Over The Rainbow

"Over The Rainbow" is one of the most iconic and beloved songs in popular music history. Written for the 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz, it has transcended its origins to become a timeless anthem of hope, dreams, and the beauty of imagination. The song's gentle melody, poignant lyrics, and heartfelt delivery have touched millions of people around the world for over eight decades.

Origins and Creation

The song was composed by the prolific songwriting duo Harold Arlen (music) and E.Y. Yip Harburg (lyrics). The task was to create a tune for the character Dorothy Gale, played by Judy Garland, which would reflect her yearning for a better, more magical place beyond the troubles of everyday life. "Over The Rainbow" was originally written during the pre-production phase of The Wizard of Oz, at a time when the film was still a gamble for Warner Bros. and producer Mervyn LeRoy.

Harold Arlens hauntingly beautiful melody offers a soaring sense of hopefulness while remaining simple and memorable. Yip Harburgs lyrics are poetic yet accessible, capturing the innocence and longing of a young girl dreaming of a place "where troubles melt like lemon drops."

Judy Garlands Performance

Judy Garlands rendition of "Over The Rainbow" in the movie is widely considered definitive. Her pure, clear voice expresses both vulnerability and strength, perfectly embodying Dorothy's spirit. At just 16 years old, Garland gave the song a haunting sincerity that continues to resonate deeply to this day.

Interestingly, some early production concerns suggested that the song might not fit the tone of the movie, or that it was too slow and overwrought. However, both Garland and the filmmakers insisted on its inclusion. This decision proved prescient. Garlands filmed performance, complete with a wistful look toward the skies, remains one of cinemas most revered musical moments.

Lyrics of "Over The Rainbow"

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?

The Songs Impact and Legacy

Upon release, "Over The Rainbow" captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike. It earned the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1939 and has since been consistently ranked as one of the greatest songs of the 20th century. The American Film Institute even named it the greatest movie song of all time.

Beyond its cinematic origins, the song found new life in countless covers and reinterpretations by legendary artists across genres from Eva Cassidy's soulful acoustic version to Israel Kamakawiwooles gentle ukulele medley. Its universal message of hope and escape from hardship has made it a comfort in times of trouble and a staple in celebrations worldwide.

Symbolism and Meaning

The imagery in "Over The Rainbow" is symbolic of the human desire to transcend one's current circumstances. Dorothys longing to escape Kansas and find a magical place over the rainbow resonates with anyone who has dreamed of a better future. The rainbow itself symbolizes hope, promise, and the spectrum of human emotion.

This yearning is not just about physical escape but also about emotional and spiritual freedom. The lyric where troubles melt like lemon drops evokes a carefree world removed from pain and sorrow an ideal many seek whether through dreams, creativity, or personal transformation.

Cultural References and Uses

Over the decades, "Over The Rainbow" has been referenced in films, television, and literature, often employed to evoke nostalgia or to highlight a character's inner wishes. It is frequently used at commemorations and memorials, symbolizing hope beyond loss.

Notably, the song holds a special place in LGBTQ+ culture, where it has been embraced as a metaphor for the search for acceptance and a better life. Judy Garland herself became an icon in the gay community, and "Over The Rainbow" took on added layers as an anthem of resilience and pride.

Musical Structure and Style

Musically, "Over The Rainbow" is composed in the key of A-flat major (originally) and features a slow, flowing tempo that emphasizes its dreamy quality. The song employs a sweeping melodic line which rises on the title phrase, mimicking the upward journey implied by the lyrics. Its simple chord progression bolsters the melody without overshadowing it.

The songs structure follows a classic AABA form, typical of many Tin Pan Alley standards. This balance of familiarity and distinctiveness helped it to embed itself deeply into American popular music tradition.

Trivia and Interesting Facts

Harold Arlen composed the melody in less than an hour after receiving the request from the films producers.
The song was almost cut from The Wizard of Oz, but Judy Garland fought to keep it.
Over The Rainbow was not the only song written for the film, but it remains the most famous and enduring.
Judy Garland re-recorded the song several times throughout her career, each version providing a new emotional depth.
Israel Kamakawiwooles 1993 medley combining "Over The Rainbow" with "What a Wonderful World" introduced the song to a new generation globally.

Conclusion

"Over The Rainbow" is more than just a song from a beloved movie; it is a heartfelt expression of hope and the enduring human spirit. Its gentle melody and poetic lyrics have made it a beacon of comfort to countless people everywhere. Whether heard in a movie theater, on the radio, or performed live, its message remains as fresh and inspiring now as it was the day it was written.

The dream that lies over the rainbow reminds us all to believe in the possibility of a brighter tomorrow, to hold on to our dreams, and to remember that, sometimes, magic is just a song away.

Reference Files For Over The Rainbow

Screenshoot