We have a collection of 58 arrangements for Traditional - Happy Birthday
Did you know the original version of this song had different lyrics? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is a well-known traditional song that is sung to celebrate someone's birthday. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic song:
Copyright Controversy: One of the most intriguing facts about "Happy Birthday to You" is its copyright status. For many years, it was believed to be under copyright protection, and Warner/Chappell Music claimed to hold the rights. However, in 2016, a U.S. federal judge ruled that the song's copyright was not valid, making it public domain. This ruling was significant because it had been a subject of debate and controversy for decades.
Origin: 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 greeting song to be sung in classrooms.
Lyrics: The lyrics we commonly associate with "Happy Birthday to You" were added later to the tune of "Good Morning to All." The lyrics have become a universal way to celebrate birthdays around the world.
Most Recognized Song: According to the Guinness World Records, "Happy Birthday to You" is the most recognized song in the English language. Its melody is known worldwide, transcending cultural and language barriers.
Alternative Lyrics: While the traditional lyrics of "Happy Birthday to You" are the most commonly sung, there are also many alternative versions and parodies of the song created for various occasions and humor.
Variations: "Happy Birthday" has been translated and adapted into numerous languages, each with its own version of the lyrics while retaining the same melody.
Celebrity Use: The song has made appearances in numerous movies, TV shows, and even during public events. It's often used to symbolize birthday celebrations in popular culture.
Public Domain: As mentioned earlier, the song is now considered to be in the public domain, which means it can be freely used without worrying about copyright infringement.
"Happy Birthday to You" is a song that has become a cherished part of birthday celebrations worldwide, and its history and copyright story add to its uniqueness.