The lyrics were written by Theodor "Dr. Seuss '' Geisel, the music was composed by Albert Hague, and the song was performed by Thurl Ravenscroft. The song 's lyrics describe the Grinch as being foul, bad - mannered and sinister, using increasingly creative put - downs, metaphors and similes, beginning with the opening line "you 're a mean one, Mr. Grinch ''.
who sang you're a mean one mr. grinch in the 1966 animated tv short
Thurl Ravenscroft