The fingerstyle guitar tab (chord melody) for “Happy Birthday” is available for download as a PDF.

Happy Birthday

“Happy Birthday to You” began life as “Good Morning to All,” written in 1893 by sisters Mildred J. Hill (music) and Patty Smith Hill (lyrics). Intended for classrooms, its simple melody helped it spread quickly beyond schools into homes and public gatherings.

By the early twentieth century, the familiar birthday lyrics had taken hold, turning the song into a universal ritual. As the guitar rose in popularity in American homes during the 1900s, it naturally became a common accompaniment for informal celebrations and sing-alongs.

Video

In the video below, I perform the piece as transcribed.

Chord Melody Guitar Tabs

“Happy Birthday” is available for download as a PDF in a bundle with 8 other songs.

Happy Birthday – Twinkle Twinkle Little Star – Mary Had a Little Lamb – Frère Jacques – Hush, Little Baby – London Bridge is Falling Down – Row, Row, Row Your Boat – Three Blind Mice – This Old Man