A JOLLY CHRISTMAS FROM FRANK SINATRA — Track #6: “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

“Let your heart be light
From now on, our troubles will be out of sight…”

Frank’s birthday was December 12th. There are 12 tracks on A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra — his first Christmas album, released by Capitol Records in 1957. We’ll bring them your way in order, between now and December 24.

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas“, a song written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane, was introduced by Judy Garland in the 1944 MGM musical Meet Me in St. Louis. Frank Sinatra later recorded a version with modified lyrics.

Frank Sinatra asked Martin to revise the original line “Until then we’ll have to muddle through somehow.” He told Martin, “The name of my album is A Jolly Christmas. Do you think you could jolly up that line for me?” Martin’s new line was “Hang a shining star upon the highest bough.” Martin made several other alterations, changing the song’s focus to a celebration of present happiness, rather than anticipation of a better future.

Today the song ranks among the most performed, with contemporary artists putting their own spin on this holiday classic.

(source: Wikipedia)