Bright Happy Day

Here's an upbeat song about being... well... upbeat. Perfect for the beginning of the school year, but great any time! It is based on the premise that, for the most part, our attitude is a matter of choice. In fact, it has been said that if you put a smile on your face, even if it is forced, it will become authentic in a minute or two.

"Bright Happy Day" encourages the practice of smiling with a peppy unison melody and happy sounding chord progressions. Even the guitar licks sound smiley! You might want to point out the sound of the 12-string electric guitar in measures 23-26 and 43 to the end. This sound was made famous by The Byrds in the 1960s, and sounds particularly happy.

This is a pop song, so make sure to observe the vocal scoops and let the kids have fun by singing stylistically. The singers on our recording offer a good example to follow.

A clapping part is included on the music, but the steady rock beat definitely lends itself to lots of percussion possibilities. How about a tambourine on beats two and four; a cowbell on beats one, three, and four; a clave on beat two; and a drum on beats four/and (the last two eighth notes of the measure). Or make up your own parts. That oughta keep your kids busy! And remember, while they - and you - are singing, smile!