The seemingly simple "Happy Birthday to You" song boasts a surprisingly complex and fascinating history.  Here's a glimpse into its journey:

1912: The first known appearance of the "Happy Birthday to You" lyrics paired with the Hill sisters' melody appears in print.

1912: The first known appearance of the "Happy Birthday to You" lyrics paired with the Hill sisters' melody appears in print.

1924: The Summy Company publishes "Happy Birthday to You" in a songbook, claiming copyright.

1935: The Hill sisters file a lawsuit against the Summy Company, claiming ownership of the song.

1935: The Hill sisters file a lawsuit against the Summy Company, claiming ownership of the song.

1940s: The court rules in favor of the Summy Company, granting them copyright for the song's arrangement and publication rights.

1940s: The court rules in favor of the Summy Company, granting them copyright for the song's arrangement and publication rights.

Throughout the 20th century, "Happy Birthday to You" becomes a worldwide phenomenon, translated into numerous languages and sung across cultures.

Throughout the 20th century, "Happy Birthday to You" becomes a worldwide phenomenon, translated into numerous languages and sung across cultures.

2016: Warner/Chappell Music, the current owner of the copyright, earns an estimated $2 million annually from "Happy Birthday to You."

2016: Warner/Chappell Music, the current owner of the copyright, earns an estimated $2 million annually from "Happy Birthday to You."

2019: An appeals court reverses the 2016 decision, reinstating Warner/Chappell's copyright for the song's arrangement.

2019: An appeals court reverses the 2016 decision, reinstating Warner/Chappell's copyright for the song's arrangement.

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