Prompt Cast
The History and Controversy of the Song "Happy Birthday to You"
TLDR The song "Happy Birthday to You" has a rich history and has been the subject of a significant copyright case. Despite its popularity and financial success, the copyright claims for the song are questionable and its true authors, Patty and Mildred Hill, have faced controversy.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
The most famous song in the world, "Happy Birthday to You," has a rich history and has even been the subject of a significant copyright case.
01:34
The song "Happy Birthday to You" was originally written as "Good Morning to All" by two sisters in 1893 for kindergartners to learn.
02:58
The song "Happy Birthday to You" was published without songwriting credits or a copyright notice, and Patty and Mildred were not compensated for its use until their sister Jessica Hill intervened and got them credited as the song's writers.
04:28
"Happy Birthday to You" is the most popular and lucrative song in the world, generating millions of dollars in licensing fees, but its copyright and financial success have been a subject of controversy.
05:55
The song "Happy Birthday to You" has similarities to several earlier folk songs, and its copyright has been the subject of controversy and lawsuits.
07:41
The copyright claims for "Happy Birthday to You" are questionable due to incomplete coverage, incorrect author listing, and lack of evidence that Patty and Mildred actually wrote the song.
08:59
Patty and Mildred Hill, the creators of "Happy Birthday to You," are considered two of the most successful songwriters in history, despite the copyright issues surrounding the song.
