24 February 2025

Pippi’s 80-year anniversary is celebrated with a new birthday song by Laleh

2025 marks the 80th anniversary of one of the world’s most beloved children’s book characters – Pippi Longstocking. To honor this timeless icon, artist, songwriter, and producer Laleh has created a brand-new birthday song titled “Hurra!” to coincide with the celebrations.

Since Astrid Lindgren introduced Pippi Longstocking in 1945, the character has inspired generations of children and adults worldwide with her strength, independence, and zest for life. The 80th-anniversary celebration promises a party for everyone who adores Pippi, featuring a range of activities, exhibitions and surprises both in Sweden and internationally.

Laleh’s Creative Vision

Reflecting on her work for the birthday song, Laleh shared:

“I was very happy but also curious when I was asked to create Pippi’s birthday song. What would it actually sound like? I wanted to write a song where Pippi is still the strongest in the world, but now also for posterity, and where the big questions in life are mostly about what one feels like doing—where a cocky ‘I’ll see what I want’ is the only great truth to live by.”

Photo of Laleh — Laleh. Photo: © Gustaf Thörn

Listen to the song here:

A Perfect Tribute

Johan Palmberg, Astrid Lindgren’s great-grandson and a representative of The Astrid Lindgren Company, describes the song as a perfect tribute to Pippi:

“For 80 years, Pippi has inspired children and adults to think freely and be brave. Celebrating her with a new song by Laleh, an artist who truly captures Pippi’s spirit, feels fantastic. She was our obvious choice as songwriter, artist, and producer for this project, and when Universal Music announced her involvement, we were thrilled. We hope that ‘Hurra!’ becomes a song cherished by many, both now and in the future.”

Worldwide Celebrations

Pippi’s 80th birthday celebration will continue throughout the year with various events and collaborations across the globe. “Hurra!” is now available on all major music platforms, such as Spotify. In time for Pippi’s birthday in May, an animated music video will also be released.