The A to Z of Wartime Song

Tom Carradine and Lili Redman
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🎵 Hosted by @tomcarradine & @lili_redman ✨ Exploring iconic songs from the frontlines to the home front 📜 History, harmony & heart from WWI to WWII

  1. 12/24/2025

    Christmas Special 2025 - White Christmas - A Song of Home, Hope and Hidden Heartache

    In this Christmas special episode of The A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine unwrap one of the most iconic songs of the wartime era - Irving Berlin's "White Christmas." They trace the remarkable life of Berlin, from his childhood as a Jewish immigrant fleeing persecution, through the bustle of Tin Pan Alley, to becoming one of America's most prolific and patriotic songwriters. Along the way, they explore his astonishing output, his service during both world wars, and the deeply personal losses that shaped his music - including the hidden grief many believe lies at the heart of White Christmas. The episode delves into the song's origins in the 1942 film Holiday Inn, its record-breaking success through Bing Crosby's legendary recording, and the wave of wartime versions that followed on both sides of the Atlantic — from Carroll Gibbons and Joe Loss to Harry Roy's surprisingly swing-infused take. With discussion of the evocative lyrics, Berlin's deceptively simple but masterful melody, rarely sung verse and the song's enduring emotional power for families separated by war, this festive episode reflects on why White Christmas continues to resonate - not just as a seasonal favourite, but as a song born of longing, memory and hope. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES Irving Berlin https://www.irvingberlin.com/ Newsies (Disney Movie Musical) https://www.newsiesthemusical.com/ Song Plugger https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Song_plugger Tin Pan Alley https://www.tinpanalley.nyc/ The Bowery https://ny.curbed.com/2017/10/4/16413696/bowery-nyc-history-lower-east-side Lower East Side Tenement Musuem https://www.tenement.org/ Vaudeville https://www.vaudeville.org/ Tony Pastor's Music Hall, Union Square http://www.performingartsarchive.com/Theatres/Theatres-P/Pastors-14th-Street_NY/Pastors-14th-Street_NY.htm Pelham Cafe, Chinatown NYC https://infamousnewyork.com/2013/08/12/mike-salters-pelham-cafe-birthplace-of-irving-berlin/ Irving Berlin's Transposing Piano https://thesongbook.org/about/news-media/news-release-items/songbook-foundation-to-unveil-irving-berlin-piano/ Alexander's Ragtime Band https://www.irvingberlin.com/alexanders-ragtime-band Vernon and Irene Castle https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vernon_and_Irene_Castle Won't You Play a Simple Melody (Bing Crosby / Dick Powell) https://youtu.be/uIZvVj3rxho Simultaneous Quodlbet https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quodlibet When I Lost You (Irving Berlin) https://youtu.be/sB5n6wnT61w https://youtu.be/wi-zs6FggAY Irving Berlin WW1 Service https://parlorsongs.com/storefront/berlinwar-companion.php How I Hate To Get Up in the Morning (Irving Berlin) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70FVFxXpY_8&list=RD70FVFxXpY_8&start_radio=1 Putting on the Ritz - Fred Astaire https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xfphyb I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm https://youtu.be/LRmGYCwsPpM This Is The Army (1943 Film) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmUfIfqW4zs La Quinta Hotel, California https://www.laquintaresort.com/   Arizona Biltmore Hotel https://www.arizonabiltmore.com/about-us/resort-history/ Sheet Music (Grey) https://www.rubylane.com/item/2403998-2517-H-35/1942-Sheet-Music-%22White-Christmas%22 Sheet Music (Green) https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/295132116554 Sheet Music (Movie Song Cover - with War Bonds Advert) https://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=32283821141&dest=gbr&ref_=ps_ggl_2038407968_77546262132&cm_mmc=ggl-_-UK_Shopp_RareStandard-_-product_id=bi%3A%2032283821141-_-keyword=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=2038407968&gbraid=0AAAAAD3Y6gvtpaPdSSRKHCwkpu5dJ3CuI&gclid=Cj0KCQiAi9rJBhCYARIsALyPDttAFWGd3nniAERuxb4ptoFqmmlcKTHzpJcjqdLRfKL2fht4vA2MnYwaAh3ZEALw_wcB#&gid=1&pid=1 Sheet Music (1950s) https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/157388257327?chn=ps&_ul=GB&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=710-134428-41853-0&mkcid=2&mkscid=101&itemid=157388257327&targetid=2446966182456&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9215318&poi=&campaignid=21697381820&mkgroupid=188145534956&rlsatarget=pla-2446966182456&abcId=10027101&merchantid=562961780&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21697381820&gbraid=0AAAAAD_Lr1eIBEEA2sgHw9G4sJTtgCMVk&gclid=Cj0KCQiAi9rJBhCYARIsALyPDtuplVqdTKX1FbhPM3I9oCj475RCHouu5Z8X33k44Ki3uFeddGiG_4EaAiScEALw_wcB White Christmas - Original Version https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQyy8SpDpTY&list=RDQQyy8SpDpTY&start_radio=1 White Christmas - Carroll Gibbons and His Savoy Orpheans (Vocals by Edna Kaye) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GW66dHCSmec White Christmas - Frank Sinatra https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-IFxGllw2Vs&list=RD-IFxGllw2Vs&start_radio=1 CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:52 Catch Up 03:22 Christmas Special = White Christmas 04:42 Irving Berlin 20:37 The Origins of White Christmas 23:08 Discussing the Sheet Music Cover 24:59 Discussing the Lyrics 29:13 Discussing the Music 32:33 Discussing Versions: Bing Crosby 34:24 Charlie Spivak 35:48 Freddie Martin and His Orchestra 36:27 Carroll Gibbons and His Savoy Hotel Orpheans 39:21 Joe Loss and His Orchestra 40:34 Frank Sinatra 41:46 Harry Roy and His Mayfair Hotel Orchestra 42:45 What's Our Favourite? 43:57 If You Liked That You'll Like This 44:19 Christmas Bells at Eventide - Gracie Fields 44:59 Santa Clause Came in the Springtime - Benny Goodman 45:13 I'll Be Home For Christmas - Bing Crosby 46:17 I'm Sending a Letter to Santa Claus - Arthur Askey 47:07 The Fairy on the Christmas Tree - Gracie Fields 47:28 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - Judy Garland 49:17 Teaser for Next Season 50:40 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    51 min

