Hugh Martin (1914–2011) was an American composer, lyricist, and arranger known for his enduring contributions to the Great American Songbook and musical theatre. Martin's most famous contribution to the world of music is arguably the Christmas classic "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," originally introduced by Judy Garland in the 1944 MGM musical "Meet Me in St. Louis." Martin's capacity to blend melancholy with warmth in his compositions, making them timeless classics, is evident in the numerous renditions and arrangements of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" that continue to be recorded and cherished around the world.

Throughout his career, Martin collaborated closely with Ralph Blane, with whom he wrote several other hits, including "The Trolley Song" and "The Boy Next Door," also from "Meet Me in St. Louis." His work extended to Broadway, where he contributed to musicals such as "Best Foot Forward" and "Look Ma, I'm Dancin'!" Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hugh Martin's influence crossed genres and generations, moving from the golden age of Hollywood musicals into the homes of millions who celebrate the holiday season with his music, illustrating his unique talent and lasting legacy in American music.

Genres

Jazz

Soundtrack

Easy Listening

Vocal Jazz

Swing

Big Band

Broadway

Tin Pan Alley

Related Artists

Frank Sinatra

Ella Fitzgerald

Nat King Cole

Joni Mitchell

Bing Crosby

Doris Day

Judy Garland

Mel Tormé

Irving Berlin

Rosemary Clooney

Latest Release

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (Arr. for Piano by Martin Stadtfeld)

Hugh Martin•

Ralph Blane•

Martin Stadtfeld

Single - Released October 18, 2024