The Meaning Behind The Song: Put One Foot in Front of the Other by Fred Astaire
Fred Astaire’s “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” is one of his most famous songs and is known for its upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics. The song was written for the 1970 Christmas special, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, and has subsequently become a holiday classic. While many enjoy the cheerful beat, lyrics, and melody, very few understand the deeper meaning behind the song. In this article, we will delve into the true meaning of Put One Foot in Front of the Other and the history behind it.
Table of Contents
The History of Put One Foot in Front of the Other
“Put One Foot in Front of the Other” was written by songwriter Jules Bass and composer Maury Laws, specifically for the Rankin/Bass Christmas TV special Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town. The song was sung in the special’s final scenes by Mickey Rooney and Keenan Wynn, and later recorded by Fred Astaire for the soundtrack album.
The song’s message is drawn from the teachings of self-help author Dale Carnegie; it emphasizes the importance of perseverance, especially during tough times. Astaire’s incomparable talent added a layer of warmth to the song that resonated with audiences of all ages.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The song’s lyrics inspire perseverance and a go-getter mentality. The message behind “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” is to never give up—even when things get tough—because starting with one small step paves the way for future success. The lyrics encourage people to take the first step toward achieving their dreams, even if it’s a small one. Every small step counts, and eventually, they will all add up to a big achievement.
The Popularity of Put One Foot in Front of the Other
Over the years, “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” has been covered by countless artists and has even been featured in other holiday films such as Home Alone. Even though the song was originally intended to be played around Christmastime, its message of perseverance and hope is relevant all year round. The song has even become a motivational anthem for those going through tough times or struggling to overcome personal obstacles.
FAQs
What inspired the writer to create Put One Foot in Front of the Other?
The song was created for the Rankin/Bass Christmas TV special, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, by songwriter Jules Bass and composer Maury Laws. The inspiration for the song’s message came from the teachings of self-help author Dale Carnegie, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the act of taking small steps—no matter how challenging things seem—to pave the way for future success.
What is the significance of the phrase, “Put One Foot in Front of the Other?”
The phrase, “Put One Foot in Front of the Other,” is a metaphor for taking the first step towards achieving your goals, even if it’s just a small one. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and encourages people to keep moving forward towards their dreams—even when facing challenging circ*mstances.
What message does the song convey?
The message behind “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” is one of hope, perseverance, and a go-getter mentality. The song encourages people to never give up, take the first step towards their goals, and keep moving forward even during trying times.
Why has the song become so popular?
Over the years, “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” has become a popular holiday song that people of all ages enjoy due to its infectious melody and upbeat tempo. It has also become a motivational anthem for those experiencing tough times or overcoming personal obstacles, and its message of perseverance is relevant all year round.
Has the song been covered by other artists?
Yes. Over the years, many other artists have covered “Put One Foot in Front of the Other.” The song has been recorded by notable artists like Johnny Mathis, Michael Bolton, and The Chipmunks, among others.
What is the true meaning of the song?
The true meaning behind “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” is the importance of perseverance and taking small, forward-moving steps toward your goals—especially when things get tough. The song’s lyrics encourage people to take the first step, keep moving forward, and never give up.
Why is Fred Astaire’s version of the song so iconic?
Fred Astaire’s version of “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” is iconic because of his incredible talent as a dancer, coupled with his undeniable charisma. His recording adds warmth, depth, and a level of sincerity to the song, making it a timeless classic.
What is the Rankin/Bass Christmas TV special Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town?
Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town is a 1970 animated Christmas television special created by the Rankin/Bass production company. The special tells the story of Santa Claus and how he became the man we know today. It is a beloved holiday classic that is still enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
What is the significance of the song being featured in other holiday films?
As mentioned earlier, the message of “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” is relevant all year round and is not just limited to the holiday season. It has become a motivational anthem for those going through tough times or struggling to overcome personal obstacles. The song’s inclusion in other holiday films shows that its message of hope and perseverance is universal.
What makes “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” different from other holiday songs?
Most holiday songs emphasize joy, peace, and goodwill towards men, while “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” emphasizes perseverance, hope, and self-determination. The song inspires listeners to keep moving forward and never give up on their dreams.
What is the cultural significance of “Put One Foot in Front of the Other”?
“Put One Foot in Front of the Other” has become a cultural staple that people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy. The song emphasizes the values of perseverance and hope, which are essential no matter what challenges life throws your way.
What inspired the creation of the song’s lyrics?
The song’s lyrics were inspired by the teachings of self-help author Dale Carnegie, whose work highlights the importance of perseverance and taking small, positive steps towards achieving your goals. The song’s message reflects these values and encourages listeners to take the first step, no matter how small.
What are some other songs with similar messages to “Put One Foot in Front of the Other”?
Other songs with similar messages of perseverance and hope include “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor, “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, and “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey.
What makes “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” a timeless classic?
What makes “Put One Foot in Front of the Other” a timeless classic is the message of perseverance and hope that it conveys, coupled with its infectious melody and upbeat tempo. The song is a motivational anthem that inspires people to keep moving forward towards their goals, no matter what challenges they may face in life.
