Clark Gesner was an American composer and singer best known for creating music for the beloved musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. His catchy and playful songs from the show became favorites, loved by both kids and adults.
Through his singing and songwriting, he brought the Peanuts characters to life, making his music a lasting part of musical theater and family-friendly entertainment.
About the Song
Happiness is a warm, uplifting song that beautifully captures the joy in life’s simple pleasures. It shares feelings of comfort, hope, and childlike wonder.
The lyrics remind listeners that true happiness often comes from small, everyday moments, filling the heart with positivity and gentle emotions.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | 1999 |
| Album | You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Original Cast Recording) |
| Writers | Clark Gesner |
Happiness Lyrics by Clark Gesner
CHARLIE BROWN, spoken
I’m so happy! That little red-haired girl dropped her pencil—it has teeth marks all over it. She nibbles her pencil. She’s human! It hasn’t been such a bad day after all.
Sung
Happiness is finding a pencil
SNOOPY
Pizza with sausage
LINUS
Telling the time
SCHROEDER
Happiness is learning to whistle
LINUS
Tying your shoe for the very first time!
SALLY
Happiness is playing the drums in your own school band
CHARLIE BROWN
And happiness is walking hand in hand
Happiness is two kinds of ice cream
LUCY
Knowing a secret
SCHROEDER
Climbing a tree
CHARLIE BROWN
Happiness is five different crayons
SCHROEDER
Catching a firefly, setting him free
CHARLIE BROWN
Happiness is being alone every now and then
ALL
And happiness is coming home again
CHARLIE BROWN
Happiness is morning and evening
Daytime and nighttime too
For happiness is anyone and anything at all
That’s loved by you
LINUS
Happiness is having a sister
LUCY
Sharing a sandwich
LINUS & LUCY
Getting along!
ALL
Happiness is singing together when day is through
And happiness is those who sing with you
Happiness is morning and evening
Daytime and nighttime too
CHARLIE BROWN
For happiness is anyone and anything at all
That’s loved by you!
LUCY, spoken
You’re a good man, Charlie Brown
Similar Songs Like Happiness
Check out these songs, such as “Happiness,” each filled with cheerful energy, playful themes, and heartwarming moments featuring beloved characters.
- “Suppertime“: It is a fun, energetic song full of excitement, as Snoopy happily sings about his favorite time of the day for dinner.
- “The Kite“: A lighthearted song where Charlie Brown hopes his kite will finally fly, showing hope and never giving up.
- “Book Report“: This is a playful song that showcases different kids’ creative and humorous ways of writing a book report about Peter Rabbit.
- “The Baseball Game“: It’s a lively song filled with energy, as the gang sings about teamwork and the fun chaos of playing baseball together.
Awards for The Song
| Category | Award |
|---|---|
| Original Off-Broadway Production (1967) | Outer Critics Circle Award |
| Original Off-Broadway Production(1967) | Drama Desk Award |
| Original Off-Broadway Production(1967) | Drama Desk Award |
| Original Off-Broadway Production(1967) | Theatre World Award |
| Original Off-Broadway Production(1967) | Clarence Derwent Award |
| 1999 Broadway Revival (1999) | Tony Award |
| 1999 Broadway Revival (1999) | Tony Award |
| 1999 Broadway Revival (1999) | Drama Desk Award |
Similar Artists Like Clark Gesner
Here are artists like Clark Gesner, known for creating amazing musical theatre songs with beautiful melodies and memorable stories.
-
Stephen Schwartz
Genre: Musical Theatre, Pop
Top Album: Godspell (1971) -
Charles Strouse
Genre: Musical Theatre, Broadway
Top Album: Annie (1977) -
Jerry Herman
Genre: Musical Theatre, Broadway
Top Album: Hello, Dolly! (1964) -
Meredith Willson
Genre: Musical Theatre, Traditional Pop
Top Album: The Music Man (1957) -
Frank Loesser
Genre: Musical Theatre, Traditional Pop
Top Album: Guys and Dolls (1950)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Character Said You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown?
Lucy Van Pelt says this line in the musical’s finale, acknowledging Charlie Brown’s constant optimism and moral character despite his self-doubt.
Which Characters Sing Happiness in The Musical?
The song is an ensemble piece featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally, and Schroeder, each sharing their unique take on happiness.
Why is Happiness Considered Iconic in Musical Theater?
Its relatable lyrics and memorable tune connect with people of all ages, showcasing the Peanuts gang’s hopeful and playful spirit.
