17 Best Songs From 1943

Looking for some good music made in 1943? Whatever the reason this year is special to you, it was also a time of lots of great songs. With hits by Lena Horne, Glenn Miller and more, here are the best songs from 1943.

“Stormy Weather” by Lena Horne

Song Year: 1943

In 1943, Lena Horne released “Stormy Weather,” a powerful song that quickly became her signature tune. It was part of the “Stormy Weather: The Legendary Lena ” album (1941-1958).” This iconic song showcases her impeccable vocal skills and emotional depth as she sings about heartbreak and loneliness amidst stormy weather.

Beyond her musical talents, Lena Horne was also an important figure in civil rights activism. She broke barriers in Hollywood by being among the first Black performers to sign a contract that was long-term with a major studio, MGM.

“I've Heard That Song Before” by Harry James With Helen Forres

Song Year: 1943

One of the most beloved songs of 1943, “I've Heard That Song Before,” was a major hit for Harry James with vocals by Helen Forrest. The song has become a classic example of the golden age of Hollywood and timeless melodies.

Written by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn for the film “Youth on Parade,” it became a gold record after thirteen weeks at #1.

“Don't Get Around Much Anymore” by The Ink Spots

Song Year: 1943

One of the most famous songs from 1943 is “Don't Get Around Much Anymore” by The Ink Spots. This jazz standard, originally called “Never No Lament,” was composed by Duke Ellington with lyrics by Bob Russell.

The Ink Spots, known for their smooth style and close harmonies, released their version of the song that same year, and it quickly became a hit.

“Paper Doll” by Mills Brothers

Song Year: 1943

The Mills Brothers, a prominent vocal group spanning six decades, reached their pinnacle of success with the release of “Paper Doll” in 1943. This melodic tune quickly climbed to the number-one position on the Billboard Singles Chart and remained there for twelve weeks.

Interestingly enough, “Paper Doll” experienced a long journey before earning its well-deserved recognition as one of The Mills Brothers' most beloved hits. Initially released in May 1942 as part of a single alongside “I'll Be Around,” both songs initially struggled to capture public attention but eventually gained traction during 1943's vibrant music scene.

“Taking A Chance On Love” by Benny Goodman

Song Year: 1943

“Taking a Chance on Love” is one of Benny Goodman's most beloved jazz standards. The song was first recorded in 1940 with arrangements by Fletcher Henderson, and it quickly became popular in 1943 as one of the best songs of the year.

Benny Goodman was known for his musical prowess and had several hit songs in the 1930s and 1940s, including “And the Angels Sing” and “Goodnight, My Love.” His album “Benny Goodman And His Great Vocalists,” including “Taking a Chance on Love,” remains popular among jazz enthusiasts.

“Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin'” by Bing Crosby

Song Year: 1943

The opening song from the 1943 Broadway musical Oklahoma!, “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'” quickly captured the hearts of Americans during that time. Bing Crosby recorded his version of this classic tune, which became one of the most popular American songs in 1943.

Many music enthusiasts may not know that Frank Sinatra also released a single containing this song in September 1943.

For some families – like that of our author – singing along to “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'” has evolved into much-loved family traditions. The author's grandfather was particularly fond of belting out this upbeat anthem during road trips or camping escapades.

“As Time Goes By” by Rudy Vallee

Song Year: 1943

In 1943, “As Time Goes By” by Rudy Vallee emerged as one of the year's top songs and claimed a spot among the best songs from 1943. This timeless classic was popularized in the iconic film ‘Casablanca' released just a year earlier in 1942.

Rudy Vallee's rendition of the song was his last hit record due to its reissue by RCA Victor during the 1942-44 American Federation of Musicians (AFM) recording ban.

“Sunday, Monday Or Always” by Bing Crosby

Song Year: 1943

One of the most popular songs from 1943 is “Sunday, Monday or Always” by Bing Crosby. This romantic ballad features a beautiful vocal performance by the crooner and was written by the songwriting duo Jimmy Van Heusen and Johnny Burke.

