We have a collection of 58 arrangements for Traditional - Happy Birthday
Did you know "Happy Birthday" was copyrighted until 2015? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is one of the most widely recognized songs in the English language, and it has a rich history filled with interesting facts:
Original Tune: The melody for "Happy Birthday to You" is believed to have originated from the 19th-century song "Good Morning to All," which was composed by Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill. It was initially intended as a classroom greeting song.
Birthday Verses: The lyrics we commonly associate with the song today, beginning with "Happy birthday to you," were added to the melody later. The combination of the melody and these lyrics turned it into a birthday celebration anthem.
Copyright Controversy: For many years, the song "Happy Birthday to You" was under copyright protection, making it one of the most lucrative songs in history. This copyright was held by Warner/Chappell Music until 2016 when a U.S. judge ruled that the song was in the public domain, and Warner/Chappell was not entitled to collect royalties for its use.
Most Recognizable Song: According to the Guinness World Records, "Happy Birthday to You" is the most recognized song in the English language. It's sung in countless languages and is a staple at birthday parties around the world.
Sing-Along Tradition: The tradition of singing "Happy Birthday" with a birthday cake and candles dates back to at least the early 1900s. It's now a universal way to celebrate birthdays, with friends and family gathering to sing the song before blowing out the candles.
Lawsuits and Litigation: The song's copyright history is filled with lawsuits. Not only was there the famous Warner/Chappell case, but there were also disputes involving various publishers and performers over the years, all claiming rights to the song.
Alternative Lyrics: While most people are familiar with the traditional "Happy Birthday to You" lyrics, there have been many variations and parodies created over the years. Some are humorous, while others are specific to certain cultures or groups.
Public Domain Status: Since the song is now in the public domain, you can use it freely without worrying about copyright infringement. This has made it easier for individuals, organizations, and businesses to include the song in their birthday celebrations without fear of legal repercussions.
Recorded Versions: "Happy Birthday to You" has been recorded by countless artists and musicians over the years, from the Beatles to Stevie Wonder, each putting their unique spin on the classic tune.
Birthday Song in Space: On August 25, 1989, NASA astronauts on the Space Shuttle Atlantis sang "Happy Birthday to You" to fellow astronaut Daniel Brandenstein, who was celebrating his 45th birthday while in orbit. This marked the first time the song was performed in space.
"Happy Birthday to You" is not just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon that has transcended generations and borders, bringing joy to countless people on their special day.