  2. 10/11/2025

    (I've Got a Gal in) KalamaZOO - Glenn Miller, the Big Bands and our Big Series Finale

    In the final episode of Series 1 of The A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine end their alphabetical adventure with a swing - quite literally - as they explore Glenn Miller's 1942 smash hit (I've Got a Gal in) Kalamazoo. Written by Harry Warren and Mac Gordon, the song became a wartime favourite thanks to Miller's irresistible big band sound, Tex Beneke's smooth vocals and an unforgettable film appearance in Orchestra Wives featuring the dazzling Nicholas Brothers. Lili and Tom unpack the song's irresistible energy, the history of its writers, and why Kalamazoo really is more than just a funny name (though it's also the "Celery City"). Along the way, they revisit highlights from across the series - from George Formby's auction and Florence Desmond's lipstick, to Cole Porter's Parisian parties and the mystery of "special ginger beer." As the pair look back on the laughter, lyricism and legacy of the songs that kept spirits high through two world wars, they also look ahead - to a festive Christmas special and a live A to Z tour in 2026. It's a joyful finale full of swing, nostalgia and gratitude for the music (and listeners!) who've joined them along the way. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES Kitchen Cabaret - Wednesday 26th November - Doors 7.30pm / Show 8pm West View, Pink Barn, Lenton Road, Folkingham, NG34 0FE Tickets £15 - Email drusilla501@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1366518505000296&set=a.312306463754844 (I've Got a Gal in) Kalamazoo - Orchestra Wives (1942) https://youtu.be/fFv_PoZ2iP0?si=yhBbFBrq3NW5zO9n Orchestra Wives (1942) - Full Film (Colourised) https://youtu.be/1Mpktlw3hu8?si=AZB35xncCbZMrHH5 Glenn Miller - At Last (B Side to Kalamazoo) https://youtu.be/ajsptiTBPq4?si=pJcYx4y5Vv7DUwCr Sheet Music Cover https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/303257221212 Sheet Music Cover (Chappel's version) https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/314729356350 We found the answer to our own question - Arabian Riff https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arabian_riff Four King Sisters with the Rhythm Reys https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xs438XOeYXo&list=RDXs438XOeYXo&start_radio=1 Alice Babs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pwu-ZWvxG8&list=RD5pwu-ZWvxG8&start_radio=1 Ciro's Club Picture https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw220678/Ciros-Nightclub-group-of-jazz-musicians-possibly-including-Jack-Newman-Syd-Lawrence-and-Ray-Noble Lurland Dance Hall in Peacehaven (now a Mosque) https://www.peacehavenmosque.co.uk/ Beryldene Auction https://www.georgeformby.co.uk/auction.htm Melody Maker Archives https://www.worldradiohistory.com/Melody_Maker.htm CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:51 Catch Up 01:49 K = (I've Got a Gal in) KalamaZOO! 04:33 Harry Warren 06:32 Mac Gordon 08:00 Glenn Miller's Band 09:49 Discussing the Sheet Music Cover 11:24 Discussing the Lyrics 13:05 Discussing the Music 16:37 Discussing Versions : Glenn Miller 16:50 Jimmy Dorsey 17:14 Paul Whiteman 17:27 Andrews Sisters 19:52 Four King Sisters and the Rhythm Reys 20:16 Alice Babs 21:08 What's Our Favourite? 22:21 Discussing Series 1 26:10 Recapping Series 1 30:48 Discussing Themes and Common Threads 35:20 Mentioned in Dispatches 36:22 Teaser for Next Episode 37:19 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    38 min

  3. 10/04/2025

    You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To - Cole Porter: Paris Parties and Broadway Bangers

