We have a collection of 45 arrangements for Traditional - Happy Birthday
Did you know "Happy Birthday" was involved in one of the longest copyright disputes in history? Learn!
"Happy Birthday to You" is one of the most well-known and widely sung songs in the world. Here are some interesting facts about this traditional birthday song:
Origins and Copyright: The melody of "Happy Birthday to You" comes from the song "Good Morning to All," which was composed by Patty Hill and her sister Mildred J. Hill in the late 19th century. The lyrics we use today were added later. The song was copyrighted in 1935, and its copyright was controversial and contested for many years.
Copyright Dispute: The copyright for "Happy Birthday to You" was held by Warner/Chappell Music until 2016. They claimed that using the song in public performances required a license and payment of fees. However, in 2016, a U.S. judge ruled that the copyright was not valid, and the song entered the public domain.
Most Recognizable Song: According to the Guinness World Records, "Happy Birthday to You" is the most recognized song in the English language. It has been translated into numerous languages and is sung all around the world to celebrate birthdays.
Alternative Lyrics: While the traditional lyrics are the ones most commonly sung, there are many variations of the song with alternative lyrics. People often create personalized versions for friends and family.
Public Domain Status: After the copyright dispute was resolved in 2016, "Happy Birthday to You" is now considered to be in the public domain. This means that anyone can use it freely without fear of copyright infringement.
Milestone Birthdays: The song is commonly sung at birthday parties and celebrations, and it is often associated with milestone birthdays, such as turning 1, 16, 21, 50, or 100 years old.
Cultural Impact: The song has made its way into popular culture and has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials. Its simple and catchy melody contributes to its enduring popularity.
Recorded Versions: Numerous artists have recorded their own versions of "Happy Birthday to You," adding their unique style to the celebratory song. However, because of copyright restrictions, these versions were often used in lieu of the traditional version in commercial settings.
"Happy Birthday to You" is a timeless and universally recognized song that continues to bring joy to people of all ages around the world.