We have a collection of 45 arrangements for Patty Hill - Happy Birthday to You
Did you know "Happy Birthday to You" was originally a classroom greeting song? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is a traditional song that is widely sung to celebrate someone's birthday. Here are some interesting facts about this well-known tune:
Origin: The melody of "Happy Birthday to You" comes from the 19th-century song "Good Morning to All," which was composed by Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill. The lyrics we commonly associate with the birthday song were later added.
Copyright Controversy: Until recently, the song was under copyright protection, making it one of the most valuable and protected songs in the world. In 2016, a U.S. judge ruled that Warner/Chappell Music's claim to the copyright was not valid, and the song is now considered public domain.
Most Recognized Song: "Happy Birthday to You" is one of the most widely recognized songs in the English language. It is sung in various cultures and languages around the world, with minor variations in the lyrics.
Guinness World Record: In 1998, "Happy Birthday to You" was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the most recognized song in the English language.
Movie Appearances: The song has appeared in numerous films and TV shows. Its association with birthday celebrations has made it a go-to choice in scenes depicting birthday parties.
Alternative Lyrics: While the most common lyrics are "Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday dear [name], Happy Birthday to You," there are many alternative versions with different lyrics that people have created over the years.
Sing For Royalties: Before the copyright ruling, anyone who wanted to use the song in a commercial setting, like a movie or TV show, had to pay royalties. This led to the creation of alternative birthday songs in media to avoid the fees.
Now that the copyright issue has been resolved, "Happy Birthday to You" is more accessible for public use and continues to be a universal part of birthday celebrations.