May 29 - Bing Crosby Records "White Christmas"
The Unifying Power of Music
This is the day Bing Crosby records Irving Berlin's song "White Christmas" in 1942.
You’re reading one of my daily devotionals first published in 2024. While I take a brief pause to rest, refocus, and tend to other projects, I’m resharing last year’s editions. Some may include edits for clarity or added insight. The historical event and its spiritual lesson remain true to the original and just as timely as ever, though the wording may be refined. I pray it continues to offer insight and encouragement.
"Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord." - Ephesians 5:19 (NIV)
This Date in History
On May 29, 1942, in the midst of World War II, American crooner Bing Crosby stepped into a recording studio to record a new song written by legendary composer Irving Berlin. The song was "White Christmas," and it would go on to become the world's best-selling single, with an estimated 100 million copies sold.
Crosby, already a well-established singer and actor, had been entertaining audiences since the 1920s. His distinctive baritone voice and relaxed, conversational singing style had made him one of the most popular and successful entertainers of his time. Crosby would go on to win an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the 1944 film "Going My Way," just two years after recording "White Christmas."
Irving Berlin, a prolific songwriter and composer, had written the song in 1940, reflecting on his own experiences as a Jewish immigrant celebrating Christmas in America. Berlin, who had arrived in the United States as a child, had a remarkable career that spanned over six decades, composing more than 1,500 songs, including "God Bless America" and "Puttin' on the Ritz."
The collaboration between Crosby and Berlin on "White Christmas" was a natural fit, given their shared commitment to creating music that resonated with audiences on a deep, emotional level. Crosby recorded the song with the John Scott Trotter Orchestra and the Ken Darby Singers, and remarkably, the recording session took just 18 minutes.
Although the song was recorded in May 1942, it was not released until later that year, as part of the soundtrack for the film "Holiday Inn." The movie, which starred Crosby and Fred Astaire, featured "White Christmas" as a key musical number and helped to establish the song as a holiday standard.
The song's release came at a poignant time, as many American soldiers were serving overseas during World War II, separated from their families during the holiday season. "White Christmas" struck a chord with listeners, both on the home front and abroad. Crosby's warm, comforting baritone voice delivered Berlin's lyrics with a sincerity and warmth that resonated with audiences.
The recording's success was unprecedented. It topped the Billboard charts for 11 weeks and remained in the top 30 for months. "White Christmas" became an instant classic, defining the holiday music genre and setting the standard for Christmas songs for generations to come. Its popularity endured long after the war ended, and it continued to be played on radio stations and featured in films, television shows, and holiday compilations.
In 1954, the song served as the inspiration for the classic holiday film "White Christmas," which starred Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen. The movie further cemented the song's status as a beloved Christmas tradition.
Bing Crosby's recording of "White Christmas" not only showcased his vocal talents but also highlighted the power of music to evoke emotions, memories, and a sense of unity. The song's lasting impact is a testament to the enduring appeal of a simple melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the universal longing for the comfort and joy of the holiday season.
”White Christmas” has been recorded by hundreds or thousands of artists. I would love it if, in the comments, you share with us your favorite version of White Christmas that isn't Bing Crosby (because Bing is clearly the best).
Historical Context
The early 1940s were marked by the upheaval and uncertainty of World War II. The United States had officially entered the war in December 1941, following the attack on Pearl Harbor. The nation was grappling with the challenges of wartime life, including rationing, propaganda, and the separation of families as soldiers were deployed overseas.
Against this backdrop, popular music served as a source of comfort, unity, and inspiration for Americans both at home and abroad. Songs like "We'll Meet Again" and "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" became anthems of hope and resilience, while patriotic tunes like "God Bless America" and "The Star-Spangled Banner" fostered a sense of national pride and shared purpose.
Hollywood also played a significant role in shaping public sentiment and morale during the war years. Films like "Casablanca" and "Yankee Doodle Dandy" celebrated American values and the fight for freedom, while stars like Bing Crosby and Bob Hope used their talents to entertain troops and support the war effort.
