I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas MP3 is a fun and quirky holiday song performed by Gayla Peevey, a young singer who was just 10 years old when it was released. The song came out in 1953 and quickly became a Christmas favorite due to its playful and unusual lyrics. Peevey’s cute and clear voice captured the imagination of listeners, and the song stood out from other traditional Christmas tunes.
The song was recorded by Columbia Records, and it immediately caught on, partly because of the novelty of asking for a hippopotamus as a Christmas gift. Its fun and light-hearted tone has made it a regular during the holiday season on radio stations and in homes. Over time, “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” has been included in various Christmas compilations, keeping it alive for new generations to enjoy.
The song’s appeal comes from its humor and the catchy wish of a child who specifically wants a hippopotamus, as the lyrics say, “Only a hippopotamus will do.” This line and others like “No crocodiles, no rhinoceroses” add a charming silliness that makes the song memorable. Its simple yet joyful lyrics paint a picture of a child dreaming of receiving an unusual pet on Christmas morning, adding a touch of whimsy to the season.
Interestingly, Gayla Peevey’s performance of the song led to a fundraising campaign to purchase a real hippopotamus for the Oklahoma City Zoo, which was successfully done! This event further cemented the song’s place in history as more than just a holiday hit, but a real-life Christmas miracle of sorts.
The quotable lines from the song include:
- “I want a hippopotamus for Christmas / Only a hippopotamus will do”
- “No crocodiles, no rhinoceroses / I only like hippopotamuses”
These fun lyrics give the song its playful nature and make it a hit with children and adults alike. Though Peevey went on to pursue other interests after her brief music career, her iconic Christmas tune lives on, proving that sometimes, the simplest and silliest songs can bring joy year after year.
“I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas MP3” remains a beloved Christmas classic. Its catchy lyrics and the youthful voice of Gayla Peevey make it a must-listen during the holiday season. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the fiftieth, this song is sure to bring a smile.
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