Step back in time and rediscover the magic of 1945 with our definitive list of the best songs of 1945! The year that marked the end of World War II was also a year of incredible musical innovation, blending big band swing with the burgeoning sounds of early rock and roll. From heart-wrenching ballads that captured the nation's collective sigh of relief to upbeat tunes that celebrated victory, the music of 1945 reflected a nation grappling with both loss and hope. This curated list isn't just a trip down memory lane; it's a journey through a pivotal moment in musical history, exploring the songs that defined a generation and continue to resonate with listeners today. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or just curious about the sounds of yesteryear, prepare to be swept away by the best songs of 1945. Get ready to tap your toes and hum along to the unforgettable melodies that shaped the soundtrack of a world at peace.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. It's Been a Long, Long Time |
Kitty Kallen Harry James | Day By Night (with Paul Weston & His Music From Hollywood) | 47M+ |
| 2. Rum and Coca-Cola | The Andrews Sisters | 5M+ | |
| 3. Sentimental Journey |
Doris Day Les Brown | 5M+ | |
| 4. Dream | The Pied Pipers | 4M+ | |
| 5. Till the End of Time | Perry Como | 2M+ | |
| 6. Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive |
Bing Crosby The Andrews Sisters | 2M+ | |
| 7. Opus One | Tommy Dorsey | 1M+ |
1. It's Been a Long, Long Time - Day By Night (with Paul Weston & His Music From Hollywood)
Vocal Performance: Kitty Kallen's sweet and clear vocals perfectly complement Harry James's big-band sound, creating a timeless and enchanting duet that epitomizes the romanticism of the era.
Nostalgia Factor: Released in 1945, "It's Been a Long, Long Time" captures the post-war longing and joy, making it a poignant reminder of a significant moment in history.
Musical Arrangement: The song's memorable melody and upbeat tempo, combined with James's masterful orchestration, resulted in a chart-topping hit that continues to resonate with listeners today.
2. Rum and Coca-Cola
Upbeat Tempo and Catchy Melody: "Rum and Coca-Cola" boasts an infectious rhythm that perfectly captured the celebratory mood of the post-war era, making it incredibly danceable and memorable.
Iconic Vocal Harmonies: The Andrews Sisters' signature close harmonies shine, creating a rich and delightful soundscape that's instantly recognizable and undeniably charming.
Enduring Popularity: Its playful lyrics and irresistible melody ensured its lasting appeal, solidifying its place as a true classic of 1945 and beyond.
3. Sentimental Journey (1944)
Vocal Performance: Doris Day's smooth, evocative vocals perfectly capture the bittersweet longing of a sentimental journey, a hallmark of her signature style that resonated deeply with 1945 audiences.
Orchestral Arrangement: Les Brown's orchestra provides a lush, romantic backdrop, enhancing the song's emotional depth and contributing to its enduring appeal as a classic of the era.
Timeless Quality: "Sentimental Journey" transcends its 1945 origins; its themes of memory and longing remain universally relatable, ensuring its continued place in the pantheon of great songs.
4. Dream (1945)
Vocal Harmony: The Pied Pipers' signature smooth harmonies shine in "Dream" creating a rich, layered soundscape perfectly suited to the romantic sensibilities of 1945.
Melodic Simplicity: The song's unforgettable melody is instantly catchy and deeply affecting, a hallmark of popular music during the era.
Nostalgic Charm: "Dream" evokes a sense of longing and bittersweet reflection, aligning with the post-war atmosphere and the yearning for peace and stability.
5. Till the End of Time (1945)
Vocal Performance: Perry Como's smooth baritone voice is perfectly suited to the song's romantic and melancholic theme, making it instantly captivating for listeners in 1945.
Timeless Melody: The melody of "Till the End of Time" is both memorable and emotionally resonant, a characteristic that contributed to its enduring popularity beyond 1945.
Romantic Sentiment: Released amidst the post-war era, the song's themes of enduring love and devotion provided solace and hope, resonating deeply with audiences.
6. Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive
Vocal Harmony: Bing Crosby's smooth baritone blends beautifully with The Andrews Sisters' vibrant harmonies, creating a rich and unforgettable soundscape that perfectly captures the optimism of the era.
Uplifting Melody: The song's catchy tune and positive lyrics offer an infectious energy, making it an ideal choice for boosting morale during a challenging time—a fitting reflection of the post-war mood.
Enduring Legacy: "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive" remains a timeless classic, its message of hope and resilience resonating with audiences across generations, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of 1940s popular music.
7. Opus One
Swinging Rhythm: Opus One showcases Tommy Dorsey's signature big band sound, with a driving rhythm that perfectly captures the energetic spirit of 1945.
Nostalgic Melody: The memorable melody evokes a sense of longing and romance, reflecting the post-war era's complex emotions.
Instrumental Brilliance: Dorsey's masterful trombone playing and the ensemble's tight harmonies elevate this piece above typical big band fare, solidifying its place amongst the year's best.
8. Cocktails for Two
Catchy Tune: "Cocktails for Two" boasts an infectiously upbeat melody that perfectly captures the lighthearted spirit of 1945.
Unique Instrumentation: Spike Jones' signature comedic orchestration, featuring unexpected instrumental choices and playful arrangements, sets this song apart from other releases of the year.
Enduring Appeal: Its whimsical charm and memorable tune ensured "Cocktails for Two" remained a popular classic, demonstrating its staying power beyond its initial release.
9. Nancy
Vocal Performance: Sinatra's smooth baritone perfectly captures the melancholic yet hopeful mood of the song, a hallmark of his 1945 style.
Orchestral Arrangement: The subtle yet elegant orchestration complements Sinatra's vocals, creating a timeless and sophisticated soundscape characteristic of the era's best recordings.
Lyrical Content: The romantic lyrics, though simple, resonate deeply, reflecting the emotional complexities of postwar life and contributing to its enduring appeal.
10. I'm Beginning to See the Light (1944)
Swinging Rhythm: "I'm Beginning to See the Light" boasts a joyous, infectious swing rhythm that perfectly encapsulates the upbeat energy of 1945.
Vocal Harmony: The song features Duke Ellington's signature sophisticated arrangements and smooth vocal harmonies, creating a timeless sound.
Enduring Appeal: Its masterful blend of jazz and easy listening ensured its popularity in 1945 and continues to resonate with listeners today.
11On the Atchison, Topeka and the Santa Fe
Judy Garland
1945
12You Belong to My Heart
Bing Crosby
1945
13I'm Beginning to See the Light
Ella Fitzgerald,The Ink Spots
1945
14Lover Man
Billie Holiday
1944
Lover Man