The Most Popular Birthday Song, Ranked

Choose the birthday song you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 11, 2024 06:31
Celebrations often hit a high note when a familiar tune is sung to mark another year of life. Yet, deciding which song resonates best with celebrants and attendees can sometimes be a matter of personal preference or cultural influence. By collecting and ranking popular birthday songs, we offer a snapshot of what melodies are currently capturing hearts across various gatherings. This dynamic ranking isn't just a list; it's a tool that reflects the choices of a global audience. Your participation by voting helps ensure that the ranking remains fresh and relevant. Whether you're planning a party or just curious about prevailing trends, this list offers a unique insight into the world's birthday soundtrack.

What Is the Most Popular Birthday Song?

  1. 1
    40
    votes
    This is the most popular birthday song and is sung worldwide. It was written in 1893 by Mildred J. Hill and Patty Smith Hill.
    Happy Birthday to You is a widely recognized and popular song used to celebrate birthdays. It is sung to honor someone on their special day and is typically accompanied by the presentation and cutting of a birthday cake.
    • Year of creation: 1893
    • Melody composers: Mildred J. Hill and Patty Smith Hill
    • Lyricist: Patty Smith Hill (disputed)
    • Language: English
    • Duration: Around 15-20 seconds
    Happy Birthday to You in other rankings
  2. 2
    37
    votes
    "Celebration" by Kool & the Gang
    De-Lite Records / PolyGram · Public domain
    This is a popular song played during birthday parties because of its upbeat and catchy tune.
  3. 3
    26
    votes
    This song was released in 1968 and is a classic birthday song. It has a fun and lively melody that is perfect for celebrating.
    The "Birthday" by The Beatles is a lively and energetic rock song that celebrates the joyous occasion of a birthday. It is a track from their 1968 double album called "The Beatles", also known as the "White Album". The song features catchy melodies, strong vocal harmonies, and a driving rhythm section typical of The Beatles' sound.
    • Album: "The Beatles" (White Album)
    • Year: 1968
    • Genre: Rock
    • Length: 2 minutes and 42 seconds
    • Songwriters: John Lennon, Paul McCartney
  4. 4
    15
    votes
    This is a sweet and sentimental birthday song that is perfect for a more intimate celebration. It has a beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics.
    The Birthday Song by Corrinne May is a heartfelt and melodic tune that celebrates the joy and love surrounding birthdays. It is a soft acoustic pop ballad with a catchy chorus and heartfelt lyrics.
    • Genre: Acoustic pop ballad
    • Release Date: 2001
    • Duration: 3 minutes and 41 seconds
    • Language: English
    • Lyricist: Corrinne May
  5. 5
    12
    votes
    This song has a catchy and fun beat that is perfect for a birthday party. It was released in 2014 and has been a popular choice ever since.
    Katy Perry's "Birthday" is a pop song released in 2014. It is an upbeat and celebratory track that captures the joy and excitement of birthdays. The song is a part of Perry's album "Prism" and has gained popularity as a modern birthday anthem.
    • Release Date: April 21, 2014
    • Genre: Pop
    • Album: Prism
    • Songwriter(s): Katy Perry, Bonnie McKee, Cirkut, Dr. Luke, Max Martin
    • Producers: Dr. Luke, Max Martin
  6. 6
    13
    votes
    While not specifically a birthday song, this classic tune is often played at birthday parties because of its celebratory lyrics and upbeat melody.
  7. 7
    13
    votes
    This song has a positive and uplifting message that is perfect for a birthday celebration. It encourages living life to the fullest and appreciating every moment.
    The song 'Best Day of My Life' by American Authors is an upbeat and optimistic track that celebrates the joy and excitement of living life to the fullest. It is often associated with special occasions like birthdays, as it embodies a sense of happiness and celebration.
    • Genre: Indie rock, pop rock, alternative rock
    • Released: March 19, 2013
    • Length: 3 minutes and 14 seconds
    • Album: Oh, What a Life
    • Label: Mercury Records
  8. 8
    3
    votes
    This song has a timeless message about staying young at heart and living life to the fullest. It is often played at milestone birthdays such as 30, 40, or 50.
  9. 9
    5
    votes
    This song is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to someone on their birthday. It encourages them to follow their dreams and always reach for the stars.
    "My Wish" by Rascal Flatts in other rankings
  10. 10
    3
    votes
    This song is about friendship and being there for someone no matter what. It is a great choice for a birthday celebration because it reminds us of the importance of our loved ones.

Missing your favorite birthday song?

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Ranking factors for popular birthday song

  1. Simplicity
    The melody and lyrics of the song should be simple and easy to sing along, regardless of one's musical abilities or familiarity with the song.
  2. Language and cultural barriers
    The song should be available in multiple languages or have a simple universal message suitable for celebrating birthdays across different cultures.
  3. Timelessness
    The popularity of the birthday song should span across multiple generations, making it a classic and traditional choice.
  4. Emotional appeal
    The song should evoke positive emotions related to celebrating one's birthday, such as happiness, excitement, and a sense of togetherness.
  5. Catchiness
    The birthday song should have a memorable and catchy tune that stays in listeners' minds and easily comes to mind when thinking about birthdays.
  6. Digital presence
    The song's popularity in the digital space, like streaming services or views on platforms like YouTube, can also be a factor in determining its popularity as a birthday song.
  7. Adaptability and personalization
    A popular birthday song should be easily adaptable and allow for personalization to make the celebration feel unique and special for the birthday person.
  8. History and tradition
    The song's history and the role it has played in birthday celebrations over time can contribute to its popularity as a birthday song.
  9. Public opinion and ratings
    Reviews, ratings, and public opinion can help determine the popularity of a birthday song.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular birthday song. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Happy birthday. is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1644 views
  • 167 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Happy birthday. once every 24 hours. The rank of each Happy birthday. is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular birthday song

Background Information: Birthdays are a special occasion that we all celebrate with our loved ones. And what better way to celebrate than by singing the traditional "Happy Birthday" song? This song has been a staple in birthday celebrations for over a century, and it's hard to imagine a birthday party without it. However, as popular as "Happy Birthday" is, there are many other birthday songs out there that people love to sing. From the classic "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow" to the more modern "Birthday" by Katy Perry, there are many options to choose from. So, what is the most popular birthday song? Let's take a look at some of the contenders and see which one comes out on top.

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