Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that the subject matter of the lyrics is mostly benign and at times even positive. However, there are some mature lyrics about love and the powerful desire to fit in and be fashionable. The music is also more mature than most kids' fare -- similar to Destiny's Child or some of Prince's arrangements.
Families can talk about the Bratz credos of always being fashionable as well as their positive message of self-empowerment. Can a girl look amazing and fit in with the crowd while also maintaining meaningful friendships and a healthy sense of self-esteem? Or are these mixed messages?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Scott Bierko
Matthew Gerrard and Robbie Neil, the tuneful co-writers and producers of this CD, are enjoying quite a run of success. Their High School Musical, another Disney project, is the talk of the town amongst the tweens in most middle schools. The Bratz product line -– an ever-growing collection of super fashionable hip-hop diva dolls and an accompanying TV show –- is focused on younger children, though, and parents need to be vigilant in determining if the messages sent by the Bratz pack are appropriate for their kids.
There are some bright moments here. The music is very danceable, and songs such as "Rollin" include positive messages like "Cruisin', choosin', Where I wanna be/Trouble comin' never stoppin' me/Groovin', movin' and I feel like/ If I had wings then I could fly/ Never givin in, no matter what comes." But are these age-appropriate messages for the kids buying Bratz dolls? Not really.
On the other end of the spectrum, the lyricists offer up these more suggestive lyrics on "The Real You": "I wanna be the one to make you happy/So let me show you how/I'll forever be faithful and true...let me show you how I feel." Lyrics like these are barely acceptable for tweens, and some parents might find them definitely inappropriate for younger ears.
The vocalist, Lauren Evans, is superb and some of the songs are enjoyable to listen to. The problem remains, however, that the Bratz are first and foremost products with a message imbedded in them: Be cool and be fashionable. This is not for every family.
Rate It!
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Sexual ContentSome mild references to relationships. |
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Social BehaviorThe Bratz are all about fashion and fitting in. |
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CommercialismAn obvious tie-in to the dolls. |
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