"Happy or Lonesome" is likely based on an earlier parlor song and was first collected by Dick Burnett and published in 1913 as "Are You Happy or Lonesome" in his songster; the same songster that produced "Man Of Constant Sorrow." Burnett and Rutherford first recorded the song in 1927.

The Carters slight name change was probably recommended by Peer to prevent copyright problems since the song was copyrighted by Columbia.

HAPPY OR LONESOME- Carter Family, 1934

          Come back to me in my dreaming
          Come back to me once more
          Come with the love light gleaming
          As in the days of yore
          I wonder if you still love me
          And if your heart is still true
          When the spring roses are blooming
          Then I'll come back to you

               Somewhere a heart is breaking
               And calling me back to you
               Memories of loved ones awaiting
               Each happy home and you
               Absence makes my heart fonder
               Is it the same with you
               Are you still happy, I wonder
               Or do you feel lonesome, too
               [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]

          When the sun is sinking
          In the golden west
          And the birds and flowers
          They have gone to rest
          Come tell me that you still love me
          And that your heart is still true
          When the spring roses are blooming
          Then I'll come back to you

               Somewhere a heart is breaking
               And calling me back to you
               Memories of loved ones awaiting
               Each happy home and you
               Absence makes my heart fonder
               Is it the same with you
               Are you still happy, I wonder
               Or do you feel lonesome, too