Music Makes Me Happy

Musically varied songs you haven't heard before.

Artist: Robbi K & Friends
Genre: Children's Music Label: 40/Shorty Re:Kids Inc. Parental Advisory: No Edited Version Available: No Release Date: 07/17/2007

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that most of these positive songs emphasize the importance of being happy. Some of the songs are a little bit long -- one clocks in at almost six minutes -- but kids won't get bored with these upbeat tunes (except for the repetitive beats and simple melody of "Music is My Friend"). Themes range from the silly ("Eating Some Pizza") to history ("John Henry") to peace ("The Peace Song").

Families can talk about the importance of having a positive outlook. What are some things that make you happy? What makes you sad? What can you do when you're feeling sad to turn your frown upside down?

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Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Erin Brereton

MUSIC MAKES ME HAPPY's upbeat tempo seems to make Robbi K and Friends' voices happy, too. And in case there's any confusion over her mood, listen to track 9, titled: "Happy! Happy! Happy! Happy! Happy." This is Robbi's third CD, featuring guests like Riverdance fiddler Eileen Ivers and Jon "Bowzer" Bauman of Sha Na Na. The CD's lyrics are simple enough for toddlers to sing along to -- with lines like "Sometimes, my friends make me mad!" -- but are modern enough to draw them in ("it's my bling, bling"). The vocals aren't polished (especially on "I Love My Teacher"), but that's part of their charm; they range from kids singing to Robbi K's strong, clear voice. The album also brings in many musical styles, from island vibes on "Summer's Here" to torch song touches on "Got Me Laughing Blues," which if you didn't listen to the lyrics about taking a bath in the sink, could easily be performed in an adult jazz club. "The Peace Song" -- which starts with a spoken word and morphs into a beautiful vocal and string arrangement -- ends the album on a strong note. Overall, this album is an optimistic one. Robbi says in one of her songs, "a positive attitude, baby, will do you a world of good," and after these 11 tracks, it will be a world listeners will want to live in.

For other CDs with positive messages, check out Wonder Pets! and Dora's World Adventure.

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