    In this episode of The A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine turn their attention to Cole Porter's romantic 1943 classic "You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To". Written for the film "Something to Shout About", the song quickly became a wartime favourite, speaking to the longing of couples separated by service and distance. Lili and Tom trace Porter's glittering - and often scandalous - life, from Yale fight songs and Parisian parties to Broadway triumphs like Anything Goes and Kiss Me, Kate. They also explore the many unforgettable recordings of this tune, including Dinah Shore's lush orchestral version, the cabaret intimacy of Hutch, Noël Coward's unmistakable style and swing-era takes by Six Hits and a Miss, Dick Jurgens and more. It's a story of longing, luxury, and one of the Great American Songbook's most enduring romantic ballads. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlister here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES The Bobolink Waltz https://www.sondheimguide.com/porter/miscsongs.html The Whiffenpoofs https://www.whiffenpoofs.com/ Bingo - Cole Porter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W74zCjVd9EQ Bull Dog - Cole Porter https://youtu.be/Bj8HJmhRw9w?si=n3k0Kr08PtqwhPxT Cole Porter in the French Foreign Legion https://www.legionofthelost.com/porter Old Fashioned Garden - Cole Porter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cYtuj0Tz7Q&list=PLTfDZkT4YVdT0RVEZr91EGXov2vMcVX7Z&index=12 Cole Porter's Paris House https://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/28/greathomesanddestinations/a-house-in-the-country-without-ever-leaving-central-paris.html Ca 'Rezzonico https://carezzonico.visitmuve.it/en/home/ Hollywood Canteen 1944 (Highlights) https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnurtxqhggI8yn0tAzDup9GmvPGK-iBCC&si=sJN7qQl3eqHMnZ7f Cole Porter at Waldorf Towers https://www.nyclgbtsites.org/site/cole-porter-residence-at-the-waldorf-towers/ Cole Porter Festival, Peru, Indiana https://www.coleporterfestival.org/ Cole Porter's Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/827/cole-porter Cole Porter's Piano https://www.untappedcities.com/cole-porter-piano-waldorf-astoria/ https://www.nyclgbtsites.org/site/cole-porter-residence-at-the-waldorf-towers/ Something to Shout About (Full Movie) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnPeo81-Ylo Sheet Music Cover https://www.ebay.com/itm/306175580246 Dick Jurgens https://youtu.be/eEK0gekO1ds Dinah Shore https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2w5KNm1LQ78&t=1s Emil Davis and his Society Orchestra https://youtu.be/tJ2-Qaih3N8?si=ZlAoQm9POCLmz4L4 Six Hits and a Miss https://youtu.be/W9s6nv0kAH8?si=CR1yf1izimIz81V0 Don Ameche https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uy13c-TLyY Leslie "Hutch" Hutchinson https://youtu.be/saHxtoNkPK0?si=9248FnfWGrfXsXtd Dick Bryer and the Song Spinners https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX00iq6S_-w Noel Coward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKArygvN7vg Noel and Cole - similarities and differences https://politicalscience.osu.edu/faculty/jmueller/NYTnoelcoleREV.pdf How I Hate to Get Up in the Morning - Irving Berlin https://youtu.be/71smG5d29to?si=K-0MjQxjboExSvL- You'll Never Walk Alone - Christine Johnson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlsUfOjVhrM Noel Coward - I'm Old Fashioned (by Jerome Kern) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3Ia2hhbFTg The Real American Folk Song is a Rag - George Gerswhin https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seADKw7s2fI London Pride - Noel Coward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnB2lewGcYc CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:50 Catch Up 02:20 Y = You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To 03:25 Cole Porter - His Early Years 05:59 Cole Porter - The Yale Years 09:02 Cole Porter - A Move to Paris 15:05 Cole Porter - Conquering Broadway 23:12 Cole Porter - Tragedy Strikes 28:00 Discussing the Sheet Music 31:41 Discussing the Lyrics 35:23 Discussing the Music 37:16 Discussing Versions: Dick Jurgen 38:53 Emil Davis and his Society Orchestra 39:27 Six Hits and a Miss 40:11 Don Ameche 40:50 Leslie "Hutch" Hutchinson 41:45 Dick Bryar and the Song Spinners 42:19 Noel Coward 43:57 Which Is Our Favourite? 44:23 If You Liked That You'll Like This 46:45 Mentioned in Dispatches 47:16 Teaser for Next Week 48:03 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    49 min

