We have a collection of 77 arrangements for Traditional - Happy Birthday
Did you know the "Happy Birthday" song was once copyrighted and cost filmmakers millions? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is a traditional and well-known birthday song that has an interesting history:
Origins: The melody of "Happy Birthday to You" is believed to have originated from the song "Good Morning to All," which was composed by Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill in the late 19th century. Initially, it was a greeting song sung in classrooms.
Lyrics: The lyrics we commonly associate with the song, "Happy Birthday to You," were added later. The words we sing today were likely adapted from the original "Good Morning to All" to fit various celebratory occasions.
Copyright Controversy: For many years, "Happy Birthday to You" was under copyright protection, and Warner/Chappell Music claimed to own the rights to the song. This led to the company collecting royalties for its use in movies, TV shows, and other public performances. However, in 2016, a U.S. federal judge ruled that Warner/Chappell's claim to the copyright was not valid, making "Happy Birthday to You" a public domain song in the United States.
Most Recognized Song: "Happy Birthday to You" is often cited as one of the most recognized songs in the English language. It's sung at birthday celebrations worldwide and has been translated into numerous languages.
Alternative Versions: While the traditional version of "Happy Birthday to You" is the most well-known, there are many alternative versions and parodies of the song created for various occasions and humorous purposes.
Recorded Versions: Over the years, countless artists have recorded their own versions of "Happy Birthday to You," adding their unique styles and interpretations to the song.
Cultural Influence: The song's cultural influence is vast, and it has been featured in countless films, TV shows, and advertisements. Its ubiquity makes it an integral part of birthday celebrations in many countries.
So, "Happy Birthday to You" is not just a simple song; it has a rich history and cultural significance that has made it a universal birthday anthem.