Music Friday

"Music is an essential part of everything we do...music has an abstract quality which speaks to a worldwide audience in a wonderful way that nourishes the soul." - Jim Henson

I've tried to be very careful with the music and TV shows we listen to/watch while Sam is around, but I rarely gave the radio a second thought. Until that day when Sam started singing "Superbass". Unprompted. The radio wasn't even on. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Nikki Minaj and those girls that were on Ellen are presh, but it startled me that Sam could pick up on lyrics so easily, and was so willing to repeat them. Game changer!

With that, I've started being more selective about the music we listen to on the go, and in the home. Here are my top picks for kid-friendly songs and CD's that are especially effective at getting Sam's tiny toes tapping:

1. Harry Connick Jr.'s "Songs I Heard" - This gem came out 10 years ago, but I feel like it's often overlooked. It's a collection of kid-friendly songs, including a really fun rendition of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" (sp?!) and a big band version of "You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile". I love Harry, and I love this CD.

2. New Orleans music, such as The Meters' "They All Ask'd for You", "Carnival Time" by Al Johnson, and Professor Longhair's "Big Chief". These songs are part of the fabric of the city and my childhood, and they'll be prevalent in Sam's, as well. He especially loves The Meters. What can I say? The boy can appreciate funk.

3. Caspar Babypants is a favorite among northwest parents. My brother gave me a CD of their music and it's been through the rotation a few times. "Dog Gone Gone Dog Gone" is a car ride favorite.

Music that both kids and parents can agree on? That's reason enough to celebrate.

Happy weekend, y'all!

Lynne