Red Friday, 020813: God Bless America

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Happy Friday!! =)

I received an email from my Uncle this week, and I decided to share what it was about here today for "Red Friday."  

In 1938, at the height of tension in Europe over Nazi Germany and the looming threat of war, a new song was introduced to the people of America.  Kate Smith, famous radio singing star of the time, recorded the first version of "God Bless America" on her radio show, on the 20th anniversary of Armistice Day (now Veteran's Day here in the U.S.).

The song was written by famous songwriter and composer Irving Berlin, originally in 1918 (though he didn't published it), and then revised it for Ms. Smith for release in 1938.  Times were still challenging (from The Great Depression) for many families, and in addition to worry over the turmoil taking place in Europe, the population was in dire need of uplifting.  

The song "God Bless America" is, in essence, a prayer to keep our nation safe, as well as an homage to her beauty.  It was extremely well received upon its initial release, and has been recorded by many artists over the years.  It is also considered to be our country's second national anthem, often being played either instead of or in addition to "The Star Spangled Banner" at major sporting, cultural, and other, events.  

This is a video of the first recording of "God Bless America", by Kate Smith.  It is very moving, and still stirs the hearts and swells the patriotism of Americans to this day.

    

Also [I LOVE this little fact =)], Irving Berlin gave all proceeds of royalties from the performance of this song to the Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of the Unites States of America, which still stands today.

All-in-all, if this doesn't get your patriotic juices flowing, ...well, I just know it chokes me up~ every time! ;)

Have a great weekend! =)

May your imagination light your way,
~xo~StacyLynn a.k.a. AllAmrcnWldFlwr [Flower]