Song Story: Moonlight in Vermont

Moonlight in Vermont is a popular song about the state of Vermont.

The song was published in 1944 by John Blackburn {wrote lyrics} and Karl Suessdorf {wrote music}.

Margaret Whiting introduced the song in 1944.

John Blackburn, the lyricist, has been quoted as saying, “After completing the first 12 bars of the lyric, I realized there was no rhyme and then said to Karl, ‘Let’s follow the pattern of no rhyme throughout the song. It seemed right.'” The lyrics are also unconventional in that each verse (not counting the bridge) is a haiku.

The song is an unofficial state song for the state of Vermont.  It is often the first dance song played at Vermont wedding receptions.

The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years including Johnny Mathis, Willie Nelson, Nat King Cole, Tommy Dorsey and his Orchestra, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitgerald and Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Kate Smith, Mel Torme, Dizzy Gillespie, Bobby Womack and Billie Holiday to name a few.