when did rudolph the red-nosed reindeer song come out

The song "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was first recorded in 1949 by Gene Autry. It has since become a classic Christmas song and a beloved part of the holiday season. The song tells the story of a young reindeer named Rudolph who was born with a shiny, red nose that set him apart from the other reindeer. Despite his unique appearance, Rudolph is ridiculed and rejected by his peers until one day he is called upon to guide Santa's sleigh on a foggy Christmas Eve.