Rihanna
“Happy Birthday to You” is one of the most recognizable songs in the world. It’s sang countless times at parties, in offices and in voice mail messages for a lucky recipient celebrating the anniversary of their birth.
But the song, which dates back to 1893, is boring and played out — and not to mention subject to a $25 million copyright by Warner/Chappell music, which has filed lawsuits for singing it publicly without permission. The song is not worth getting sued for, so it’s about time to switch up the tune.
You don’t have to be the president to have a celebrity sing your praises a la Marilyn Monroe. Pop culture has given us so many options for birthday-related melodies. Everything from club anthems to serenades can provide a birthday soundtrack for any event.
And even if you think your birthday is just another day — far from the days of the laser tag or sleepover parties of childhood — you should find a way to celebrate. If you don’t have time to hit the club or throw a lavish shindig, the least you can do is have a personal party with an incredible birthday playlist of songs that are sure to be more entertaining than the usual.
11. “Birthday Cake (remix)” — Rihanna ft. Chris Brown
Though this song shares a name with a fabulous ice cream dessert from Cold Stone Creamery, it’s not exactly what Rihanna and Brown are referring to. The controversial couple teamed up on this innuendo-filled duet, and even if “it’s not even [her] birthday” it’s still a song that would get anyone hype on their day.
10. “Birthday Song” — 2 Chainz ft. Kanye West
2 Chainz might have crossed the line of decency when he sang “All I want for my birthday is a big-booty hoe,” but at least he was honest. Joined by his G.O.O.D music boss, Kanye West, the hit song is a party anthem and a tribute to curvaceous rear ends. Whether your wish list is the same as 2 Chainz — or if a new laptop or a gift card will suffice — anyone can share in 2 Chainz’s excitement.
9. “Birthday Sex” — Jeremih
You could not celebrate your birthday in 2009 without someone saying “It’s your birthday and I know you want to ri-i-ide out.” The song is definitely raunchy, but it’s a classic, whether you’re just singing along or participating.
8. “In Da Club” — 50 Cent
“Go Shawty, it’s your birthday/ we gon’ party like it’s your birthday” is probably one of the most memorable lines from early 2000s hip-hop, and for good reason.
7. “Grown Woman” — Beyoncé
If you’re a female celebrating your 21st birthday, or simply someone who feels wiser and more confident with each year, this song, from Beyoncé’s recent self-titled album, is the perfect anthem to declare your newfound womanhood.
6. “Everyday Birthday” — Swizz Beats ft. Chris Brown and Ludacris
“Everyday Birthday” is a classic Swizz Beats hype song that encourages endless drinks, dancing and partying. With this as your birthday anthem, you’ll be sure to have a wild time.
5. “It’s Your Birthday” — Luke
“Go Sheila!/ It’s your Birthday!”
If you want everyone to know it’s your birthday, shout it out. Luke, from raunchy ’90s hip-hop group 2 Live Crew, created a birthday and club anthem by calling out birthdays and zodiac signs. You have probably already shouted out that phrase at a party when spontaneous dance circles have formed, but when it’s actually your birthday, it’s much more enjoyable.
4. “Birthday” — Katy Perry
Katy Perry is an artist who’s all about fun. It’s nearly impossible to be in a bad mood when listening to her songs, making her the perfect person to do a birthday serenade. This song is heartwarming and makes you feel special, even if it’s not your birthday.
3. “It’s Your Birthday” — R. Kelly
R. Kelly knows how to celebrate a birthday. In this song, he details a night of dancing and VIP treatment. The feel-good serenade from the R&B crooner even does a smooth recreation of Luke’s birthday shout outs at the end.
2. “Birthday” — The Beatles
The Beatles were an iconic group who got the world up and moving during their reign. So who better to start a party than The Beatles themselves? This song is one that will have you moving and bopping your head, and it’s a great way to lift your spirits and get the party started.
1. “Happy Birthday” — Stevie Wonder
Music legend Stevie Wonder created this rendition of the classic song to pay tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr. on the first MLK Day. It’s an exciting alternative to the usual and praises unity and love along with the birthday recipient. It’s a fun tune that would be a fine successor to the classic “happy birthday to you.”