  4. 09/27/2025

    X Me Goodnight Sergeant Major - and Other Tipsy Tunes

    Finding a wartime song beginning with "X" was always going to be a challenge … so in true cheeky music-hall style, Lili Redman and Tom Carradine have bent the rules and chosen the comic classic Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major. First recorded in 1939 by Ambrose and his Orchestra, this lighthearted tune quickly became a wartime favourite, poking fun at army life while giving troops and civilians alike something to laugh (and sing) about. In this episode, Lili and Tom explore the careers of bandleader Ambrose, vocalist and trombonist Les Carew, and the pseudonymous songwriters behind the number. They dig into different recordings - from Ambrose to Arthur Askey to Billy Cotton - and uncover the wider world of British dance bands, Tin Pan Alley pseudonyms, and even novelty piano pieces. Expect drunken choruses, music hall gossip, and plenty of wartime humour in this fun-packed episode. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlister here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa (Cough Syrup) https://www.amazon.co.uk/Herbal-Formula-Cough-Syrup-300ml/dp/B001FAQXD2 Blakely Street, Stepney (where Ambrose lived) https://www.londonpicturearchive.org.uk/view-item?i=120008&WINID=1758879380875 George Tavern, Stepney https://thegeorgetavern.london/ Ciro's Club, Orange Street, London https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ciro%27s_(London) https://www.britishpathe.com/asset/64656/ https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/portrait/mw220678/Ciros-Nightclub-group-of-jazz-musicians-possibly-including-Jack-Newman-Syd-Lawrence-and-Ray-Noble https://www.jazzageclub.com/the-classy-ciros-restaurant-chain/370/ When Day Is Done - Ambrose's Signature Tune https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pa5TBTKFfdg When Her Mother Come Two - Ivor Novello (sung by Fenton Grey) https://youtu.be/VWhm4nS0eDA Dance Band Encyclopedia - Michael Thomas http://www.mgthomas.co.uk/dancebands/musicians/musicianpages/ambrose.htm Little Tich's Big Boots Dance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFB4oHajwGw Titch's Big Boots - Water Rats Museum https://www.gowr.co.uk/museum/ Tichbourne Complainant https://bigginhill.co.uk/littletich.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tichborne_case Les Carew - trombonist and singer https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/obituary-les-carew-1367973.html Jack Hylton and Igor Stravinsky https://www.jackhylton.com/hylton-stravinsky Patricia Hammond https://patriciahammond.com/ I'm Gonna Get Lit Up - Richard Suart https://youtu.be/HyMwe0YHSfQ?si=VZZWxVdXerwrDLO0 Show Me The Way to Go Home - as it appears in Jaws https://youtu.be/6XK3fLCSUAM?si=7ybSOf1RwW7R7eIU Goodnight Sweetheart - Sitcom (1992-2016) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106014/ Steve Boyce - Costumier / Panto Dame https://www.instagram.com/stevesteveboyce/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:48 Catch Up 02:20 X = Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major 03:39 Bert Ambrose 05:33 Differences Between the American and British Sound 10:15 Bert Ambrose's Success 14:19 Les Carew: The Voice Behind the Song 20:32 How Did We First Discover the Song? 21:00 Discussing the Sheet Music 24:16 Discussing the Lyrics 25:51 Discussing the Music 27:11 Discussing Versions: Ambrose 28:44 Arthur Askey 31:58 Billy Cotton 32:57 Which Version Is Our Favourite? 33:27 If You Liked That You'll Like This 38:44 Mentioned in Dispatches 39:42 Teaser for Next Week 40:30 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    41 min

