“I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” is a beloved Christmas novelty song that has been enjoyed by generations of listeners since it was first released in 1953. Written by John Rox and sung by 10-year-old Gayla Peevey, the song tells the story of a child who wishes for a hippopotamus as a Christmas gift. The catchy tune and playful lyrics have made it a holiday favorite for many, and it continues to be a popular choice for Christmas playlists to this day.
Here are 8 interesting facts about the original song “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”:
1. Gayla Peevey recorded the song in 1953 when she was just 10 years old. She had previously gained fame for her hit song “I Want You to Be My Guy” and was chosen to record “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” because of her youthful voice and playful personality.
2. The song was inspired by a real-life event. In 1953, the Oklahoma City Zoo received a baby hippopotamus named Matilda as a Christmas gift. Gayla Peevey, who lived in Oklahoma City at the time, was so enamored with the hippo that she decided to write a song about wanting a hippopotamus for Christmas.
3. “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” was a commercial success upon its release, reaching number 24 on the Billboard pop chart. It has since become a holiday classic and is regularly played on radio stations and in stores during the Christmas season.
4. The song’s whimsical lyrics and upbeat melody have endeared it to audiences of all ages. The catchy chorus, which repeats the line “I want a hippopotamus for Christmas, only a hippopotamus will do,” has become a memorable part of the song’s appeal.
5. In 2007, Gayla Peevey released a new recording of “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” as a duet with the band Wilder Adkins. The updated version features a more contemporary sound while still capturing the charm of the original song.
6. Over the years, “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous Christmas compilations. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s timeless appeal and ability to bring joy to listeners of all ages.
7. The song has been used in commercials and movies, further cementing its status as a holiday classic. Its playful lyrics and catchy melody make it a perfect fit for festive advertisem*nts and heartwarming movie scenes.
8. “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” continues to be a favorite among children and adults alike. Its lighthearted humor and infectious energy make it a welcome addition to any holiday playlist, bringing a smile to the faces of all who hear it.
Now, let’s answer some common questions about the song “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”:
1. Who wrote the song “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”?
John Rox wrote the song, and it was performed by Gayla Peevey in 1953.
2. What inspired the song’s creation?
The song was inspired by a real-life event where the Oklahoma City Zoo received a baby hippopotamus named Matilda as a Christmas gift.
3. How old was Gayla Peevey when she recorded the song?
Gayla Peevey was 10 years old when she recorded “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.”
4. What was the song’s peak position on the Billboard pop chart?
The song reached number 24 on the Billboard pop chart in 1953.
5. Has the song been covered by other artists?
Yes, the song has been covered by various artists and featured in Christmas compilations over the years.
6. What makes the song so popular?
The song’s whimsical lyrics, upbeat melody, and catchy chorus have endeared it to audiences of all ages.
7. Has the song been used in commercials or movies?
Yes, the song has been used in commercials and movies, further solidifying its status as a holiday classic.
8. How did Gayla Peevey update the song in 2007?
Gayla Peevey released a new recording of the song as a duet with the band Wilder Adkins, featuring a more contemporary sound.
9. Why is “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” considered a holiday classic?
The song’s timeless appeal, playful lyrics, and infectious energy have made it a favorite among listeners for generations.
10. What is the significance of the song’s chorus?
The catchy chorus, which repeats the line “I want a hippopotamus for Christmas, only a hippopotamus will do,” is a memorable and fun part of the song.
11. Why do people continue to enjoy “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”?
The song’s lighthearted humor, joyful spirit, and festive vibe make it a must-listen during the holiday season.
12. How has the song’s popularity endured over the years?
The song’s ability to bring joy to listeners of all ages, its inclusion in Christmas playlists, and its frequent use in media have helped it remain a beloved holiday classic.
13. What role did Gayla Peevey’s personality play in the song’s success?
Gayla Peevey’s youthful voice and playful personality brought a sense of innocence and fun to the song, making it a hit with audiences.
14. How does the song capture the magic of Christmas?
The song’s whimsical lyrics, catchy melody, and heartwarming story of a child’s Christmas wish for a hippopotamus encapsulate the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
15. What makes “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” a unique addition to Christmas music?
The song’s playful theme, memorable chorus, and enduring popularity set it apart from other holiday tunes, making it a standout favorite for listeners of all ages.
In conclusion, “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” is a delightful Christmas song that has stood the test of time and continues to bring joy to listeners each holiday season. Its playful lyrics, catchy melody, and heartwarming story make it a beloved classic that will surely be enjoyed for years to come. So next Christmas, make sure to add this fun and festive tune to your holiday playlist and let the whimsical charm of a hippopotamus-filled Christmas bring a smile to your face.
