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Parenting
By: Anna Mitchell
Updated: April 25, 2023
Originally Published: April 25, 2016
As I watched my parents and their friends eagerly anticipating my next performance, I couldn’t help but feel like a star. With a tutu twirling around me and a confident pose, I belted out Prince’s iconic “Raspberry Beret.” The laughter and applause from the adults filled the room, and I took my little bow, feeling a surge of joy and belonging.
Sure, some might argue that it’s questionable to encourage a 4-year-old to entertain tipsy guests with Prince’s suggestive lyrics—but to me, it was a magical experience. I didn’t feel exploited; rather, I felt special and included. While other kids my age couldn’t sing Prince, I could—and that made me feel part of a wonderful community. My parents played Prince’s music around me, allowing me to connect with an art form larger than myself. I even picked up on Aerosmith’s “Love in an Elevator,” singing lyrics I didn’t fully understand but would carry with me for life.
As I grew older, my love for music deepened. I became familiar with the greats—David Bowie, The Beatles, and so many others. When Bowie passed away, I took it upon myself to share his genius with my sons. We danced to “Starman” and “Ziggy Stardust,” and though they didn’t initially grasp the lyrics, they felt the rhythm and joy. They now associate these songs with fond memories, something I hope will last a lifetime.
The same goes for The Beatles. My youngest became enamored with “Yellow Submarine,” claiming it as his own, while the older boys battled over the correct lyrics of various songs. It’s a beautiful thing to see them connect through music, arguing over their favorite tunes and sharing the joy of these classics.
This is why it’s vital to introduce your children to the music you love. Sure, it’s amusing to watch a child sing “Purple Rain,” but it’s also about giving them a piece of culture that shapes their identity. When Prince and Bowie passed, I cherished the fact that my kids had at least heard their names, thanks to the music we shared.
Encourage your children to explore the sounds you adore. Play them the works of Ani DiFranco, The Indigo Girls, and Tom Waits. This not only connects them to something greater but also fosters an appreciation for art and music that can last a lifetime.
So, give your kids the gift of “Purple Rain.” It’s not just a song; it’s a doorway into a world of culture and connection. For more insights on parenting through music and culture, check out this resource on fertility. And if you’re interested in at-home insemination kits, you can find a reliable selection at Cryobaby.
Summary:
Sharing music with your children, like Prince’s “Purple Rain,” creates lasting connections and cultural appreciation. Encouraging them to explore artists like Bowie and The Beatles not only enriches their lives but also deepens family bonds. Music is a gift that transcends generations, and every note is a step towards a more profound understanding of art and identity.
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