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RAJ Thum - A. Kos - Arrangement (April 2013)

"Happy Birthday to You" is a widely recognized and sung song, often used to celebrate birthdays around the world. Here are some interesting facts about this classic tune:

  1. Origin: The melody for "Happy Birthday to You" is believed to have originated from the 19th-century song "Good Morning to All." Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill wrote the melody, which was initially intended to be a classroom greeting song.

  2. Lyrics: The lyrics we commonly associate with the song, beginning with "Happy Birthday to You," were added later. The exact origins of these lyrics are somewhat disputed, but they became widely accepted as part of the song.

  3. Copyright: Warner/Chappell Music claimed the copyright for "Happy Birthday to You" for many years, causing it to be one of the most lucrative songs in the world. However, in 2016, a U.S. judge ruled that the song was in the public domain, making it free to use for everyone.

  4. Singing Traditions: "Happy Birthday to You" is typically sung at birthday parties and celebrations around the world. Different cultures and languages have their variations of the song, but the melody remains largely the same.

  5. Most Recognized Song: "Happy Birthday to You" is often cited as one of the most recognized songs in the English language. It's so well-known that it's been translated into numerous languages and sung in diverse cultural settings.

  6. Public Performances: Before the copyright dispute was settled, public performances of "Happy Birthday to You" in movies, TV shows, and public venues often required licensing fees. This led to creative alternatives in media to avoid those fees.

  7. Alternative Birthday Songs: Due to copyright restrictions, some people and organizations have used alternative birthday songs to avoid licensing issues. One example is the song "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow."

  8. Recorded Versions: Over the years, many famous artists and musicians have recorded their versions of "Happy Birthday to You," giving it a unique twist. These renditions can be found in various musical genres.

  9. Cultural Impact: The song has made its way into popular culture and is frequently referenced in movies, TV shows, and literature. It's a symbol of joy and celebration.

  10. Global Celebration: While "Happy Birthday to You" is primarily associated with English-speaking countries, it has become a global celebration song, transcending language and cultural barriers.

So, whether you're singing it at a friend's birthday party or hearing it in a movie, "Happy Birthday to You" has a rich history and a universal appeal that makes it a beloved part of birthday celebrations worldwide.

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