  5. 09/20/2025

    Wartime "When …" Songs - Songs of Hope and Homecomings

    In this episode of The A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine take a special detour into the many songs of the 1930s and '40s that begin with the word "When". From the poignant hope of When They Sound the Last All Clear and When the Lights Go On Again (All Over the World), to the transatlantic charm of When the Swallows Come Back to Capistrano and the early nostalgia of When the Poppies Bloom Again, these songs capture the wartime longing for peace, reunion, and better days ahead. Along the way, Lili and Tom explore the songwriters behind these tunes - from Denmark Street hitmakers Box & Cox, to Hughie Charles and Leon René - as well as the unforgettable voices of Vera Lynn, the Ink Spots, Glenn Miller, Joe Loss and many more. It's an episode rich in music, memory and the melodies that carried people through the darkest of times. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlister here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES Tebay Services https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2021/jul/24/tebay-m6-motorway-service-station-from-heaven We've All Life Before Us - Caroline Cecil Bose https://www.carolinececilbose.co.uk/ Denmark Street - London's Tin Pan Alley https://www.layersoflondon.org/map/records/denmark-street-tin-pan-alley  https://www.theguardian.com/music/musicblog/2015/jan/20/london-music-scene-denmark-street-tin-pan-alley https://apollo-magazine.com/denmark-street-london-music-tin-pan-alley/ Archer Street London - The Musician's Hang Out https://www.muhistory.com/from-the-archive-4-archer-street-london/ Paddy Roberts - Tattooed Lady https://youtu.be/aMCqgUANkmM Woburn Abbey Sculpture Gallery https://www.woburn.co.uk/the-estate/woburn-abbey-and-gardens/ The Ink Spots - In Old Shantytown (including "Talking Bass") https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuZuBGM_Hcw The Ink Spots https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQVe-hmaBHg The Return on the Swallows Capistrano https://www.missionsjc.com/st-josephs-day-and-return-of-the-swallows-celebration/ I'm Sending You The Seigfried Line to Hang Your Washing On https://www.sheetmusicwarehouse.co.uk/20th-century-songs-i/im-sending-you-the-siegfried-line-to-hang-your-washing-on-featuring/ Air Raid Siren - Alert https://youtu.be/p3rP3htV0zc?si=ivzPWLJn2O-C2_B- Air Raid Siren - All Clear https://youtu.be/Ztu0M6PXp1g?si=Ilb3bP1_BNsA5aRC Black Cat Cabaret at Cafe de Paris https://youtu.be/3ePTXDG4UV8?si=-nDfqX1dVCPWHJ-q The Cotton Club https://www.nyhistory.org/blogs/the-aristocrat-of-harlem-the-cotton-club English Version vs American Version of "When the Lights Go On Again" English: https://www.alamy.com/stock-image-ww2-music-sheet-when-the-lights-go-on-again-all-over-the-world-1942-165355652.html American: https://poshmark.com/listing/When-The-Lights-Go-On-Again-1942-Vintage-Sheet-Music-Piano-Seiler-Marcus-63d52769ddab407f287909bf There's a Kind of Hush - The Carpenters https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CX83EQA8dc When Can I Have a Banana Again - Dad's Army https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86-6ndAQaxg Andy Eastwood http://www.andyeastwood.com/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:50 Catch Up 02:24 W = "When …" Songs 05:11 When the Poppies Bloom Again 14:42 When the Swallows Come Back to Capistrano 24:17 When They Sound the Last All Clear 30:59 When the Lights Go On Again (All Over the World) 38:12 If You Liked That You'll Like This 42:44 Mentioned in Dispatches 43:47 Teaser for Next Week 44:24 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    45 min

