"Happy Birthday to You" is sung everywhere, but because it's copyrighted, it's rarely heard on TV or in movies. A filmmaker has filed a lawsuit seeking to make the song part of the public domain.

“'Happy Birthday' is finally free after 80 years,” said Randall Newman, a lawyer for the plaintiffs in the suit, told the LA Times. “Finally, the charade is over.

When Jennifer Nelson set out a few years ago to make a film about one of the most famous songs in history, she knew one thing for sure: She would have to pay if she wanted to use the song itself.

In the United States, “Happy Birthday to You”—one of the most popular songs in the world—is still under copyright. And it will be until 2030. While you’re free to sing the song in ...

‘Happy Birthday to You’ Is Finally Free. Things you buy through our links may earn Vox Media a commission. THE FEED. 7/26/2025. american affairs. american affairs.