Whispering Grass

"Whispering Grass (Don't Tell the Trees)" is a popular song written by Fred Fisher and his daughter Doris Fisher. The notion of "whispering grass" which reveals a person's secrets extends back to Greek mythology, notably the myth of Midas.

The song was first recorded by Erskine Hawkins & His Orchestra in 1940. The Ink Spots featuring Bill Kenny also recorded it the same year. A live instrumental version was played and recorded by Johnny Hodges with Duke Ellington and his orchestra in the Cristal Ballroom, Fargo, North Dakota, also in 1940.

The song has been covered by numerous singers, including Ringo Starr on his 1970 album Sentimental Journey and Sandy Denny on her 1974 album Like an Old Fashioned Waltz. In 1975, a version by the British actors Windsor Davies and Don Estelle topped the UK singles chart.