If You’re Happy And You Know It, Clap Your Hands
If You’re Happy And You Know It
Verse 1
If you’re [C]happy and you know it clap your [G7]hands (Clap, Clap)
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it clap your [C]hands (Clap, Clap)
If you’re [F]happy and you know it and you [C]really want to show it
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it clap your [C]hands (Clap, Clap)
Verse 2
If you’re [C]happy and you know it stamp your [G7]feet (Stamp, Stamp)
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it stamp your [C]feet (Stamp, Stamp)
If you’re [F]happy and you know it and you [C]really want to show it
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it stamp your [C]feet (Stamp, Stamp)
Verse 3
If you’re [C]happy and you know it shout hur-[G7]ray (Hurray!)
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it shout hur-[C]ray (Hurray!)
If you’re [F]happy and you know it and you [C]really want to show it,
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it shout hur-[C]ray (Hurray!)
Verse 4
If you’re [C]happy and you know it, do all [G7]three (Clap, Clap, Stamp, Stamp, Hurray!)
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it, do all [C]three (Clap, Clap, Stamp, Stamp, Hurray!)
If you’re [F]happy and you know it and you [C]really want to show it,
If you’re [G7]happy and you know it, do all [C]three (Clap, Clap, Stamp, Stamp, Hurray!)
‘If You’re Happy and You Know It’ Bringing People Together Through History
If you’ve ever picked up a ukulele at a family gathering or sung along in a preschool classroom, chances are you’ve played or heard ‘If You’re Happy and You Know It’. This playful, interactive children’s song has delighted both kids and grown-ups for generations, but have you ever wondered about its origins? Read on to find out more about this feel-good favorite and its universal charm.
The song’s roots can be traced back to the mid-20th century, though its exact origins remain a bit of a mystery. First recorded in 1957 by the legendary singer-songwriter Alfred B. Smith, it was featured in Let’s Sing! - a collection of religious and educational tunes for young audiences. Its infectious melody, coupled with easy-to-follow actions like clapping, stomping, and shouting, quickly made it a hit in classrooms, summer camps, and Sunday schools worldwide.
A Communal Sing Along
Some music historians believe the tune is inspired by traditional folk melodies that emphasize call-and-response patterns, a hallmark of communal singing. This participatory format makes it the perfect match for the ukulele, whose cheerful, strumming chords perfectly complement the song’s upbeat nature.
By the 1960s and 70s, ‘If You’re Happy and You Know It’ was a global phenomenon, appearing in countless children’s songbooks, TV shows, and even language-learning curriculums. Its lyrics have been translated into dozens of languages, from Spanish (Si estás feliz y lo sabes) to Japanese (Shiawase nara te o tatakou), further proving its universal appeal.
With just a few simple chords, you can bring joy to any room. Add your unique flair by varying the actions, experimenting with tempo, or creating your own verses - perfect for those unforgettable campfire singalongs or classroom jam sessions.
So the next time you play ‘If You’re Happy and You Know It’ on your ukulele, take a moment to appreciate its story and how it continues to spread the joy of clapping and foot stomping!
Happy Strumming 😊
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The chord arrangement shown above is the author's own work as an interpretation of the song. This song sheet may only be used for educational purposes.
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