Songs Of Christmas Past Part 3: Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.

One of the most popular songs and holiday television specials associated with childhood is the perineal classic Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Over the years, this song about a lovable reindeer, once ostracized for his red nose, has worked its way into the hearts of millions.  However, Rudolph did not get his start in a song or a Christmas special; he debuted in a book.

In 1939 creator Robert May was assigned to Chicago based department store Montgomery Ward. The shop, which previously bought and handed out coloring books, decided to create their book in order  to save money.  The story idea of Rudolph, initially rejected by the management due to the significance of a red nose being associated with alcoholism, needed the help of illustrator Denver Gillen to prove its innocence. Gillen, using zoo deer as models to draw the cute characters to the story. The management supported the idea after seeing his illustrations.  In its first year of publication, Montgomery Ward distributed 2.5 million copies of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.

In 1949, May's brother in law Johnny Marks composed the well-known song based on the story of Rudolph with the first recording done by Gene Autry. Autry was reluctant to record the piece until his wife talked him into it which resulted in an excellent decision. Autry's performance of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer sold 2 million copies in 1949 and became the second biggest-selling Christmas song of all time.

If you would like sheet music or a recording of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, click on any of the links below.

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120 Best Known Christmas Songs (Piano/Vocal/Guitar). For voice, piano and guitar chords. This edition: Piano/Vocal/Guitar. P/V/C Mixed Folio; Piano/Vocal/Chords. Sacred. SMP Level 5 (Intermediate). Songbook. Vocal melody, piano accompaniment, lyrics, chord names and guitar chord diagrams. 192 pages. Published by Alfred Music (AP.VF1854A).

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At the Christmas Ball: Just Tracks (Karaoke CDG) Christmas. Karaoke CDG. Published by Pocket Songs (PS.JTG112).

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Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer & Other Carols (For 3 Recorders). Composed by Various. Standard notation. Published by Universal Edition (PR.UE031474).