We have a collection of 58 arrangements for Patty Hill, Mildred J. Hill - Happy Birthday to You
"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:
Origin 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 for "Happy Birthday to You" were later added to the melody. The song was copyrighted in 1935, and the copyright was owned by Warner/Chappell Music until a legal dispute settled in 2016.
Longest Copyrighted Song: For many years, "Happy Birthday to You" held the record as the longest-copyrighted song in the English language. The copyright status led to the song being subject to licensing fees for public performances, including in movies, TV shows, and restaurants.
Public Domain Status: The legal status of the song changed in 2016 when a U.S. judge ruled that Warner/Chappell's claim to the copyright was not valid. This decision placed the song in the public domain, making it free for public use and performance.
Alternative Lyrics: While the most common version of the lyrics is the familiar "Happy Birthday to You," there are alternative versions in different languages. In some cultures, people sing different birthday songs with their own lyrics and melodies.
Guinness World Record: "Happy Birthday to You" is recognized by the Guinness World Records as one of the most frequently sung songs in the English language. It is often sung at birthday celebrations around the world.
Celebrity Adaptations: Over the years, many musicians and artists have created their own versions of "Happy Birthday to You." Some have even incorporated the song into their performances or recordings, giving it a unique twist.
Cultural Impact: The song has become deeply ingrained in popular culture and is almost synonymous with birthday celebrations. Its simplicity and familiarity make it a go-to choice for birthday parties and events.
Challenging in Public Domain: Even after the song entered the public domain, there were debates about whether certain specific arrangements or sheet music editions might still be under copyright. The legal aspects surrounding its usage continue to be an interesting aspect of its history.