Parents Swear by ‘The Happy Song’ for Instantly Calming Crying Babies
Every parent knows the struggle—sometimes babies cry for reasons that aren’t immediately clear. You check the usual suspects—hunger, tiredness, discomfort—but even after addressing all the basics, the wailing continues.
That’s when you start getting creative: bouncing, rocking, singing, going outside—anything to soothe them. Now, thanks to a group of researchers and musician Imogen Heap, there's another trick to add to the toolbox: The Happy Song.
A Song Designed Just for Babies
Unlike most lullabies, The Happy Song was created specifically to make babies happy. Researchers in the U.K. surveyed 2,300 parents to identify sounds that delighted their little ones—things like sneezing (51%), baby laughter (28%), and animal noises (23%). Those elements were woven into the song, which features playful melodies, a steady 4/4 rhythm, and even Heap’s husband whistling alongside the sound of a Pomeranian dog.
https://www.tiktok.com/@salliehasemeier01/video/7314858709065272619
The final version was tested and refined based on baby reactions, ensuring the perfect balance of cheerful sounds and engaging lyrics. Released in 2016, it has since become a go-to tool for soothing fussy infants.
Parents Share Their Baby’s Reactions
Videos of babies instantly calming down to The Happy Song have gone viral, proving just how effective it can be. One mom shared how her baby, mid-meltdown, stopped crying the second the song started playing:
🎥 @salliehasemeier01: “‘The Happy Song’ by Imogen Heap is literally MAGIC.”
Another video shows twin toddlers getting fussy in their high chairs—until the familiar tune begins, and they instantly settle.
🎥 @kwardo86: “Works like a charm every time.”
Many parents say the song is a lifesaver, especially in the car, where soothing a crying baby is nearly impossible.
🎥 @whataboutaub: “Does this work for your baby??? Absolute game-changer for road trips.”
Parents Can’t Stop Praising It
In the comments, parents rave about the song’s calming magic:
🗣️ “We listen to this song 100x a day. It never fails.”
🗣️ “It’s the only thing that makes diaper changes bearable.”
🗣️ “Not as annoying as most kids' songs, thankfully!”
🗣️ “My 12-month-old STILL stops crying when he hears it.”
While not every baby reacts the same way, The Happy Song has worked for enough families that it’s earned over 62 million YouTube views. If you’re dealing with a fussy baby, it’s definitely worth a shot!