“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”: The Story Behind Andy Williams’ Iconic Christmas Song
This beloved classic will always be a Christmas staple. Originally recorded by Andy Williams in 1963, the song was written by and George Wyle and Edward Pola. With it’s jazz-infused vibe, the song also celebrates the holiday season with multiple festive references. These reference include caroling and holiday gatherings.
The song warmly speaks about fun holiday traditions like singing carols, sledding through the snow, and roasting marshmallows. One of the other traditions mentioned is the old Victorian practice of telling ghost stories on Christmas Eve. This particular thing isn’t done as much anymore. Since Williams’ version of the song is the most popular, many other singers have covered it. These artists including Garth Brooks, Harry Connick Jr., and Johnny Mathis.
The Song’s Cultural Impact
The song is also used as the theme for the 2008 Hallmark film, “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”. The original Christmas movie stars Brooke Burns, Warren Christie, and Henry Winkler. Despite not being released as a single in the U.S, the song still achieved massive popularity through the years. Peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, the song remains one of the most-played holiday tracks. To date, Williams version of the song has acquired over 1.09 billion streams on Spotify.
The Origin of Andy Williams
Known for his smooth baritone voice and easy-listening style. Williams began his musical career at the tender age of eight. First singing with his three older brothers, the Wall Lake, Iowa native found acclaim In 1947. As part of Kay Thompson and the Williams Brothers, Williams first experienced success in Las Vegas. After the group’s dissolution in 1951, Williams pursued a solo career.
Rising to Prominence
His career soon gained momentum after joining the cast of Steve Allen’s Tonight Show in 1954. This exposure led to a recording contract with Cadence Records. In 1956, his single “Canadian Sunset” reached number seven on the Billboard charts, followed by his first number-one hit, “Butterfly,” in 1957. In 1962, his career reached new heights. After performing “Moon River,” at the Academy Awards, it won Best Original Song.
The theme from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” became his signature tune. It was later featured on his album Moon River and Other Great Movie Themes(1962). The album peaked at number three on the charts. That same year, he launched his variety series The Andy Williams Show. Airing from 1962 to 1971,the show won three Emmy Awards.
The Legacy of Andy Williams
Williams went on to record 44 albums throughout his career. At least 17 of those albums were certified gold, and three were platinum. On September 25, 2012, Andy Williams died from bladder cancer. He was 84. Widely recognized as “The King of Christmas”, Williams will always be remembered for his enduring influence in popular music.
