stevie wonder happy birthday song history lyrics

Stevie Wonder, a renowned American musician and songwriter, has been a driving force behind many iconic songs that have become synonymous with social change. Among his most notable contributions is the song 'Happy Birthday,' which has a rich history dating back to its creation in 1981. In this article, we'll delve into Stevie Wonder's journey to writing one of the most recognizable and beloved birthday songs, as well as its significance in the civil rights movement.

The story of 'Happy Birthday' begins with Martin Luther King Jr., who was a close friend and mentor to Wonder. When Wonder was just 5 years old, he heard King speak at a rally, which had a profound impact on him. Years later, at 16, Wonder attended a Freedom Movement rally in Chicago where he met King once again. This encounter would later inspire Wonder to write a song that would become an anthem for the civil rights movement.

In 1981, Wonder released his album 'Hotter than July,' which featured the song 'Happy Birthday.' The song was written specifically for Martin Luther King Jr., who had recently passed away. Wonder wanted to honor his friend's legacy and create a song that would unite people across racial lines. With the help of Motown Records, Wonder recorded the song, which quickly became an anthem for the civil rights movement.

The melody of 'Happy Birthday' is rooted in the classic children's song 'Good Morning to All,' written by American sisters Patty and Mildred Hill. However, Wonder's adaptation of the melody added a new dimension to the song, making it a powerful tool for social change. The song's message of unity and celebration resonated with people from all walks of life, transcending racial boundaries.

Stevie Wonder's commitment to civil rights went beyond his music. He was an active participant in the movement, attending rallies and marches alongside other prominent figures like Martin Luther King Jr. In 2015, Wonder was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions to the civil rights movement.

In conclusion, Stevie Wonder's 'Happy Birthday' is more than just a catchy tune – it's a testament to the power of music in bringing people together and inspiring change. With its rich history and significance in the civil rights movement, 'Happy Birthday' remains an iconic song that continues to unite people across generations.

Stevie wonder happy birthday song history lyrics