About the song
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland is one of the most beloved songs in the history of American music, forever associated with its timeless rendition in the 1939 classic film “The Wizard of Oz.” This iconic song, written by Harold Arlen with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg, beautifully captures the dreams and hopes of its young heroine, Dorothy Gale.
Judy Garland’s performance of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in “The Wizard of Oz” is often hailed as one of the greatest moments in film history. As Dorothy, a young girl longing to escape her mundane life in Kansas, Garland’s voice imbues the song with a poignant mixture of innocence and yearning. Her heartfelt delivery made the song an instant classic, resonating with audiences of all ages.
The song’s lyrics speak to a universal desire for a better, brighter future, somewhere “over the rainbow.” The imagery of bluebirds flying and dreams coming true beyond the rainbow has a magical quality that has made the song enduringly popular. Arlen’s beautiful melody, combined with Harburg’s evocative lyrics, creates a piece that is both hopeful and wistful.
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was a critical and commercial success from the moment of its release. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1939, cementing its place in cinematic and musical history. Over the decades, the song has been covered by countless artists across various genres, but Judy Garland’s original version remains the definitive interpretation.
“The Wizard of Oz” soundtrack, featuring “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” became one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time. Garland’s recording of the song was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1981, recognizing its significance and enduring popularity. The American Film Institute ranked it as the greatest movie song of all time in their “100 Years…100 Songs” list, a testament to its lasting impact on American culture.
Judy Garland’s association with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” became a defining element of her career. Despite her many other achievements in film and music, this song remained her signature piece, reflecting her own struggles and dreams. Garland’s emotive voice and the song’s beautiful message of hope and longing continue to touch hearts around the world.
In conclusion, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland is more than just a song; it is a cultural landmark that has transcended its origins in “The Wizard of Oz” to become a symbol of hope and dreams. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke deep emotions and inspire listeners to believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow. Judy Garland’s performance has immortalized the song, ensuring its place in the pantheon of great American music.
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Lyrics
Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high
There’s a land that I heard of
Once in a lullaby
Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true
Someday I’ll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That’s where you’ll find me
Somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly
Birds fly over the rainbow
Why then, oh, why can’t I?
Somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly
Birds fly over the rainbow
Why then, oh, why can’t I?
If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow
Why, oh why can’t I?