WEBSTER GROVES, Mo. (KMOX) - Frank Sinatra's 1948 album included a version of "Jingle Bells" which is one of the most-played Christmas songs every year on American radio stations. It was arranged by Webster Groves native Gordon Jenkins.
His son, Bruce Jenkins, joined KMOX's Charlie Brennan Show With Amy Marxkors to talk about one of the most popular songs his dad helped create. You can hear the full interview at the top of the page.
Take a listen to song here, and you'll also hear Bruce Jenkins' mother singing the background vocals.
Gordon Jenkins grew up at 41 Plant Avenue in Webster Groves. He "was a bit of a prodigy" that could read music by the age of 3 and would attract a crowd while playing piano at the former Famous-Barr store in downtown St. Louis when he was 7. Eventually, he would arrange a 40-piece band for Sinatra.
The most prominent song Jenkins arranged was "It Was a Very Good Year" by Sinatra. He won Grammy for his work:
Other famous artists he arranged for include Nat King Cole, Judy Garland, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald.
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