who made rudolph the red nosed reindeer

The song "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" was written by Johnny Marks. He was inspired by a poem written by his brother-in-law, Robert May, for a children's coloring book. Marks adapted the poem into a song and it was first performed by Gene Autry in 1949. The song quickly became a holiday classic and has been covered by many artists over the years. It is one of the most recognizable and beloved songs of the Christmas season.