We have a collection of 77 arrangements for Traditional - Happy Birthday
Did you know "Happy Birthday" was once subject to copyright royalties? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is one of the most well-known and frequently sung songs in the world. Here are some interesting facts about this traditional tune:
Copyright Controversy: "Happy Birthday to You" was once considered the most recognized song in the English language and was under copyright protection for many years. However, in 2016, a U.S. judge ruled that Warner/Chappell Music's claim to the copyright was not valid, making the song public domain. This means that anyone can now sing "Happy Birthday" without fear of copyright infringement.
Original Lyrics: The song's original lyrics were written by sisters Patty Hill and Mildred J. Hill in the late 19th century. It was initially titled "Good Morning to All" and was meant to be sung in classrooms. The lyrics were adapted over time to become the "Happy Birthday" song we know today.
World Record: "Happy Birthday" is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the most popular song in the English language. It's estimated that it's sung around the world over 1 billion times each year.
Movie Appearances: The song has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows over the years, often as a part of birthday celebration scenes. It's so commonly associated with birthdays that it's hard to imagine a birthday party without it.
Variations: While the traditional version of "Happy Birthday to You" is the most well-known, there are many variations and adaptations of the song in different languages and cultures. These adaptations often include different melodies and lyrics to suit their respective languages and customs.
Lawsuit History: The copyright dispute over "Happy Birthday to You" lasted for decades, with Warner/Chappell Music collecting royalties from people and organizations who used the song in public performances. The 2016 ruling, as mentioned earlier, put an end to this practice.
Public Domain: Since "Happy Birthday to You" is now in the public domain, it has become a symbol of free expression and celebration worldwide. People are free to use it without restrictions, making it even more accessible and beloved.
Cultural Icon: "Happy Birthday" is a unifying song that transcends cultural, linguistic, and national boundaries. No matter where you are in the world, you can sing "Happy Birthday," and people will understand the sentiment and join in the celebration.
"Happy Birthday to You" is a timeless and cherished song that has been a part of countless birthday celebrations for generations. Its journey from a simple classroom tune to a global cultural icon is a testament to the power of music to bring people together in celebration.