“I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” is a popular Christmas novelty song written by John Rox in 1953. The song was performed by 10-year-old child star Gayla Peevey and became an instant hit, reaching the Billboard pop charts. The catchy tune and humorous lyrics have made it a beloved holiday classic that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.
If you’re a fan of this quirky Christmas song, then you’ll enjoy learning these 8 interesting facts about “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”:
1. Gayla Peevey’s Love for Hippos
Gayla Peevey, the young singer who made the song famous, actually had a love for hippos long before recording the song. She had visited the Oklahoma City Zoo and fell in love with a baby hippopotamus named Matilda. This inspired her to write a letter to the zoo, expressing her desire to have a hippo for Christmas. The zoo then used this as a promotional opportunity and launched a campaign to raise funds to buy a hippo for Gayla.
2. Fundraising Campaign
After Gayla Peevey’s letter went viral, the Oklahoma City Zoo launched a fundraising campaign to raise money to buy a hippopotamus for Gayla. The campaign was a success, and a baby hippo named Matilda was purchased and brought to the zoo. This real-life connection to the song added to its popularity and made it even more special for Gayla and her fans.
3. Gayla Peevey’s Career
Despite the success of “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” Gayla Peevey’s singing career did not last long. She continued to record music and perform, but never had another hit as big as the hippo song. However, she remained a beloved figure in the world of Christmas music and continued to perform the song at holiday events and concerts for many years.
4. Resurgence in Popularity
Although “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” was originally released in 1953, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. The song has been featured in commercials, movies, and TV shows, introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Its whimsical lyrics and upbeat melody have made it a favorite among fans of Christmas music, both young and old.
5. Cover Versions
Over the years, “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” has been covered by numerous artists, each putting their own spin on the classic song. From pop stars to country singers, the song has been reimagined in various styles and genres. Despite the different interpretations, the playful spirit of the original song remains intact, making it a timeless holiday favorite.
6. Gayla Peevey’s Legacy
Although Gayla Peevey may not have had a long-lasting music career, her legacy lives on through “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.” The song continues to bring joy and laughter to listeners during the holiday season, reminding us of the innocence and magic of childhood. Gayla’s love for hippos and her infectious enthusiasm have made her a beloved figure in the world of Christmas music.
7. Hippopotamus Symbolism
The hippopotamus has long been associated with Christmas and the holiday season. In ancient Egypt, the hippopotamus was a symbol of fertility and rebirth, making it a fitting symbol for Christmas, a time of new beginnings and hope. The hippo’s playful and whimsical nature also mirrors the spirit of the holiday season, adding to the song’s charm and appeal.
8. Cultural Impact
“I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring memes, merchandise, and even a children’s book. The song’s quirky lyrics and catchy melody have made it a staple of holiday playlists and radio stations, ensuring its place in the pantheon of Christmas classics. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s timeless appeal and universal message of love and joy.
Now that you know more about the history and impact of “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” here are 15 common questions about the song, along with their answers:
1. Who wrote “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas”?
The song was written by John Rox in 1953.
2. Who performed the song?
The song was performed by Gayla Peevey, a 10-year-old child star.
3. What inspired the song?
Gayla Peevey’s love for hippos inspired the song, as she had visited the Oklahoma City Zoo and fell in love with a baby hippopotamus named Matilda.
4. What fundraising campaign was launched in connection with the song?
The Oklahoma City Zoo launched a fundraising campaign to raise money to buy a hippopotamus for Gayla Peevey.
5. What was the name of the hippo purchased for Gayla?
The hippo purchased for Gayla was named Matilda.
6. What is the song’s connection to real-life events?
The song was inspired by Gayla Peevey’s real-life desire to have a hippopotamus for Christmas, which led to the fundraising campaign and the purchase of a hippo for her.
7. How has the song been reimagined over the years?
The song has been covered by numerous artists in various styles and genres, adding to its enduring popularity.
8. What is the hippopotamus symbolism in the song?
The hippopotamus symbolizes the playful and whimsical spirit of the holiday season, adding to the song’s charm and appeal.
9. Why has the song experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years?
The song has been featured in commercials, movies, and TV shows, introducing it to a new generation of listeners.
10. What is Gayla Peevey’s legacy in the world of Christmas music?
Gayla Peevey’s legacy lives on through “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” which continues to bring joy and laughter to listeners during the holiday season.
11. How has the song inspired memes and merchandise?
The song’s quirky lyrics and catchy melody have inspired memes, merchandise, and even a children’s book, adding to its cultural impact.
12. What is the hippopotamus’s significance in ancient Egypt?
In ancient Egypt, the hippopotamus was a symbol of fertility and rebirth, making it a fitting symbol for Christmas and the holiday season.
13. What is the song’s universal message?
The song’s universal message of love and joy resonates with listeners of all ages, making it a beloved holiday classic.
14. Why is the song considered a Christmas novelty song?
The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat melody make it a lighthearted and fun addition to Christmas music playlists.
15. What is the song’s enduring appeal?
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its whimsical lyrics, catchy melody, and universal message of love and joy, making it a timeless holiday favorite.
In conclusion, “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” is a delightful and whimsical holiday song that continues to bring joy and laughter to listeners of all ages. Its catchy tune, humorous lyrics, and heartwarming backstory have made it a beloved Christmas classic that captures the magic and innocence of the holiday season. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the song or hearing it for the first time, “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” is sure to bring a smile to your face and a festive spirit to your heart. As we look forward to celebrating Christmas in 2024, let this charming song remind us of the joy and magic of the holiday season.
