If Hollywood lore is to be believed, the biggest hit of 1928 was written as a joke. Given a last-minute plea for a sentimental song for Al Jolson’s upcoming talkie The Singing Fool, Ray Henderson, Buddy DeSylva, and Lew Brown decided to write the corniest song they could. Jolson took “Sonny Boy” to heart, though, and audiences loved his performance. “Sonny Boy” and The Singing Fool were the top-selling song and film that year. Both join the public domain in 30 days. #PublicDomainDayCountdown