Who Wrote “North to Alaska”?
“North to Alaska” is a popular song that has been performed by various artists throughout the years. But who actually wrote this timeless classic? The song was co-written by two talented individuals, Mike Phillips and Johnny Horton.
Mike Phillips, also known as Mike Phillips-Gast, was a songwriter and musician. Born on October 5, 1932, in Tennessee, Phillips had a knack for creating catchy tunes. He began his career in the music industry as a staff songwriter for Acuff-Rose Publications, one of the leading music publishing companies at the time. Phillips worked with several notable artists, including Johnny Horton, with whom he co-wrote “North to Alaska.”
Johnny Horton, born on April 30, 1925, in Los Angeles, California, was a country music singer known for his energetic performances and storytelling abilities. He achieved great success during the late 1950s and early 1960s with hits such as “The Battle of New Orleans” and “Sink the Bismarck.” Horton collaborated with Mike Phillips on multiple songs, including the iconic “North to Alaska.”
Released in 1960, “North to Alaska” was written to be the theme song for the movie of the same name, starring John Wayne. The film is set during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century and follows the adventures of two prospectors in Alaska. The song perfectly captures the spirit of the film, with its lively melody and lyrics that reflect the excitement and challenges of the gold rush era.
“North to Alaska” quickly became a hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its popularity was further boosted by Johnny Horton’s captivating performance, which showcased his distinctive voice and his ability to bring a story to life through music.
FAQs about “North to Alaska”:
Q: Was “North to Alaska” written specifically for the movie?
A: Yes, the song was written as the theme song for the movie “North to Alaska.” It perfectly complements the film’s storyline and captures the essence of the Klondike Gold Rush.
Q: Who has covered “North to Alaska”?
A: Over the years, numerous artists have covered “North to Alaska.” Besides Johnny Horton’s original version, notable renditions of the song have been recorded by Frankie Laine, Hank Williams Jr., and Dwight Yoakam, among others.
Q: Did “North to Alaska” win any awards?
A: While “North to Alaska” did not win any major awards, it garnered significant recognition and became one of Johnny Horton’s most successful songs. It remains a beloved classic in the country music genre.
Q: What is the significance of “North to Alaska”?
A: The song holds cultural significance as it captures the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush, a critical period in American history. Its catchy melody and evocative lyrics have made it a timeless favorite among fans of country and folk music.
Q: Are there any other notable songs written by Mike Phillips and Johnny Horton?
A: Yes, Mike Phillips and Johnny Horton collaborated on several other songs. Some of their notable works include “Sink the Bismarck,” “Honky-Tonk Man,” and “Battle of New Orleans.”
In conclusion, “North to Alaska” was co-written by Mike Phillips and Johnny Horton. This iconic song captures the excitement and challenges of the Klondike Gold Rush and has become a beloved classic in the country music genre. With its catchy melody and evocative lyrics, “North to Alaska” continues to captivate audiences even after six decades since its release.