Sometimes all you want is some music that inspires you to “Get Happy.” Is that golden oldie you like hokey? Sure! But also uplifting? Can’t argue with that! A (so-called) guilty pleasure? Get over it!
It’s really all in the ears or mood of the listener. No matter what, though, the following songs have endured.
I. “Get Happy” (1930)/ “Happy Days Are Here Again” (1929)
First performed by Ruth Etting for a play, “Get Happy” became better known after Judy Garland recorded it 20 years later for her movie Summer Stock. A bouncy and upbeat…preparation for “judgement day”? As in, going to heaven? Well, somehow it’s easy to suspend that aspect when hearing it.
Forget your troubles, come on get happyYou better chase all your cares awayShout hallelujah, come on get happyGet ready for the judgement day…
In 1963 Garland and Barbra Streisand performed it together on The Judy Garland Show. But the extra added twist was their addition of another old theatrical song, “Happy Days Are Here Again,” to make a super-winning medley that still stands up today.
…Happy days are here again
The skies above are clear again
So let’s sing a song of cheer again…
The classic clip opens with cheeky declarations of their mutual love/hate:
Many years later Pink Martini‘s China Forbes and Storm Large also gave a great rendition. And their cute introductory Barbra/Judy banter is priceless.
Much more recently, Wicked costars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande:
II. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin (1988)
With an unforgettable lilt and simple lyrics, McFerrin made this a keeper. Lyrics from the middle:
…Listen to what I say
In your life expect some trouble
When you worry you make it double
Don’t worry, be happy…
The official video features McFerrin along with Robin Williams and Bill Irwin:
It’s also been covered by various artists as a medley with “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley & the Wailers. In addition to its similarly rhythmic tempo, there’s this refrain:
…Don’t worry about a thing
‘Cause every little thing gonna be alright…
III. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams (2013)
Previously mentioned in my “Election Day 2024: The Letdown Playlist,” this is a celebratory wannabe that had to be substituted for something more depressing when Kamala did not obtain the Presidency.
Opening lyrics:
Various individuals dance along (including such celebs as Steve Carell, Jimmy Kimmel, and Issa Rae):
