Happy Birthday — Altered Images Lyrics

Song Facts:

• Genre: New Wave, Post-Punk


• Producers: Martin Rushent & Steven Severin


• Writers: Jim McKinven, Johnny McElhone, Tony McDaid, Michael Anderson, Clare Grogan


• Release Date: August 1981

About the Artist:

Altered Images is a Scottish new wave band that formed in the early 1980s. They are known for their catchy pop tunes combined with a punk edge. The band was fronted by Clare Grogan, whose distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence helped them gain a loyal following. Their music often features playful and quirky lyrics, blending upbeat melodies with post-punk instrumentation. Altered Images achieved significant success in the UK with hits like Happy Birthday and I Could Be Happy. They are remembered for their energetic performances and unique sound that defined a part of the early '80s music scene.

Annotations and Meaning of Happy Birthday:

The song Happy Birthday by Altered Images is a playful and whimsical track that combines celebratory and surreal elements. The repetitive refrain emphasizes the joyous occasion of a birthday.

Happy, happy birthday in a hot bath to those nice, nice nights

I remember always, always, I got such a fright

Seeing them in my dark cupboard with my great big cake

The verse describes a peculiar scene of celebrating a birthday in a hot bath, a juxtaposition of comfort and surprise. The line about seeing "them" in a dark cupboard with a big cake suggests a mix of childhood memories and possibly a fear or surprise associated with it.

If they were me, if they were me

And I was you, and I was you

If they were me and I was you

Would you've liked a present too?

The chorus explores the idea of empathy and perspective. It questions whether others would appreciate the same kind of present if roles were reversed, adding a thoughtful layer to the celebration.

Happy, happy birthday in a hot bath to those nice, nice nights

I remember always, always, I got such a fright

Seeing them in my dark cupboard with my great big cake

Repeating the earlier verse reinforces the surreal and nostalgic imagery, grounding the song in its whimsical yet slightly eerie narrative.

If they were me, if they were me

And I was you and I was you

If they were me and I was you

Would you've liked a present too?

The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the importance of considering others' feelings and experiences, a subtle reminder of empathy even in joyous moments.

Happy birthday, happy birthday

Happy birthday, happy birthday

Happy birthday, happy birthday

Happy birthday, happy birthday

The refrain, repeated multiple times, underscores the celebratory nature of the song. It creates a festive atmosphere, inviting listeners to join in the joy of the occasion.

Happy Birthday by Altered Images combines playful lyrics with a catchy melody, capturing the essence of a whimsical and slightly surreal celebration. The song's blend of upbeat and quirky elements makes it a memorable and beloved track from the early '80s new wave scene.