Performed by Kate Smith
Written by Irving Berlin 1917 Royalties donated to
the Boy Scouts of America
The following thoughts by a Vietnam
Veteran that are associated with this video (from the
movie, "You're in the Army Now") on his YouTube channel
. . . describe how Kate Smith came across her
signature song, "God Bless America" . . . that
remains one of our country's most beloved songs and
unofficial anthem. (There are other memorable scenes
associated with this video.)
"In
early 1940, Kate Smith, a fiercely patriotic American,
and the biggest star on radio, was deeply worried about
her country. She asked Irving Berlin if he could give
her a song that would re-ignite the spirit of American
patriotism and faith. He said he had a song that he had
written in 1917, but never used it. He said she could
have it.
She sat at the piano & played it and realized how good
it was. She called Mr. Berlin and told him that she
couldn't take this from him for nothing. So, they agreed
that any money that would be made off the song would be
donated to the
Boy Scouts of America.
Thanks to Kate Smith and Irving Berlin, the Scouts have
received millions of dollars in royalties. This clip is
from the movie, "You're in the Army Now". You will see a
familiar face in this—one that we are all very proud of.
Frank Sinatra said that when Kate Smith, whom he
considered the greatest singer of his age, first sang
this song on the radio, a million guys got 'dust' in
their eyes and had to wipe the tears the 'dust' caused.
If you can watch and listen without 'dust' getting in
your eyes, you have no soul. Sit back and enjoy a Real
Star."
God Bless America
