About the song
“What a Wonderful World” is a timeless classic that has touched the hearts of many since its release in 1967. Written by Bob Thiele and George David Weiss, the song was first recorded by the legendary Louis Armstrong. Despite facing initial challenges, it has become an enduring anthem of optimism and beauty.
The song was recorded by Armstrong at the United Recording studio in Las Vegas, following one of his nightly performances at the Tropicana Hotel. It was a late-night session, starting around 2 a.m., and the recording process was not without its hurdles. Armstrong faced interruptions from nearby freight train whistles, but he remained calm and composed, showcasing his professionalism and dedication.
The president of ABC Records at the time, Larry Newton, had a different vision for Armstrong’s music. He preferred upbeat, swinging tunes like “Hello, Dolly!” and did not see potential in the slow, soulful pace of “What a Wonderful World.” His lack of support led to minimal promotion of the song, which affected its initial success in the United States. However, the song did find its audience, topping the charts in the United Kingdom in 1968.
In 1988, the song experienced a revival after being featured in the film “Good Morning, Vietnam.” This reissue brought it back into the spotlight, where it achieved a respectable position on the Billboard Hot 100. Armstrong’s recording of “What a Wonderful World” was later honored with an induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, cementing its place in music history.
The song’s creation is a testament to the perseverance and artistry of Armstrong and his collaborators. Despite the obstacles, including studio disruptions and initial resistance from record executives, the song’s message of hope and appreciation for life’s simple joys has resonated across generations.
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Lyrics
I see trees of green
Red roses too
I see them bloom
For me and you
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
I see skies of blue
And clouds of white
The bright blessed day
The dark sacred night
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
The colors of the rainbow
So pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces
Of people going by
I see friends shaking hands
Saying, “How do you do?”
They’re really saying
I love you
I hear babies cry
I watch them grow
They’ll learn much more
Than I’ll ever know
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Yes, I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Ooh, yes