When I was ten years old, I entered my aunt’s kitchen in New England and overheard a startling conversation between her and my mother. Their expressions were filled with disbelief as they sipped their coffee. I couldn’t help but listen in as they voiced their concerns about a certain pop star:
“She’s so inappropriate, performing in a wedding dress!”
“And those lyrics! I was mortified when I heard them on the radio with the kids in the car.”
The year was 1984, and they were discussing Madonna’s controversial performance at the MTV Music Awards where she sang “Like a Virgin.” To me, Madonna was the ultimate icon. Her bold style and defiant attitude captured my imagination, and I adored her hits. As I stood there, I was puzzled by their outrage.
At that age, I didn’t fully grasp the meaning of “virgin,” and while I sang along with her songs in front of my mirror, it would be years before I understood their significance. To her credit, my mother didn’t restrict my access to music. In fact, I was surprised when she tucked the Beastie Boys’ cassette Licensed to Ill into my Easter basket that same year. She chose to overlook the music I loved, even if it wasn’t her taste.
This is precisely why I refrain from censoring music in my home today. Our household is always alive with music. Whether we’re sharing meals, tackling chores, or unwinding, music is a constant presence. My partner and I enjoy a variety of genres, from ’80s hits to country tunes, and we also appreciate the creativity in jazz and rap.
Our home is often filled with music, and yes, the lyrics can be explicit. My children might even sing along to tracks that would shock some parents. They know the words to Sir Mix-a-Lot’s “Baby Got Back” and Tone Lōc’s “Wild Thing.” I’ve introduced them to Madonna’s “Papa Don’t Preach” and Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On.” We’ve shared countless memories, from teaching them the cabbage patch dance to slow dancing in the kitchen to our wedding song.
Music is integral to our family life, and I believe they aren’t negatively influenced by a few choice words. When they’ve asked about certain lyrics, I’ve answered their questions honestly. Admittedly, explaining “my anaconda don’t want none unless you’ve got buns, hun” was a bit awkward. However, I won’t change the station when Sir Mix-a-Lot comes on, as his music brings back fond memories for me.
Take, for example, the Hamilton: An American Musical soundtrack. My kids are captivated by Lin-Manuel Miranda’s lyrical brilliance and frequently listen to the soundtrack on their iPods. Sure, there are explicit lyrics, but they’ve gained a deeper understanding of history through these songs. When their school lessons align with the lyrics they know by heart, it excites them, and they laugh at King George III’s character. Is it wrong to overlook a few swear words when it allows my children to engage with history in such a fun, dynamic way?
So, no, I won’t be the mom fretting at the kitchen table over songs like “I Kissed a Girl” by Katy Perry or “Sexy and I Know It” by LMFAO. In fact, I find myself swaying to Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” while cooking and cranking up the volume when a P!nk song plays. The music my children listen to is no more shocking than what I experienced growing up, and I take pride in fostering an environment where they can appreciate the culture and diversity that music offers—even if Sir Mix-a-Lot sometimes puts me in a bind.
In conclusion, embracing music in its entirety can enrich our children’s lives, providing them with learning opportunities and joyful moments. For more on improving fertility, you can explore topics on fertility supplements at Make a Mom. If you’re looking for a reliable source for home insemination kits, check out Make a Mom. Additionally, for insights into what to expect with your first IUI, you can refer to this resource from Parents.
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