The perennially popular Christmas classic song, "Frosty the Snowman," began as a country music song. Sounds hard to believe? It's true. The holiday tune has country roots. Per mountbonnell.info, "The song, originally written by Walter Rollins and Steve Nelson in 1950, gained popularity through recordings by Gene Autry and Jimmy Durante. [Willie] Nelson's version, released in 1979 as part of his 'Pretty Paper' album, showcases his distinctive vocal style and musical interpretation."
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Gene Autry's Popularity With The Public Soared
Autry Was A Talented Predecessor Of Other Beloved Cowboy Stars Like Tex Ritter And Roy Rogers
Per Country Music Hall of Fame, "While unquestionably the best-selling country & western artist from the onset of the Great Depression through the close of World War II, Gene Autry was so much more. His status as a top box-office attraction of Hollywood westerns brought his music to the attention of a vast audience otherwise unfamiliar with country music."
His wholesome persona and sincere demeanor easily won audiences' hearts and loyalty. Autry was the genuine All-American boy on horseback.
He Enjoyed Great Success After World War II
Autry Had Other Christmas Songs Including 'Frosty'
Per the outlet, "The postwar years brought more million-selling records, including 'Here Comes Santa Claus' (1947), 'Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer' (1949), 'Peter Cottontail,' and 'Frosty the Snow Man' (both 1950)." Autry was accompanied on the recording by the Cass County Boys.
The Two Songwriters Responsible For 'Frosty'
Steve Nelson And Walter Rollins Had Written Another Lighthearted Classic
The songwriting duo also penned "Here Comes Peter Cottontail" in 1949. The following year, they struck gold gain with "Frosty." Gene Autry ran with it. Per American Songwriter, "The country cowboy turned the festive tune into a hit, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the Hot Country Songs chart."
'Frosty' Was Covered By A Host Of Other Renowned Singers Over The Years
Stars Gravitated To The Charming Song
Many vocalists recorded the song. Among them are Kimberley Locke, who competed on American Idol, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, and The Ronettes. No matter who sings it, this lovable wintertime classic will be around forever.
