![[2026] Summary of Popular Happy Birthday Songs and Birthday Songs in the United States](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/90w2RegGf9w/maxresdefault.webp)
[2026] Summary of Popular Happy Birthday Songs and Birthday Songs in the United States
The music that plays during a birthday celebration makes the moment feel even more special, doesn’t it? In the United States, beloved happy birthday songs come in a wide range of styles—from bright, poppy, and glamorous to gentle, heartwarming ballads.
One of the charms of Western music is that you can pick the perfect track for the occasion, whether it’s a song to energize the party or a heartfelt tune to send as a message to someone special.
In this article, we’ll introduce birthday songs born in America from a variety of angles.
From perfect picks to set the scene for a birthday to unique, unconventional birthday songs, we hope you’ll find a favorite one!
[2026] Summary of Popular Happy Birthday/Birthday Songs in the United States (1–10)
Happy Birthday to YouNEW!
A standard number beloved around the world and indispensable for birthday celebrations.
Its origins are said to trace back to a greeting song published in 1893 by Patty Hill and Mildred J.
Hill, which over many years took on the form we know today.
The song made major headlines in 2016 when it entered the public domain in the United States, officially becoming a song that can be freely used for celebrations from a legal standpoint.
In 1998, it was even cited by Guinness World Records as “the most recognized song in the English-speaking world,” a testament to its overwhelming fame.
It has been used extensively in films and television, and its simple triple-meter melody makes it easy for anyone to join in spontaneously.
At the climax of a party gathered around the cake, be sure to sing it together with everyone.
Birthday PartyNEW!AJR
A quirky birthday song by AJR, a trio of brothers based in New York.
They’re known for their DIY style of crafting global hits right from their living room.
This track appears on their April 2019 album Neotheater.
Sung from the perspective of a newborn baby, it captivates with a unique worldview that blends anticipation and irony about the world they’re about to face.
It brilliantly fuses a distinctive sound—sampling a piece used in a David Lynch film—with a catchy pop melody.
Perfect for those who find standard celebration songs a bit bland or want to spice up a party with something offbeat.
Why not gift it to a music-loving friend as a dose of black humor?
BirthdayNEW!Katy Perry
Singer-songwriter Katy Perry captivates audiences around the world with her powerful vocals and colorful aesthetic.
She’s also extremely popular in Japan.
Among her songs, the one I recommend for celebratory occasions is this track from the album “Prism.” Released as a single back in 2014, it features a dazzling disco-inspired sound that lifts the spirit.
Its unique music video—where she sneaks into a real party in special-effects makeup—also drew attention, and the song hit No.
1 on the U.S.
Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.
If you want to hype up the guest of honor or convey congratulations to a friend, give it a spin.
It’s My PartyNEW!Lesley Gore
Lesley Gore, known as a songstress who epitomized the American pop scene of the 1960s, won the support of many young people with a voice that vividly captured the shifting emotions of teen life.
This work, which defined her career, is a song with the striking theme of heartbreak at a birthday party.
The sophisticated sound crafted by producer Quincy Jones and the dramatic twist of shedding tears at one’s own celebration leave a strong impression.
Released as a single in April 1963, it became a smash hit, reaching No.
1 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100.
Its catchy melody—also used in fast-food commercials—adds a unique touch as background music for birthdays.
Birthday GirlNEW!Lizzo
Lizzo is a multi-talented artist who shines as a rapper, singer, and flutist.
Her album Special, released in July 2022, is a masterpiece that drew attention at the 65th Grammy Awards.
Birthday Girl, featured in the latter half of the album, is a disco-style track highlighted by bright, brassy horn sounds.
It’s overflowing with positive vibes that make not only the birthday person but everyone there feel like the star of the show.
Play it at a party with friends or on a special day when you want to celebrate yourself in a big way, and it’s sure to make the day unforgettable.
Highly recommended as a track everyone can get hyped to together.
Happy BirthdayNEW!New Kids On The Block
New Kids on the Block, the Boston-born boy band that thrilled the world from the ’80s through the ’90s, are known for their dance moves and pop sound.
Among their songs, this one is cherished as a simple and warm birthday tune.
It was included on their album Step by Step, released in June 1990.
Jonathan Knight’s sweet lead vocals leave a lasting impression.
The song is also known for a scene in the popular show Fuller House, where the group performs it to celebrate.
With its catchy melody that’s easy for everyone to sing along to, it’s the perfect track for a party when you want to gather around a cake and get into the spirit.
Teenage DreamNEW!Olivia Rodrigo
Born in 2003, Olivia Rodrigo rose from her Disney Channel beginnings to become a global pop star, with her raw, relatable lyrics resonating strongly with younger generations.
The final track on her September 2023 album GUTS is this song.
Set to a piano melody, it reflects the complex feelings about the end of one’s teenage years and the anxieties of becoming an adult.
It’s an introspective, emotional ballad—quite different from a flashy celebratory mood.
For those turning 19 or marking a birthday that feels like a step into adulthood, it’s a perfect listen.
This masterpiece, which beautifully transforms the pains of growing up, is sure to speak deeply to your heart on a milestone day.