We have a collection of 58 arrangements for Patti S. Hill and Mildred J. Hill - Happy Birthday to You
Why was "Happy Birthday to You" subject to one of the most controversial copyright claims in history? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is one of the most recognized and widely sung songs in the world. Here are some interesting facts about this traditional birthday song:
Origins and Copyright: "Happy Birthday to You" is believed to have been composed by Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill in the late 19th century. The original lyrics were "Good Morning to All," and it was intended to be a classroom greeting song. The melody and lyrics eventually evolved into the birthday song we know today. The song was copyrighted in 1935, but in 2016, a U.S. judge ruled that Warner/Chappell Music's claim to the copyright was not valid, making the song public domain in the United States.
World Record: The Guinness World Records has recognized "Happy Birthday to You" as the most popular song in the English language. It's estimated that it is sung over a billion times annually.
Lyrics in Different Languages: The song is sung in numerous languages around the world, often with lyrics specific to that language. However, the melody remains the same, making it a truly universal birthday song.
Largest Sing-Along: In 2015, a group of people in the Philippines organized the largest sing-along of "Happy Birthday to You." They had a record-breaking 16,973 participants singing the song simultaneously.
Legal Disputes: For many years, the song's copyright status led to legal disputes and licensing fees, with some organizations having to pay significant amounts to use it in public. The 2016 ruling that placed it in the public domain in the U.S. resolved this issue.
Movie Appearances: "Happy Birthday to You" has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows, often as a celebratory element during birthday scenes. It has become a cultural reference point for birthdays in media.
Alternative Lyrics: While the traditional lyrics to "Happy Birthday to You" are the most well-known, many people have created alternative lyrics for fun or personal use. Some of these humorous versions are popular at birthday parties.
Musical Variations: The song has been arranged and performed in various musical styles, from classical and jazz to rock and hip-hop. It's a versatile melody that can be adapted to suit different musical tastes.
Public Domain Status: As of the 2016 ruling, "Happy Birthday to You" is considered to be in the public domain in the United States. This means that it can be used freely without the need for permission or payment of royalties.
Longevity: "Happy Birthday to You" has stood the test of time and remains an enduring tradition for celebrating birthdays worldwide. Its simple melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to bring joy to people of all ages.