 but the master tape was destroyed, prompting the re-recording in March of 1947. The reason for destruction? Frequent playing had worn out the tape.

"White Christmas" has been a popular holiday song for many different generations. The Drifters' cover of "White Christmas" soared in sales and airplay after being featured in the 1991 film, 'Home Alone'. The song is experiencing increased popularity again in 2007 with a new cover by Taylor Swift. However, Crosby's single of "White Christmas" remains the top rendition of the tune, with everyone from Bob Marley to Martina McBride having vocalized the legendary song during their careers.

With lyrics reminiscing of snow-covered, glistening treetops and children listening to sleigh bells, "White Christmas" paints an idyllic picture of a classic Christmas. It evokes images of simplicity, innocence and goodwill toward fellow man. The song presents an image of a Christmas in the company of family and friends, in a cozy, safe, snow-covered world. For everyone, from children in school holiday productions to their elders, who might remember the song's debut, "White Christmas" remains the musical cornerstone of the holiday season.

In 1992, the Library of Congress added the song "White Christmas" into the National Recording Registry. National Public Radio included the song in its 1999 list of the 100 Most Important Musical Works of the 20th Century.

"White Christmas", according to the 2008 Guinness Book of World Records, is the highest-grossing single of all time. It has sold more than one hundred million copies, including both singles and album versions. Indeed, this holiday song that has now become a world record, ensures that people everywhere, for years to come, will be wishing for a Christmas that is merry, bright, and white.

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