  6. 09/13/2025

    La Vie en Rose - Piaf, Passion and Occupied Paris

    In this episode of The A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the romantic and iconic "La Vie en Rose", the song that became Edith Piaf's signature. They trace its creation in post-war Paris, from Piaf's own lyrics to Louiguy's melody and Marianne Michel's crucial lyric tweak that transformed "Les Choses en Rose" into "La Vie en Rose". The discussion delves into Piaf's extraordinary and often tragic life - from her childhood in a Normandy brothel, to her discovery in the streets of Paris, to her wartime years performing under Occupation and her daring role in helping prisoners escape. Along the way, Tom and Lili uncover Django Reinhardt's remarkable story of survival and innovation, examine the differences between the French original and Mack David's American translation, and reflect on why Piaf's chanson endures as one of the most beloved songs of the 20th century. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlister here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES Belvoir Castle https://www.belvoircastle.com/ Bluebird Bells @ Belvoir Castle https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOB-N5pjOHm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Lili Drenched at Belvoir Castle https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1417482409903905&set=a.312306463754844 Talbot House https://www.talbothouse.be/en Talbot House - Concert Party Pictures https://www.facebook.com/talbothouse.be/posts/pfbid0gsiYG8fb3sFqutLhLp6WbpZauSxPf66TasbTstnLX5UciNBS5M2hMSFpF8YVZzh1l Don't Dilly Dally - London and SE Tour https://www.dontdillydally.co.uk/ Kenneth Williams - My Crepe Suzette https://youtu.be/6MbZjzIg5w8?si=UtTmkGpnMVwym8n_ Allo Allo - English Policeman https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYNXMWRdCx0 Edith Piaf - La Vie en Rose https://youtu.be/rzeLynj1GYM?si=mHQw9e1H2YsIYTuN Edith Cavell https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/london-statues-and-monuments/edith-cavell/ Edith Piaf - No Regrets https://youtu.be/rzy2wZSg5ZM?si=gFlJGJ4pWXZrcKA5 Grand Hotel de Clermont - Hotel from Hell! https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g187147-d3477361-Reviews-Grand_Hotel_de_Clermont-Paris_Ile_de_France.html Kilburn Gaumont State Cinema http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/KilburnTheatres.htm#gaumont http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/Kilburn/Tour/KilburnStateTour.htm One-Two-Two Brothel in Paris https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/one-two-two-wartime-brothel Edith Piaf Grave https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/1334/%C3%A9dith-piaf Saint-Saëns - The Swan https://youtu.be/3qrKjywjo7Q?si=Cq6SWOGdKsGMT-eG   Edith Piad - L'accordéoniste https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhu-0IBZm5s Be Our Guest https://youtu.be/afzmwAKUppU?si=ks55JKywYhSnMYbp Around the World - Victor Young and Harold Adamson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hScyoga67Tw Fabulous Places - Doctor Doolittle https://youtu.be/10AMqdJUcFY?si=eAUMRoaeQpvLaHAM Charles Trenet - La Mer https://youtu.be/PXQh9jTwwoA Mein Kleiner Gruner Kaktus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjMw0kEw6B0 Knees Up Mother Brown (with Verse) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrvDiTB8QwA International Al Jolson Society https://www.jolson.org/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:49 Catch Up 03:03 V = La Vie En Rose 07:22 Edith Piaf 11:46 Django Reinhart 17:49 Edith Piaf During WW2 26:08 Discussing the Sheet Music 27:45 When Did We First Discover It? 28:32 Discussing the Lyrics 34:14 Discussing the Music 39:01 Discussing Versions: Edith Piaf 40:39 If You Liked That You'd Like This 46:51 Mentioned in Dispatches 49:23 Teaser for Next Week 49:57 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    51 min

