Christmas Songs from the Movies

Several of the most popular Christmas songs originated in motion pictures. Here is a look at some of the notable songs that were first heard at the movies.

“White Christmas” – Holiday Inn (1942)
“White Christmas” is usually associated with the 1954 motion picture of the same name but it was first introduced in the 1942’s Holiday Inn. According to ASCAP, “White Christmas” has been recorded over 500 times in a dozen languages.

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
Meet Me in St. Louis introduced several songs that would become standards, among them “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” performed by Judy Garland. The song comes at a critical point in the movie as the Smith family contemplates leaving their home.

“Baby It’s Cold Outside” – Neptune’s Daughter (1949)
“Baby It’s Cold Outside” originated in Neptune’s Daughter where it is performed by Esther Williams and Ricardo Montalbán and by Betty Garrett and Red Skelton. 

“Silver Bells” – The Lemon Drop Kid (1951)
This song was first performed by Bob Hope and Marilyn Maxwell in 1951’s The Lemon Drop Kid. The film involves a con artist who dresses up as Santa Claus and pretends to raise money for the poor when he really intends to use the donations to pay off a gangster.

“You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” – How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
The signature song of the classic animated special was performed by Thurl Ravenscroft. As popular as How the Grinch Stole Christmas continues to be, the song has taken on a life of its own and it is one of the most recognizable pieces of film music.

“Where Are You Christmas?” – How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
The live action adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic originated the song “Where Are You Christmas?” It’s performed in the film by Taylor Momsen as Cindy Lou Who. Another version performed by Faith Hill was released as part of the film’s promotional campaign and became one of the best selling Christmas singles of all time.