Who Sang 'I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas'?

The song I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas was originally performed by 10-year-old Gloria Cameron in 1953, making her the definitive voice behind this whimsical and enduring holiday classic. This cheerful tune, written by John Rox, captures the imaginative wish of a child who desires a live hippopotamus under the tree instead of traditional toys—a unique twist that helped it stand out among mid-century Christmas recordings. The full title, I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas (Hippo the Hero), is often searched by fans curious about its origin, and understanding who sang I want a hippopotamus for christmas reveals not only a fun piece of pop culture history but also the charm of early novelty holiday music.

Origins and Creation of the Song

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas was composed in 1953 by John Rox, a public relations executive at the time working for the American Broadcasting Company (ABC). Though not a professional songwriter, Rox penned the lyrics after being inspired by a group of children singing at his daughter’s school. He wanted to create a song that reflected a child’s genuine, albeit unusual, holiday wish—something both humorous and heartfelt. The idea of wanting a hippopotamus came from Rox’s observation that kids often dream big, even if their dreams are impractical.

Rox submitted the song to RCA Victor, which quickly recognized its potential as a novelty Christmas track. They decided to record it with a real child vocalist to enhance authenticity and emotional appeal. That’s when they selected Gloria Cameron, a fifth-grader from Bay Shore, New York, who had previously participated in local radio programs and had a clear, confident singing voice perfect for the playful yet sincere tone of the song.

Gloria Cameron: The Voice Behind the Hit

Gloria Cameron was just 10 years old when she recorded I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas in 1953. Born in 1943, she was an ordinary schoolgirl with a passion for performing. Her performance on the track showcased remarkable poise and clarity, helping the song gain immediate attention. Unlike many adult-sung children’s songs of the era, having an actual child deliver the lyrics gave the song a sense of innocence and realism that resonated with audiences.

The recording session took place in New York City, and Cameron recalled in later interviews that she didn’t fully grasp the song’s potential at the time. She simply enjoyed singing it. Her delivery—earnest, slightly mischievous, and full of holiday spirit—became the gold standard for the track. It was released under the RCA Victor label and quickly climbed regional charts, eventually becoming one of the most requested Christmas songs on radio stations across the United States.

Chart Performance and Cultural Impact

Though I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas never reached number one on the national Billboard charts, it achieved significant popularity during the 1953 and 1954 holiday seasons. Its success was bolstered by widespread radio play and promotional appearances. One notable moment came when Cameron performed the song live on The Ed Sullivan Show, then known as Toast of the Town, amplifying its reach to millions of households.

The song’s humor lies in its literal interpretation of a child’s fantasy. Lines like 'I don't want a doll, no dinky Tinker Toy, I want a hippopotamus to play with and enjoy' highlight the contrast between conventional gifts and a wildly extravagant request. Yet, the narrator insists the hippo would be well-behaved and useful—'He would eat native plants (they grow right in the yard!)'—adding a layer of comedic logic that delighted listeners.

Over the decades, the song has been embraced as a cult favorite among Christmas novelty tracks. It frequently appears on compilation albums such as A Treasury of Great Children's Songs and modern playlists focusing on quirky holiday tunes. Its resurgence in digital media, especially on platforms like YouTube and Spotify, has introduced it to new generations.

Cover Versions and Modern Interpretations

While Gloria Cameron’s version remains the original and most iconic, several artists have covered I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas over the years. Notable renditions include those by:

• Brenda Lee – Known for Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, Lee brought her youthful energy to a cover in the 1960s.
• Shirley Temple – Though unconfirmed as an official release, Temple reportedly performed the song on television specials.
• Deana Martin – Daughter of Dean Martin, she included a jazzy take on the song in her 2011 holiday album.
• Digital Parody Artists – Internet creators have produced animated videos and satirical versions, often using Cameron’s original audio.

Despite these reinterpretations, none have matched the cultural footprint of the 1953 recording. Many streaming services and holiday radio stations still default to Gloria Cameron’s version when playing the track, preserving its legacy.

Lyrical Themes and Why It Resonates

At its core, I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas taps into universal childhood emotions: imagination, desire, and the belief that anything is possible during the holidays. The lyrics cleverly balance absurdity with sincerity. The singer isn’t asking for wealth or luxury; she wants a companion—an animal friend to share adventures with. This emotional depth beneath the humor helps explain why the song endures.

Moreover, the narrative includes a subtle moral arc. The child’s mother initially doubts the feasibility of the gift, but by the end, the hippo becomes a hero—saving the zoo from closure through public attraction. This twist transforms the song from a simple wish list into a mini-fairy tale, reinforcing values like kindness, responsibility, and the joy of giving.

Availability and Where to Find the Original Recording

Fans searching for who sang I want a hippopotamus for christmas can easily access Gloria Cameron’s original 1953 recording through multiple platforms:

• Spotify – Available on various Christmas novelty playlists.
• Apple Music – Searchable under the title and artist name.
• YouTube – Official uploads and fan-made videos featuring the audio.
• Amazon Music – Included in retro holiday collections.
• Internet Archive – Offers free, high-quality MP3 downloads of the original vinyl transfer.

For collectors, original 45 RPM records of the single are rare but occasionally appear on auction sites like eBay. Reissues have also been released in CD box sets dedicated to vintage Christmas music.

Common Misconceptions About the Song

Over time, several myths have emerged about I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas. Addressing these clarifies who truly sang I want a hippopotamus for christmas and preserves historical accuracy:

Myth	Reality
The song was sung by Shirley Temple.	No evidence supports this; Gloria Cameron was the original artist.
The hippo wish was based on a real event.	Fictional—though some zoos ran promotions inspired by the song.
The song was a #1 hit.	It charted regionally but did not top national sales charts.
It was banned due to animal cruelty concerns.	No credible ban existed; the rumor likely stems from satire.

Educational Use and Pop Culture Appearances

Due to its catchy melody and imaginative lyrics, I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas has found a place in educational settings. Teachers use it in elementary classrooms to discuss themes like:

• Creative writing: Students write letters to Santa with unconventional requests.
• Animal habitats: Lessons connect the song to discussions about where hippos live naturally.
• Music appreciation: It serves as an example of mid-20th century novelty songs.

The song has also appeared in TV shows, commercials, and animated shorts. For instance, it was featured in episodes of Family Guy and The Simpsons as a humorous nod to odd holiday traditions. Retailers like Target and Hallmark have used snippets in festive ads, further embedding it in seasonal culture.

Why the Song Still Matters Today

In an age dominated by digital entertainment and commercialized holidays, I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas stands out for its simplicity and charm. It reminds listeners of the magic of childhood wonder—the kind that imagines a hippo grazing in the backyard as perfectly normal. As people search online for answers to queries like who sang I want a hippopotamus for christmas, they’re not just seeking trivia; they’re reconnecting with nostalgia and the lighthearted side of the season.

Furthermore, the song exemplifies how a single creative idea, paired with authentic performance, can leave a lasting mark. John Rox’s composition and Gloria Cameron’s delivery together created something timeless—an achievement rarely replicated in today’s music landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who wrote 'I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas'?

The song was written by John Rox in 1953.

Is the original singer of 'I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas' still alive?

As of 2024, there is no public confirmation of Gloria Cameron’s current status; she largely stepped away from public life after childhood.

Was the hippo in the song real?

No, the hippopotamus is fictional and part of the song’s imaginative storyline.

Can I play the original version on streaming services?

Yes, Gloria Cameron’s 1953 recording is available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and other major platforms.

Has the song ever been used in movies or TV shows?

Yes, it has been referenced or played in shows like Family Guy, The Simpsons, and various holiday specials.