Christmas Songs: Santa Claus is Coming to Town

Santa Claus is Coming to Town is a Christmas song written by J. Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie.

The earliest known version of the song dates back to 1934 and became an instant hit. This recording was by Harry Reser and his band.

“Cantor’s original performance, broadcast at the height of the Great Depression, included verses not in the standard version of the song, encouraging listeners to be charitable and help the less fortunate at Christmas.”

In 1970, a TV special was made based on the song.

The song has been covered by Bing Crosby, the Andrews sisters, Neil Diamond, Mariah Carey, Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble and the Jackson 5.