Classic Christmas song, “Rodolphe, the little red-nosed reindeer” celebrates its 75th anniversary – rts.ch

The story of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” dates back to 1939. Robert L. May – employee of a coloring book store, created this character for a Christmas booklet for children.

Rudolph is Santa's ninth reindeer, who everyone makes fun of because of his shiny red nose. However, that glowing nose becomes a valuable asset on a particularly foggy Christmas night. Santa Claus then chooses Rodolphe to guide his sleigh, thus transforming the naughty little reindeer into the hero of the night.

The creation of a Christmas hit

Brother-in-law of Robert L. May, American songwriter Johnny Marks adapted “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” into a song in 1949. Performed by Gene Autry – the singing cowboy of Hollywood – it immediately became a Christmas hit and reached number one on the US charts.

For his melody, Johnny Marks chose to make a nod to the title “Douce nuit”, another emblematic song of this celebration, whose influence is felt in the first bars. The bells, essential elements of Christmas songs, find a perfect justification there, evoking the reindeer pulling Santa's sleigh.

The different versions of the song

Since its creation, the song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” has been performed by many artists. In 1970, the Jackson Five offered a soulful version, bringing a touch of sweetness to the original melody. More recently, in 2001, the group Destiny's Child recorded a groovier version, modernizing this Christmas classic.

Each interpretation brings a new sound to the song, while retaining the festive and warm spirit that characterizes it. So, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” continues to shine, just like Rudolph's nose, illuminating the holiday season with its timeless magic.

Subject radio: Pierre-Do Bourgknecht

Adaptation web: Sébastien Foggiato