About the song
“Over the Rainbow,” also known as “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a beacon of hope, and a timeless melody that has resonated with audiences for over eight decades. This exploration delves into the origins of this iconic ballad, its unforgettable performance in “The Wizard of Oz,” and the enduring legacy it has left on the world.
Born from the collaboration of composer Harold Arlen and lyricist Yip Harburg, “Over the Rainbow” was destined for greatness. Harburg envisioned a song for a young girl yearning to escape the troubles of her Kansas home, a place devoid of color and wonder. Arlen, inspired by this concept, crafted a melody with a “long broad line,” perfectly capturing the vastness and hopefulness of Dorothy’s dreams.
The song’s placement in “The Wizard of Oz” proved to be a pivotal moment. Delivered by the incomparable Judy Garland, then just a teenager, “Over the Rainbow” became a poignant expression of Dorothy’s longing for a better place. Her emotional rendition, filmed just after a frustrating day on set, resonated deeply with audiences, establishing the song as an anthem for dreamers and a symbol of hope.
However, the impact of “Over the Rainbow” transcended the silver screen. The song’s simple yet evocative lyrics, along with its soaring melody, resonated with people from all walks of life. Judy Garland’s recording became her signature song, further solidifying the ballad’s place in popular culture. The song’s influence extended far beyond the US, with artists worldwide covering and reinterpreting it, making it a truly international phenomenon.
The legacy of “Over the Rainbow” continues to grow. From Judy Garland’s posthumous Grammy Hall of Fame induction to its selection as number one on the RIAA and NEA’s “Songs of the Century” list, the song’s cultural significance is undeniable. Even today, “Over the Rainbow” continues to be featured in movies, television shows, and commercials, a testament to its enduring power.
“Over the Rainbow” is more than just a beautiful song; it’s a reminder that even in the midst of hardship, there is always hope for a brighter future. It’s a song that continues to inspire and uplift, a testament to the enduring power of music and the human spirit.
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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?