"Lili Marlen" by Lale Andersen

This is a recording of Lale Andersen's original disc from 1939* [E.G. 6993 – HMV]

The song became the unofficial anthem of both the German and British armies.

Goebbels hated it but recognised its sentimental value to the Nazi troops. Lale Andersen, herself, was opposed to its being used by the Nazis but had no say in the matter.

The record sold over a million copies and Lale was awarded a Gold DIsc in recognition of this - then - unusual volume of sales. Two presentation Gold Discs would have been made: one for the artiste, and one for HMV which they hung in their flagship store in Oxford Street, London. I rescued this when it was thrown into a skip during the 1960's refurbishment.

[*It is out of copyright being over 70 years old and subject to EU legislation.]

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