The collaboration between Bing Crosby and Irving Berlin on "White Christmas" was a product of this era, reflecting the longing for normalcy, tradition, and connection in the face of global conflict. The song's themes of nostalgia and sentimentality struck a chord with listeners, offering a comforting reminder of happier times and the promise of a brighter future.
Did You Know?
Bing Crosby recorded "White Christmas" multiple times throughout his career. The most well-known version is the 1947 re-recording, which was made after the original 1942 master recording was damaged.
Today’s Reflection
Music has an extraordinary capacity to unite people, transcending barriers and fostering a deep sense of connection. This truth is beautifully exemplified in the enduring impact of Bing Crosby's recording of "White Christmas" during the tumultuous years of World War II. As the world was torn apart by conflict and division, this simple song managed to touch the hearts of millions, offering a glimmer of hope and a reminder of the ties that bind us together.
The apostle Paul understood the unifying power of music when he wrote to the Ephesians, "Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord" - Ephesians 5:19 (NIV). In a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, these words remind us of the vital role that music can play in bringing us together and strengthening our bonds of love and fellowship.
Just as "White Christmas" struck a chord with Americans during wartime, providing a common touchstone and a reminder of the things that united them, music in the church has the power to knit our hearts together in worship and praise. When we lift our voices in song, we join in a chorus that spans generations and cultures, expressing our shared faith and our common hope in Christ.
Moreover, music has a unique ability to express the depths of our emotions and experiences in a way that words alone often cannot. The haunting melody and wistful lyrics of "White Christmas" captured the longing and nostalgia that so many felt during a time of great uncertainty and sacrifice. Similarly, the psalms and hymns we sing in church give voice to our joys and sorrows, our fears and our triumphs, allowing us to connect with one another on a profound level.
In a world that is all too often marked by discord and division, the unifying power of music is a precious gift. As believers, we are called to embrace this gift and to use it to build up the body of Christ. When we sing together, we not only praise God but also affirm our connection to one another as brothers and sisters in faith.
So let us take to heart the words of Ephesians 5:19 and make music a central part of our lives and our worship. Let us sing with joy and gratitude, knowing that our voices are joined with those of believers around the world and throughout the ages. And let us allow the unifying power of music to draw us closer to one another and to the God who created us to live in harmony and love.
Practical Application
Take a moment to reflect on the music that has been meaningful to you in your faith journey. Consider sharing a favorite hymn or worship song with a friend or family member and discuss how the music has impacted your life and brought you closer to God and others. Encourage them to do the same, fostering a sense of connection and unity through your shared love of music.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of music and its power to unite us as Your children. Help us to use this gift to glorify You and to build up one another in love. May the songs we sing and the melodies we share be a reflection of Your grace and goodness, drawing us ever closer to You and to each other. In the name of Jesus, our Savior, we pray. Amen.
Final Thoughts
The recording of "White Christmas" by Bing Crosby in 1942 serves as a poignant reminder of the power of music to bring people together, even in the darkest of times. As we reflect on the unity and comfort this song brought to a nation at war, we are also reminded of the profound ways in which music can unite us as believers. The Bible repeatedly encourages us to lift our voices in praise, to share our faith through song, and to let the music of our hearts draw us closer to one another and to God. May we embrace the gift of music in our lives and our worship, using it to build up the body of Christ and to spread the message of His love and grace to all who hear.
Author’s Notes
A big thanks to Paul Christopher over at The Salt & Light Daily for sharing THIS IS THE DAY with his readers. The piece he published was inspired by Paul’s thoughtful deep dive into the book of Luke and was written exclusively for his audience. Give it a read, then stick around for Paul’s excellent articles. He’s working hard to find new ways to support other Substacks and build up the Christian community here, and that kind of effort deserves our encouragement. If you do, be sure to leave a comment and let him know I sent you.
Great article written about a wonderful song. As you mentioned Jason, "White Christmas" is the best selling single ever, but it also has the distinction of being the only single to top the Billboard Hot 100 on three separate occasions. It was #1 in 1942, '45, and '46. Keep up the good work!
Wait...you mean that someone other than Bing Crosby recorded "White Christmas"?! I'm kidding, of course, but honestly, even if I've heard someone else's recording, I have no idea who it might have been. For this song, there's only Bing.