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"Happy Birthday to You" is a traditional song that has become a global anthem for celebrating birthdays. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic tune:

1. Origins: The melody of "Happy Birthday to You" comes from the 19th-century song "Good Morning to All," which was composed by Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill. The original lyrics were different, but the melody remained.

2. Copyright Controversy: Until recently, the song was under copyright protection, leading to legal issues for those wanting to use it in public performances or commercial purposes. However, a U.S. court ruled in 2016 that the copyright claims were not valid, making the song part of the public domain.

3. Worldwide Recognition: The song is recognized as the most widely sung song in the English language. It has been translated into various languages, making it a universal part of birthday celebrations.

4. Recordings: "Happy Birthday to You" has been recorded by numerous artists across different genres. Despite its simplicity, it remains a popular and enduring choice for birthday celebrations.

5. Highest-Grossing Song: Before the copyright ruling, the song was considered the highest-grossing song of all time due to the royalties generated from its extensive use in films, TV shows, and public performances.

6. Longevity: The song has stood the test of time, and its basic structure and lyrics have remained largely unchanged for over a century, emphasizing its timeless appeal.

7. Singing Telegrams: In the mid-20th century, singing telegrams were a popular way to send birthday greetings, often featuring a performer singing a personalized version of "Happy Birthday to You" to the recipient.

8. Alternate Lyrics: Over the years, people have come up with humorous or alternative lyrics to sing alongside the traditional ones, adding a playful twist to the celebration.

"Happy Birthday to You" continues to bring joy and festivity to birthday celebrations around the world.