This Fourth of July am thinking a lot about the pursuit of happiness. Two separate thoughts really….the process of pursuing happiness, and the right to do so.

I automatically default to my favorite Yogi Berra analogy to illustrate when something is a lot harder than it looks:  Yes, sometimes the pursuit of happiness, like baseball, is 90% mental and the other half physical.

To get out of the head, and into the heart, and maybe even some bouncing around the kitchen as you make coffee, 9 favorite musical takes on happiness. Some original videos some unexpected. Happy 4th to all, and  ENJOY!

Bobby McFerrin’s  Don’t Worry, Be Happy  As good as his version was, this one is even better

Simon and Garfunkle 59th St Bridge Song (Feeling Groovy) Most agree it’s just about taking time to be happy. HOWEVER one urban legend expert chalks its inspiration to cops burning confiscated pot while turning on a whole neighborhood. Seems counter-intuitive to me, but anyway….

Michael Franti Brighter Day Always the optimist with a cup full of love and hope this guy

Timbuk3 The Future’s So Bright Strong contender for the most favorite song you forgot about

The Edwin Hawkins Singers  Oh Happy Day  Originally recorded to raise money for a youth choir, this gospel anthem was a Top 40 Billboard hit

Katrina and the Waves Walking on Sunshine OK, so another contender for most favorite song you forgot about

Pharell Williams Happy  ‘Nuf said

Cowsills The Rain, The Park and Other Things Appropriately weird (1967) title, but you can’t not sing along

Queen Don’t Stop Me Now  Mr. Fahrenheit indeed!!