The initial idea for the album came from Donnie Ierner, the President of
Columbia Records who suggested that Connick produce an album of songs that the
baby boomers grew up with. In May 2003, Harry Connick Jr entered Capitol Studios to make both
Harry for the Holidays and
Only You. Whilst playing the piano once used by
Nat King Cole, he led his big band through the selection of Christmas songs and 1950s and 1960s. On his website, Harry Connick Jr. explained that he wanted to perform songs with a real history to them. "Part of what I wanted to do on this record, "was to focus on songs that had their second success in the Fifties. "My Prayer" is a great example. I know that most people associate it with
the Platters, but I knew the
Ink Spots' version from the Thirties as well. That's why I picked things like "My Blue Heaven" and "I Only Have Eyes for You," songs I remember hearing as a kid that have a real history." ==Track listing==