In 1972, a wave of progressive change swept across the United States, marked by the passage of Title IX, the launch of Ms. magazine, and the release of Marlo Thomas and Friends’ groundbreaking album, Free to Be…You and Me. This collection of songs tackled issues of gender equality, acceptance, and the dismantling of stereotypes, resonating deeply with children everywhere. Who could forget the joy of singing along to the empowering anthem “William’s Doll” from the backseat of a wood-paneled station wagon or the heartfelt “It’s Alright to Cry”?
Marlo Thomas was inspired to create Free to Be… after noticing a lack of bedtime stories for her niece that challenged traditional gender roles. In collaboration with luminaries like Mel Brooks and Diana Ross, the album emerged as a transformative force for young listeners. While some parents today may opt for contemporary children’s music, the timeless messages and catchy melodies of Free to Be… are just as relevant and inspiring now as they were in the past.
Key Tracks from the Album
- Free to Be…You and Me – The title track serves as a bold declaration, encouraging children to embrace their individuality. Its uplifting lyrics evoke a sense of freedom and possibility, reminiscent of other iconic hits from the ’70s.
- Boy Meets Girl – Featuring Mel Brooks and Marlo Thomas, this comedic exchange humorously explores gender misconceptions through childlike logic, ultimately reinforcing the notion that gender does not dictate aspirations.
- When We Grow Up – Sung by Diana Ross in the original album and later by Roberta Flack and Michael Jackson in the TV special, this poignant duet captures the uncertainty children face about growing up and the importance of maintaining friendships despite changes.
- Don’t Dress Your Cat in an Apron – This playful tune emphasizes self-expression and individuality, reminding listeners that personal style should never be constrained by societal norms.
- Parents Are People – This delightful song challenges the idea of parents solely as caregivers, illustrating their multifaceted identities and interests, which can include anything from driving taxis to performing on television.
- Housework – Carol Channing’s reading cleverly points out that housework is often unglamorous yet manageable when shared, delivering a valuable lesson in teamwork.
- Helping – A humorous take on the sometimes misguided attempts at help, this track serves as a reminder that not all assistance is beneficial.
- Ladies First – A cautionary tale about entitlement, this song critiques the notion that being a “lady” should come with special privileges, delivering a powerful message about equality.
- It’s All Right to Cry – Sung by Rosey Grier, this heartfelt ballad encourages emotional expression, reminding children that it’s perfectly acceptable to feel and share their feelings.
- William’s Doll – This touching story of a boy who loves dolls advocates for nurturing behavior in all genders, challenging the stigma attached to non-traditional interests.
- Atalanta – This fairy tale featuring a clever princess celebrates independence and the idea that happiness can exist outside of traditional romantic paths.
- Girl Land – A haunting critique of gender expectations, this song presents a dystopian amusement park where girls are trapped by societal norms, highlighting the importance of breaking free from restrictive roles.
- Glad to Have a Friend Like You – Closing the album on a sweet note, this song promotes friendship and self-acceptance, encouraging children to be true to themselves while celebrating their unique qualities.
Listening to Free to Be…You and Me today feels like a nostalgic journey through childhood, filled with catchy tunes and deep societal lessons. It’s clear that the powerful messages about gender equality and acceptance remain essential for today’s youth. No child should miss out on the joy of experiencing this vibrant album at least once.
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In summary, Free to Be…You and Me stands as a foundational album that encourages acceptance and individuality, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with new generations.