The Year in Music: 1939

The Great Depression began its second decade while World War II broke out in Europe. The music of 1939 reflects the hopes for a better time as well as patriotism. Big band music evolved from swing and dominated the musical landscape beginning in 1935.

The following is a sample of what was popular in 1939:

The #1 song of 1939 was Judy Garland's "Over the Rainbow."

Over the Rainbow by Judy Garland:

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HRa4X07jdE

and some other popular tunes.

Moonlight Serenade by Glenn Miller:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHBvksGdhxA

Little Brown Jug by Glenn Miller:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYo6G8RBjAE

God Bless America by Kate Smith:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8QksTKRYS0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnQDW-NMaRs

Strange Fruit by Billie Holiday:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXdnD39GYVU

When the Saints Go Marching In by Louis Armstrong:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyLjbMBpGDA