Don't Worry, Be Happy

Don't Worry, Be Happy is the title and iconic principal lyric of a novelty song by jazz composer Bobby McFerrin, the first a cappella song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in September of 1988.

Related Topics:
Novelty song - Bobby McFerrin - A cappella - Billboard Hot 100 - 1988

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It was featured on the soundtrack of the Tom Cruise film Cocktail, which may have helped its popularity. Public Enemy referenced the song in their song "Fight the Power," which featured the lyric, "'Don't Worry Be Happy' was a number one jam/Damn, if I say it you can slap me right here."

Related Topics:
Soundtrack - Tom Cruise - Cocktail - Public Enemy

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The song was used in George H. W. Bush's campaign in the 1988 U.S. presidential election until McFerrin objected, and the campaign desisted. The phrase has entered the English language, often used as an ironic criticism of the attitude someone has about a worrisome issue. For example: "His attitude towards flood insurance was, 'Don't Worry, Be Happy.'"

Related Topics:
George H. W. Bush - 1988 U.S. presidential election

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The song is also a Karaoke favorite. It has been parodied on the animated show, Futurama and in a rental car commercial. The title of the song is occasionally used as a motto by an individual or group and is sometimes associated with the appearance of the Smiley.

Related Topics:
Futurama - Smiley

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