Originally aired on NPR’s 1A on February 13, 2021. Featuring original interviews with Kermit the Frog, Paul Williams, Frank Oz, Cheryl Henson, and Brian Jay Jones.

“Rainbow Connection” was composed by Paul Williams and Kenneth Ascher as the opening song for 1979’s The Muppet Movie. Originally performed by Kermit the Frog (voiced by Jim Henson), “Rainbow Connection” has since been recorded by dozens of artists, including Willie Nelson, Gwen Stefani, Debbie Harry, and Kacey Musgraves.

On this installment of The Sounds of America: Paul Williams remembers writing “Rainbow Connection,” Muppeteer Frank Oz describes filming The Muppet Movie, Cheryl Henson shares memories of her father, author Brian Jay Jones shares behind-the-scenes details, and Kermit the Frog reflects on hopes and dreams.

“Rainbow Connection” is being inducted into the National Recording Registry. Every year, the U.S. Library of Congress selects 25 recordings to preserve for all time in the National Recording Registry. These recordings include music, speeches, public events, native languages, historical moments, sporting events… audio that’s important to our American culture and heritage. The Sounds of America profiles Registry selections every year.