  7. 08/30/2025

    The U.S.A. by Day and the R.A.F. by Night - Satire in the Shadow of Hamburg

    In this episode of The A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine uncover the wild and witty "The USA by Day and the RAF by Night" - a 1944 novelty song that pokes fun at the Nazis while celebrating the Allied air campaign. Written by American comedy writer Hal Block and journalist-turned-lyricist Bob Musel, the song turns bombing raids into satire, complete with cheeky impressions of Hitler, Himmler and Goering. Lili and Tom trace its history from the Eighth Air Force shows in London to its only known recording by Al Trace and his Musicians. Along the way, they dive into the lives of Block and Musel, explore the grim context of Operation Gomorrah and the firestorm over Hamburg and reflect on how humour was used to process and soften the horrors of total war. Expect musical gags, cartoonish sheet music covers and even a few unexpected Gracie Fields connections. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlister here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES Twinwood https://twinwoodevents.com/ Belvoir Castle Afternoon Tea Festival https://www.belvoircastle.com/event/cG9zdDoxNjc= Johnny Victory http://johnnyvictory.com/ DJ Doctor Swing https://www.facebook.com/DJDrSwing/ The Bluebird Belles https://www.vocalharmonytrio.co.uk/ Stage Door Canteen - Film 1943 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBgvmX9b2uU Operation Gommorah https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-43546839 https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/operation-gomorrah-first-firestorms The U.S.A. by Day and the R.A.F. by Night - Sheet Music https://www.historyonthenet.com/authentichistory/1939-1945/3-music/08-Axis-Allies/1944_SM_The_USA_By_Day_And_The_RAF_By_Night.html#sm Lil Abner - Al Capp https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Li%27l_Abner Pistol Packin' Mama - Song https://youtu.be/9G2T0ad1-h4 Pistol Packin' Mama - Plane https://www.americanairmuseum.com/archive/aircraft/42-40768 Bomber Command Song https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bomber_Command_(song) https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/1274494 CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:51 Catch Up 03:02 U = The U.S.A by Day and the R.A.F. at Night 04:44 Hal Block 12:09 Bob Musel 13:46 The Historical Background to the Song 24:39 Albert Trace 27:08 Discussing the Sheet Music 28:41 Discussing the Lyrics 31:16 Discussing the Music 33:28 Discussing Recordings: Al Trace 37:49 If You Liked That You'll Like This 41:10 Mentioned in Dispatches 42:53 Teaser for Next Week 43:57 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    45 min