Crosby's version of the song became a hit in 1943, topping music charts nationwide. It was one of three songs he had on the top charts that year, making him the most successful recording artist of 1943.

“Oklahoma!” by Alfred Drake

Song Year: 1943

Alfred Drake was the lead actor in the original Broadway production of “Oklahoma!” in 1943. His “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'” performance with the Oklahoma Orchestra was one of the best songs from that year.

Drake's portrayal of Curly and his chemistry with co-star Joan Roberts helped make “Oklahoma!” an instant hit. The show earned critical acclaim and won several Tony Awards for its innovative storytelling and catchy songs written by Richard Rodgers as well as Oscar Hammerstein II.

“You'll Never Know” by Dick Haymes

Song Year: 1943

“You'll Never Know” by Dick Haymes is a classic ballad that was recorded in 1943 and became one of that year's top chart hits. The song's smooth vocals, sentimental tune, and tender lyrics make it a beloved love song that continues to be covered by artists today.

Haymes' version of “You'll Never Know” captures all the romantic sentiments through his soulful delivery.

“Pistol Packin' Mama” by Al Dexter & His Troops

Song Year: 1943

“Pistol Packin' Mama” by Al Dexter & His Troops is a classic “Hillbilly”-Honky Tonk record released in 1943. The song quickly became popular nationwide, and it's not hard to see why.

But “Pistol Packin' Mama” wasn't just a hit with audiences – it also made history as the first “Country” crossover hit. This means that the song reached beyond its traditional genre boundaries and found success on mainstream charts.

“In The Blue Of The Evening” by Tommy Dorsey

Song Year: 1943

Tommy Dorsey was one of the most prominent bandleaders during the Big Band Era, and his record “In the Blue of the Evening” was a major hit in 1943. The song is mesmerizing, with its beautiful melody and captivating vocal performance by Frank Sinatra.

The recording captured a “blue sound,” which fit perfectly with the song's title. Released in May 1943 on Victor Records, it quickly climbed up the music charts across America until reaching number one in January 1943.

“I Had The Craziest Dream” by Harry James

Song Year: 1943

“I Had The Craziest Dream” is a popular song from 1943 that captured the hearts of many listeners. The song was written by Harry Warren and Mack Gordon, with the version by Harry James & His Orchestra with Helen Forrest becoming a huge success.

The track has an upbeat and catchy melody that will stay in your head for days after listening. Its unique sound is thanks to the incredible talents of Harry James and his orchestra, which were renowned at this time for producing some of the best music around.

“Sentimental Lady” by Duke Ellington

Song Year: 1943

“Sentimental Lady (I Didn't Know About You)” by Duke Ellington, a beautiful example of popular jazz music in 1943. Performed by Duke Ellington and his Famous Orchestra, this song is characterized by its lush saxophone sound, which was made famous by Johnny Hodges.

As one of the three popular songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein's source to achieve great popularity in 1943, it is considered a classic in big band music, swing music, and jazz history.

“That Old Black Magic” by Glenn Miller

Song Year: 1943

One song that stands out from the best songs of 1943 is “That Old Black Magic” by Glenn Miller. This classic tune was a swinging hit that took audiences by storm and kept them dancing throughout the year.

The catchy melody and smooth vocals make this jazz standard an unforgettable piece of music history. With its swing-era sound and big-band instrumentation, “That Old Black Magic” has become a nostalgic representation of America's musical heritage during World War II

Top Songs From 1943, Final Thoughts

1943 produced some of the most memorable and timeless classics in pop music. The Mills Brothers' “Paper Doll” dominated the Billboard charts, while other songs like “As Time Goes By” by Rudy Vallee and “That Old Black Magic” captured the hearts of many listeners.

Bing Crosby, Harry James with Helen Forrest, and Glenn Miller contributed to the era with their hits which made to our list of the best songs from 1943.