Description

Chanson de Leigh Harline et Ned Washington ?

### When You Wish Upon a Star: A Journey Through Melody and Lyrics

Imagine that there’s a song, a magical melody that has captured the imaginations of generations, charming its listeners from the moment it was first heard. This enchanting tune, “When You Wish Upon a Star,” is the brainchild of the talented partnership between Leigh Harline and Ned Washington, both of whom left an indelible mark on the world of music and cinema. This blog post aims to explore the inspiring creation of this song, as well as provide a peek into the lives of its creators.

#### Leigh Harline et Ned Washington: The Creative Duo

Leigh Harline, born on January 31, 1907, and Ned Washington, born on February 7, 1901, were both influential in the development of film music in the early decades of Hollywood’s golden age. Leigh Harline, an American composer, scored for Disney films such as “Pinocchio,” “Fantasia,” and “Dumbo,” among others. Ned Washington, an American lyricist, penned many iconic songs for Hollywood films, including the Oscar-winning “High Noon.”

#### “When You Wish Upon a Star”: Birth of a Classic

“When You Wish Upon a Star” made its debut in Disney’s “Pinocchio” in 1940. This song wasn’t just another musical accompaniment for the film; it was the musical soul of the animated feature, embodying the timeless hope and dreams that are at the heart of the story. The idea to incorporate this song into the film came from the songwriting collaboration of Ned Washington and Leigh Harline, who captured the essence of the animated character’s journey and aspirations.

This beautiful ballad composed in 1940 takes listeners on a journey, guided by the belief that having a wish can potentially turn into reality, encapsulating the spirit of dreams and hope in a simple and profound way.

#### Celebrating the Legacy: Performances and Recognition

Since its debut in “Pinocchio,” “When You Wish Upon a Star” has been performed by numerous artists worldwide, from Wesla Whitfield to Isfar Sarabski, offering their distinct renditions of this beloved melody. Each performance brings its own emotions and interpretations to the heartfelt lyricism of the song, yet they all maintain a common thread of inspiration and hope.

In 1944, “When You Wish Upon a Star” won an Academy Award for Best Song, cementing its place as not just a Disney classic but a timeless standard in American popular culture. The accolade was a testament not only to its musical quality but also to the emotional depth it resonated with listeners and viewers.

#### Conclusion: More Than Just a Song

“When You Wish Upon a Star” is more than a piece of music from an animated film; it is a symbol of the power of music to convey universal themes of longing, adventure, and hope in the face of the world’s challenges. The song stands as a testament to the creative genius and collaborative spirit of Leigh Harline and Ned Washington, whose work has touched and inspired countless hearts across the globe.

So the next time you hear this inspiring ballad, remember the story of the genius pair that brought it into being and the enduring legacy of “When You Wish Upon a Star.” Whether through its performance in movie soundtracks, on Broadway stages, or in the homes of music lovers, this song continually provokes feelings of hope and dreaming big.