  8. 08/23/2025

    There'll Always Be an England – Patriotism, Pride and Peril

    In this episode of The A to Z of Wartime Song, hosts Lili Redman and Tom Carradine explore the powerful patriotic anthem "There'll Always Be an England". Written by Ross Parker and Hughie Charles in the summer of 1939, the song captured the hopes of a nation on the brink of war and quickly became a staple of the home front, recorded by everyone from Billy Cotton to Gracie Fields. Lili and Tom trace its journey from the film Discoveries to stirring moments of defiance on land and sea - including the crew of HMS Barham, who sang it as their ship went down in 1941. Along the way, they dive into the lives of Parker and Charles, the remarkable career of broadcaster Carroll Levis, and the way songs like this shaped morale at the darkest times. They also reflect on what it means to "reclaim" such an anthem today: is there a way to be proud of English identity without exclusion, and how can music help us rediscover unity and resilience. It's an episode full of history, harmony and the enduring power of song to steady the spirit. SPOTIFY PLAYLIST You can listen to ALL of the songs that Tom and Lili talk about in the episode on their Spotify playlister here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1FQDrBphYqYLAuN6Jm01PN?si=b777dc33a703408a REFERENCES Siren - Lili Redman @ Edinburgh Fringe https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/lili-redman-siren Ramsey 1940s Weekend https://ramsey1940s.co.uk/ Ross Parker - Colchester Pill Boxes where he wrote There'll Always Be An England https://colchesterheritage.co.uk/Monument/MCC4970 Tom's Visit to Chick Henderson's Grave https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine/posts/pfbid02hWwpT994Cp45NbTnvP5tecLSADWHiLiCQL6PmB2TGkpvb2aUQAWatzxMeYiock5Sl Carroll Levis and the Talent Show Revolution https://youtu.be/u3OVTyQujrs?si=jqKQKz7W5n-RlOH Two Thousand Women - Film https://youtu.be/mYLa2KyreH8 Australian Sheet Music Version https://nla.gov.au/nla.obj-172613864/view?partId=nla.obj-172613878 St Mary's Guildhall Coventry https://www.stmarysguildhall.co.uk/ Coventry Scout Gang Show https://www.coventrygangshow.co.uk/ Billy Scoot Coomber and his Singing Grenadiers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EjXBooW_0hs Ramsey Spitfire Flypast (perfect timing!) https://youtu.be/WHkKR5odqsg?si=RZBHar4HkIoMGcSi&t=748 CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 00:51 Catch Up 02:24 Reclaiming Patriotic Songs 04:55 T = There'll Always Be An England 05:37 Ross Parker and Hughie Charles 10:36 The Origins of the Song 11:38 Carroll Levis 12:49 Eric Maschwitz 17:25 Carroll Levis and the Talent Show Revolution 20:22 Other Appearances of the Song 23:52 Discussing the Sheet Music 26:47 Discussing the Lyrics 30:25 Discussing the Music 35:07 Discussing Recordings: Billy Cotton 37:25 The Band of the Coldstream Guards 39:05 Jack Payne and his Band 40:21 Joe Loss and his Orchestra 41:23 Billy Scott Coomber and his Singing Grenadiers 43:24 Gracie Fields 43:44 Other Recordings 44:02 What Is Our Favourite? 44:35 If You Liked That You'll Like This 48:16 Mentioned in Dispatches 49:05 Teaser for Next Week 49:57 Outro SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS You can follow the podcast on social media: http://instagram.com/warsongspod https://www.facebook.com/warsongspod Find more information about Lili Redman here: https://liliredman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lili__redman/ https://www.facebook.com/ScalaLil Or Tom Carradine here: https://www.tomcarradine.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tomcarradine https://www.facebook.com/mrtomcarradine CONTACT THE PODCAST If there's a wartime song that you think they should discuss, or if you have a personal or family story connected to one, drop them a line at warsongspod@gmail.com  to be "Mentioned in Dispatches". LISTENING LINKS Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7ktQ4nyudmPRLcCNyNxEfv?si=ac9e1babe6834f2b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-a-to-z-of-wartime-song/id1806037318 If you've enjoyed this episode Lili and Tom would be grateful if you'd leave a review and make sure you've subscribed and turned on notifications so you'll never miss an episode.

    51 min
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About

🎵 Hosted by @tomcarradine & @lili_redman ✨ Exploring iconic songs from the frontlines to the home front 📜 History, harmony & heart from WWI to WWII

Information

  • Creator
    Tom Carradine and Lili Redman
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    The A to Z of Wartime Song