As huge as Pharrell's hit song "Happy" is, it actually wasn’t supposed to feature lead vocals from the mega producer! The international smash was written and produced by Williams, but Cee-Lo Green recorded the tune first!
Pharrell recently chatted with shock jock Howard Stern earlier this week, where he revealed how the switch happened: “He did it, he did do it, but the — how do I say this diplomatically? –The powers that be at the time did not see it fit for him, and there was a much bigger agenda for him; he had bigger fish to fry, he had an album to put out,” he explained. “He sounded amazing on it. He burns my version.”
Go figure! Bet you can hear Cee-Lo singing it in your head, right? Hhmm, maybe it’ll be only a matter of time before it leaks!
Listen to Pharrell’s Howard Stern clip :
Did you know that Pharrell’s hit song ‘Happy’ was not originally sung by him? That’s right! The catchy tune that had everyone dancing and smiling in 2013 actually had a different singer in its original version.
It may come as a surprise, but it’s true! In this article, we will uncover the mystery behind the original singer of ‘Happy’ and delve into how it eventually ended up in Pharrell’s hands.
Imagine hearing ‘Happy’ for the first time and not recognizing Pharrell’s unique voice as the one behind it. Well, that was exactly the case with the original version of this feel-good anthem. Before Pharrell took on the song, it was recorded by another artist who brought their own style and interpretation to it.
While many people may be unaware of this fact, digging deeper into the origins of ‘Happy’ reveals an interesting story about how music can evolve and find its way to unexpected places.
So, put on your detective hat and get ready to discover who originally sang ‘Happy’. You might be surprised by what you find out!
The Original Version of “Happy”
You might be surprised to learn that the original version of ‘Happy’ was actually sung by CeeLo Green! Before Pharrell Williams recorded his own iconic version, CeeLo Green had already given life to this infectious anthem.
Released in 2013 as part of the soundtrack for the animated film ‘Despicable Me 2,’ CeeLo’s rendition captivated audiences with its upbeat melody and positive lyrics.
CeeLo Green’s version of ‘Happy’ showcased his unique vocal style and brought a soulful touch to the song. His smooth and powerful voice added depth and emotion, making it an instant hit among listeners. Although Pharrell Williams later released his own rendition, there is something special about CeeLo’s original interpretation that can’t be replicated.
‘Crazy’ singer, CeeLo Green, is known for his soulful performances and ability to infuse energy into any song he sings. With ‘Happy,’ he took a catchy tune and transformed it into a heartfelt anthem that resonated with people around the world. While Pharrell may have popularized the song even further, it was initially CeeLo who introduced us to its infectious joy and positivity.
Uncovering the Original Singer
Discovering the true vocalist behind the popular song brings a sense of intrigue and appreciation for the original rendition. While Pharrell’s version of ‘Happy’ became a worldwide hit, it’s fascinating to learn that he wasn’t the original singer.
The song was actually written and recorded by CeeLo Green in 2013 for his album ‘CeeLo’s Magic Moment.’ Hearing CeeLo’s soulful voice on the track gives a different vibe compared to Pharrell’s rendition. It showcases the versatility of the song, as it can be interpreted differently by different artists.
CeeLo Green’s version of ‘Happy’ has a distinct R&B flavor that perfectly complements his vocal style. His smooth and emotive delivery adds depth and soulfulness to the lyrics, making it an equally enjoyable listen. Although Pharrell did an incredible job with his own interpretation of the song, hearing CeeLo sing it reminds us of its origins and gives credit to its creator.
Uncovering CeeLo Green as the original singer also sheds light on his talent as both a songwriter and performer. It shows that he had faith in this catchy tune long before Pharrell decided to put his spin on it. This discovery allows us to appreciate not only Pharrell’s version but also CeeLo’s contribution to its creation.
Learning that CeeLo Green was originally responsible for singing ‘Happy’ adds another layer of appreciation for this beloved track. His unique vocal style gives a different perspective on the song, highlighting its versatility across various genres. So next time you hear ‘Happy,’ take a moment to acknowledge CeeLo Green’s impact and give credit where credit is due.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the original version of ‘Happy’ was actually sung by none other than Pharrell himself. It’s hard to imagine anyone else bringing that infectious energy and joy to the song like he did.
From its catchy melody to its uplifting lyrics, ‘Happy’ has become a worldwide anthem for happiness and positivity. Whether you’re feeling down or just need a pick-me-up, this song is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and get you dancing along.
So next time you hear ‘Happy’ playing on the radio, remember that Pharrell was not only the mastermind behind the song but also its original singer.
But even though Pharrell’s version of ‘Happy’ has become iconic in its own right, it’s always interesting to discover how songs can evolve and change over time. Who knows what other hidden gems are out there just waiting to be uncovered?
So keep exploring new music and never stop appreciating the artists who bring us these incredible songs. And whenever you need a little boost of happiness in your life, just remember to turn up the volume on ‘Happy’ and let yourself get lost in its infectious rhythm.
