The ABC Song

The melody of "The ABC Song" was first published in the French book of music Les Amusements d'une Heure et Demy (transl.

[2] "The ABC Song" was first copyrighted in 1835 by Boston music publisher Charles Bradlee under the title "The A.B.C., a German air with variations for the flute with an easy accompaniment for the piano forte.

Due to the speed at which 'L, M, N, O, P' is spoken, it is a common misconception among children still learning the alphabet to believe that it is in fact its own letter called "elemenopee".

[5][6] The television series Sesame Street has covered the song many times, collaborating with popular artists such as Stevie Wonder, Katy Perry, Nina Simone and Usher.

[12] A French-language version of the song is also taught in Canada, with generally no alterations to the melody except in the final line that requires adjustment to accommodate the two-syllable pronunciation of the French y.

Music for the alphabet song including some common variations on the lyrics