To Each His Own (song) – 1946
“To Each His Own” is a popular song with music written by Jay Livingston and lyrics by Ray Evans. The song was published in 1946.
Original 1946 recordings
In 1946, four different versions hit number one on the Billboard charts in the United States.
Eddy Howard reached number one after debuting on the chart with his version of the song on July 11, 1946. Released by Majestic Records as catalog number 7188 and 1070, the single lasted nineteen weeks on the chart, reaching the top spot on August 10 for three weeks and returning for two more weeks on October 5. The two Howard releases had different B sides — Cynthia’s in Love on Majestic 7188 and Careless on Majestic 1070.
Freddy Martin & his Orchestra, featuring vocals by Stuart Wade, and Tony Martin both had their versions debut on the chart on August 8, 1946, with each remaining on the chart for twelve weeks. While Freddy Martin, whose version was released by RCA Victor Records, was able to top the chart for two weeks, Tony Martin’s version, released by Mercury Records, peaked at number four.
The next version to reach the Billboard charts was performed by The Modernaires with Paula Kelly. Released by Columbia Records, together they debuted on the chart on August 15, 1946, lasting six weeks on the chart and peaking at number five.
The final recording to reach number one was by The Ink Spots, which was released by Decca Records. Reaching the charts on August 29, 1946, it remained on the chart for eleven weeks, reaching its number-one peak on September 21.
Sam Cooke recorded it for his LP, Try a Little Love. Frankie Laine had a minor revival with the song in 1968, reaching number two on the Billboard Easy Listening chart. The Platters also hit the charts with this tune in 1960. Johnny Hartman included a version on his 1959 And I Thought About You album. Keely Smith recorded it for her 1962 Dot LP, Cherokeely Swings.
Singer Ronnie Dove recorded the song for his Right or Wrong (Ronnie Dove album) album in 1964.