Musician of the Month - Johnny Marks

Johnny Marks(1909 - 1985)

Johnny Marks was an American composer who is most famous for writing "Rudolph, the Red-nosed Reindeer", but he also wrote a lot of other famous Christmas songs such as "Rockin' around the Christmas tree".  Click on read more if you would like to find out some interesting facts about Johnny Marks and hear some of his famous hits.

Here are some things you probably didn't know about Johnny Marks:

• Johnny Marks was actually Jewish and didn't celebrate Christmas, even though he is most famous for writing Christmas songs.
• He fought in World War 2 and was awarded medals for his bravery.
• His main job was as actually as a radio producer, not a songwriter.
• His song about "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was based on a poem written by his brother-in-law.
• "Rudolph" is the 2nd best selling Christmas song ever and has been covered by many different artists including Burl Ives, The Jackson 5, The Wiggles, The Simpsons and even Alvin and the Chipmunks!

Now try listening to some of Johnny Marks' most famous hits.