1972 was a year of significant cultural shifts. With the passing of Title IX, which banned discrimination based on sex in educational institutions, and the launch of Ms. magazine, the world was ready for a revolution. Enter Marlo Thomas and Friends with their groundbreaking album, Free to Be…You and Me. This collection of songs tackled gender stereotypes and celebrated equality and acceptance in a way that was truly ahead of its time. Who among us didn’t belt out the empowering anthem “William’s Doll” or the heartfelt “It’s Alright to Cry” from the backseat of the family car?
Marlo Thomas was inspired to create this album after a frustrating search for bedtime stories that didn’t reinforce outdated gender roles. In her quest, she gathered a group of talented artists, including the likes of Mel Brooks and Diana Ross, to produce an album that would shape the childhoods of many. While some parents today may choose more contemporary children’s albums, the messages of Free to Be…You and Me remain as relevant and inspiring as ever. I once gifted my niece a CD of this cherished album, only to find it gathering dust, overshadowed by the likes of Teen Beach 2 or Frozen. Perhaps I was a bit naive, hoping to share my childhood treasure with a new generation.
Highlights from the Album
- Free to Be…You and Me (music by Stephen J. Lawrence, lyrics by Bruce Hart, performed by The New Seekers)
The title track serves as a powerful reminder that children should be free to be themselves. The beautiful lyrics, “Take my hand, come with me, where the children are free,” evoke the spirit of the era. - Boy Meets Girl (written by Carl Reiner and Peter Stone, performed by Mel Brooks and Marlo Thomas)
In this playful exchange, the characters grapple with gender identity through humorous misunderstandings, challenging the very stereotypes they portray. - When We Grow Up (performed by Diana Ross)
This poignant song reflects the fears children have about growing up and changing, emphasizing the importance of friendship regardless of life’s transformations. - Don’t Dress Your Cat in an Apron (written by Dan Greenburg, performed by Billy De Wolfe)
A fun reminder that self-expression should not be confined by societal expectations—everyone should wear what they want. - Parents Are People (written by Carol Hall, performed by Harry Belafonte and Marlo Thomas)
This catchy tune offers a revolutionary perspective for children, allowing them to understand that their parents have lives and stories beyond their roles as caregivers. - Housework (performed by Carol Channing)
Channing’s comedic take on housework reveals the hidden truths behind domestic chores, encouraging children to pitch in and help. - Helping (written by Shel Silverstein, performed by Tom Smothers)
This clever poem addresses the complexities of helping others—sometimes, help is more of a hindrance. - Ladies First (performed by Marlo Thomas)
This cautionary tale humorously critiques entitlement, delivering a valuable lesson about humility. - It’s All Right to Cry (performed by Rosey Grier)
A heartfelt anthem that reassures children that all feelings, even the difficult ones, are valid. - William’s Doll (performed by Alan Alda and Marlo Thomas)
A touching narrative that defends a boy’s desire for a doll, challenging the notion that such preferences are “sissy.” - Atalanta (performed by Alan Alda and Marlo Thomas)
A modern fairy tale about a princess who chooses her own path, reinforcing the idea that happiness doesn’t always come from marriage. - Girl Land (performed by Jack Cassidy and Shirley Jones)
A haunting critique of gender roles wrapped in a whimsical amusement park metaphor—definitely not your average children’s song! - Glad to Have a Friend Like You (performed by Marlo Thomas)
The album closes on a sweet note, celebrating friendship and individuality.
Listening to Free to Be…You and Me today is like revisiting a masterclass in gender politics packaged as a catchy rock album. I may have missed many of its nuanced messages as a child, but upon reflection, it’s clear that its lessons are just as vital today. Every kid deserves to experience the infectious joy of its title track at least once.
In summary, Free to Be…You and Me is not just an album; it’s a cultural touchstone that continues to inspire discussions around identity and acceptance. If you’re interested in exploring more about parenting and children’s media, check out this insightful post on our blog. For those considering at-home insemination methods, a trusted source for supplies can be found at Make a Mom. Alternatively, if you’re looking for comprehensive information on the insemination process, Parents offers excellent resources too.
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