The Original Grinch Song: You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch, and the Man Behind It

Who Sang the Original Grinch Song?

The iconic grumpy voice of the Grinch in the beloved animated cartoon How the Grinch Stole Christmas belongs to a talented yet unsung voice actor, Thurl Ravenscroft. This 1966 animated special is a Christmas classic, and Thurl Ravenscroft provided the unforgettable singing of You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.

About Thurl Ravenscroft

Thurl Ravenscroft was a voice actor known for his deep, bass-like voice. He also lent his voice to the iconic character Tony the Tiger in Kellogg's Frosted Flakes commercials, a role he played for over 50 years. Despite his significant contribution to the world of voice acting, his voice credit for the How the Grinch Stole Christmas was left out in the original broadcast, causing much confusion among fans.

The Singing Performance and Its Legacy

Thurl Ravenscroft's version of You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch is one of his most famous performances. The song was performed with lyrics written by none other than Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known by his pen name, Dr. Seuss, creator of the original How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Ravenscroft's distinctive voice perfectly suited the character of the grumpy Grinch.

The Special Edition of 1994

In 1994, a special edition of the original 1966 cartoon was reintroduced on Turner Network Television (TNT). Notably, this special edition included an additional 20 minutes, featuring Phil Hartman as the narrator. This expanded version provided fans with an extra treat, enhancing the magic of the Grinch story.

The Song and Its Various Performances

While You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch originated in the 1966 cartoon, the song has transcended its original context and remains a beloved Christmas classic. It's been covered by numerous artists, including Rachel Platten, Penthrox, Alessia Cara, Ceelo Green, Lindsey Sterling, and Darius Rucker. These covers not only add new life to the song but also introduce it to new generations of music listeners.

Conclusion

The original Grinch song, You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch, was a magnificent performance by Thurl Ravenscroft, bringing to life the character created by Dr. Seuss. Ravenscroft's deep, resonant voice added a unique layer of character to a beloved classic. Even today, the song continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world, and it serves as a reminder of the magic of early animated specials and the talent behind them.