We have a collection of 45 arrangements for Traditional - Happy Birthday
Who originally composed the Happy Birthday song? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is one of the most well-known and widely sung songs in the world. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic tune:
Origins: The melody for "Happy Birthday to You" is believed to have originated from the 19th-century song "Good Morning to All," which was written by Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill. The lyrics were originally, "Good morning to you, good morning to you, good morning, dear children, good morning to all."
The Birthday Song: The lyrics "Happy Birthday to You" were added to the melody later, and it became the popular birthday song we know today. The origins of who added these lyrics are somewhat disputed, but it's widely attributed to Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill.
Copyright: Until recently, "Happy Birthday to You" was under copyright protection, owned by Warner/Chappell Music. This led to the company collecting royalties whenever the song was used in public performances or commercial ventures. However, in 2016, a U.S. federal judge ruled that the song's copyright was not valid, making it public domain, and effectively free for everyone to use.
Most Recognized Song: According to the Guinness World Records, "Happy Birthday to You" is recognized as the most popular song in the English language.
Transcultural Phenomenon: The song has been translated into numerous languages and is sung worldwide with various local adaptations of the lyrics. Its melody is easily recognizable and loved by people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Movie Appearances: "Happy Birthday to You" has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows over the years, becoming a staple for birthday celebrations in popular media.
Alternative Versions: There are many alternative versions and parodies of the song, including humorous and satirical renditions. Some people create personalized versions of the song with unique lyrics for friends and family.
Recordings: "Happy Birthday to You" has been recorded by countless artists over the years, and it's estimated that it is one of the most recorded songs in history.
Longest Happy Birthday Song: The longest continuous performance of the "Happy Birthday" song is a record held by a group in Germany, where they sang it for over 16 hours straight.
Public Singing: "Happy Birthday to You" is often sung in public places such as restaurants and schools to celebrate individuals' birthdays. It's a tradition that brings people together in a joyous manner.
"Happy Birthday to You" is a simple yet enduring song that has played a significant role in countless celebrations around the world. Its timeless melody and lyrics continue to bring joy to people of all ages.