Step back in time and rediscover the magic of 1939 with our definitive list of the best songs of 1939! This wasn't just another year; 1939 marked a pivotal moment in history, a year pregnant with both looming conflict and incredible artistic expression. The music of that era reflects this duality, offering a poignant blend of upbeat swing, heartfelt ballads, and sophisticated jazz compositions that continue to resonate with listeners today. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or simply curious about the sounds that shaped a generation, exploring the best songs of 1939 is a journey through a fascinating period in musical history. Prepare to be transported back to smoky speakeasies and glamorous ballrooms as we uncover the timeless tunes that defined a year on the brink of change. Get ready to tap your toes and sing along to the unforgettable melodies that cemented 1939's place in music history!
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. When the Saints Go Marching In | Louis Armstrong | 31M+ | |
| 2. Over the Rainbow | Judy Garland | 9M+ | |
| 3. Strange Fruit | Billie Holiday | Billie Holiday | 8M+ |
| 4. Moonlight Serenade | Glenn Miller | This Is Dean Martin | 6M+ |
| 5. Beer Barrel Polka |
His Orchestra Will Glahe | 4M+ | |
| 6. Little Brown Jug | Glenn Miller | 2M+ | |
| 7. If I Didn't Care | The Ink Spots | 2M+ |
1. When the Saints Go Marching In (Louis Armstrong)
Louis Armstrong's Vocals: Armstrong's instantly recognizable gravelly voice gives this classic a timeless, soulful quality perfectly suited to the musical landscape of 1939.
Uplifting Rhythm: The jaunty, marching band rhythm is infectious and undeniably joyful, making it an excellent choice for a celebratory mood prevalent in the year.
Enduring Popularity: Its simple yet powerful melody ensured "When the Saints Go Marching In" transcended its era, remaining a beloved staple in popular culture.
2. Over the Rainbow - 2025
Judy Garland's Vocals: Garland's soaring, emotive vocals perfectly capture the hopeful yearning of the lyrics, making "Over the Rainbow" a timeless classic.
Timeless Melody: The instantly recognizable melody is both simple and profound, ensuring its place in popular culture and the hearts of listeners for generations.
Cultural Impact in 1939: Released during a time of global uncertainty, the song offered a message of hope and escapism that resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its status as one of 1939's most beloved songs.
3. Strange Fruit (1939)
Vocal Performance: Billie Holiday's haunting vocals deliver a raw emotional intensity, making "Strange Fruit" a chilling and unforgettable performance, perfectly capturing the gravity of its subject matter.
Lyrical Impact: The song's powerful lyrics, a stark depiction of the lynching of Black Americans, created a profound and lasting impact on social consciousness, solidifying its place in history.
Historical Significance: Released in 1939, "Strange Fruit" was groundbreaking for its unflinching portrayal of racial injustice, a testament to its artistry and relevance within the context of the era.
4. Moonlight Serenade
Smooth, flowing melody: "Moonlight Serenade" showcases Glenn Miller's signature sound – a perfectly balanced blend of mellow trumpets and saxophones, creating an effortlessly elegant atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of 1939.
Unforgettable vocals: While instrumental, the song's haunting melody and sophisticated arrangement are so memorable they transcend the need for lyrics, becoming instantly recognizable and deeply affecting.
Timeless appeal: Its sophisticated yet accessible charm explains why "Moonlight Serenade" remains a beloved classic, its romantic and nostalgic tone resonating across generations and solidifying its place among the best songs of 1939.
5. Beer Barrel Polka
Catchy Rhythm: "Beer Barrel Polka" boasts an infectiously upbeat tempo and a memorable polka rhythm that perfectly captured the energetic spirit of 1939.
Enduring Popularity: Its simple, yet effective musical structure contributed to its widespread popularity, making it a staple of dance halls and radio broadcasts throughout the year.
Timeless Appeal: Even today, the song's joyful energy resonates with listeners, showcasing its enduring appeal as a classic from the era.
6. Little Brown Jug - 2025
Sound: Glenn Miller's signature big band sound is in full swing in "Little Brown Jug" showcasing crisp, clean instrumentation and a driving rhythm section that perfectly captures the energy of the swing era.
Vocal Performance: While an instrumental piece, the melody is incredibly catchy and memorable, showcasing the band's skill in crafting a captivating arrangement that doesn't need vocals to shine.
Historical Significance: Released in 1939, "Little Brown Jug" exemplifies the peak of the swing era's popularity, perfectly representing the upbeat and danceable sounds that dominated the year's airwaves.
7. If I Didn't Care
Vocal Harmony: The Ink Spots' signature close harmonies are at their finest in "If I Didn't Care" creating a rich and emotive soundscape that perfectly captures the yearning of the lyrics.
Melodic Simplicity: The song's deceptively simple melody is incredibly memorable and effective, making it instantly catchy and easily hummed along to, a hallmark of many great 1939 hits.
Emotional Resonance: Its heartfelt portrayal of heartbreak and longing resonated deeply with audiences in 1939 and continues to touch listeners today, solidifying its place as a classic.
8. Your Feets Too Big
Sound: Fats Waller's signature stride piano style is in full swing, creating a vibrant and infectious energy that perfectly captures the spirit of 1939.
Vocals: Waller's playful and charismatic vocals deliver the lyrics with effortless charm, making "Your Feets Too Big" a joy to listen to.
Rhythm: The song's upbeat tempo and catchy melody are undeniably danceable, solidifying its place as a memorable tune from the year.
9. Tea For Two (1939)
Artistry: Art Tatum's virtuosic piano playing elevates this 1939 classic, showcasing his unparalleled technique and improvisational brilliance.
Swing Feel: The infectious swing rhythm and sophisticated harmonies make "Tea For Two" a perfect example of the era's jazz sophistication.
Enduring Appeal: Its timeless melody and masterful execution ensure "Tea For Two" remains a beloved standard, even decades after its release.
10. And the Angels Sing
Vocal Performance: Martha Tilton's smooth, clear vocals are captivating, perfectly conveying the song's hopeful and joyous melody, a hallmark of her style in 1939.
Timeless Melody: The catchy tune of "And the Angels Sing" is instantly memorable and has likely resonated with listeners across generations, solidifying its place in 1939's musical landscape.
Orchestral Arrangement: The song benefits from a lush orchestral arrangement that enhances the emotional impact, typical of the big band era's sophisticated sound.
11Deep Purple
Larry Clinton , Bea Wain
1938
12Cherokee
Charlie Barnet
1939
13God Bless America
Kate Smith
1938
4th of July