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American Juniors (by American Juniors, Children's Music)

common sense media says

Peppy intro to pop music, via classic covers.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this CD is another plastic product of the American Idol craze. Specifically, it's a group of talented and cute young singers, ages 6 to 13, created by ABC television and pushed hard by sister company Disney on Radio Disney. Is it wholesome? You bet. There's nothing obviously offensive on this CD, except, perhaps, the entire concept of using these kids to churn out disposable music that's making someone a bunch of money. Nonetheless, for kids and tweens, the CD is a peppy introduction to wholesome pop music, via classic cover songs.

Positive messages: Vague clichés about partying and relationships are everywhere.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: None, other than whatever kids can deduce from love songs about holding each other, etc.
Language: Nothing bad.
Consumerism: Pretty minor, beyond a quick Hummer reference.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Nothing specific.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on American Juniors

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about materialism and the media. How does the media try to manipulate young people into becoming consumers?

What's the story?

What's the story?
The kids on AMERICAN JUNIORS can sing, to be sure, even if they're merely following in the faux-soul footsteps of pop princesses like Christina Aguilera. The content is harmlessly lite, though it may be a bit much for adults hearing elementary school kids singing clichés about lost love and wanting to be "back in your arms where I belong." This CD isn't a bad way to introduce your kids to safe pop music -- at least it's the kids doing the singing. And so what if the cover of Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors" sounds like a television commercial? The vocal production is decent, much better than the synth-heavy music.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Content is safe on the album, but don't look for anything resembling depth. Lyrics are pretty indicative of star-crossed culture; for example, they tackle paparazzi and driving to parties in a Hummer in "No Matta What (Party All Night Long)." But why have a 6-year-old singing about partying all night long? It's not in-your-face offensive, but just seems weird. The best song is a cover of the Jackson 5's "ABC," which landed the group in the Top 30 at Radio Disney, for what's it's worth.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: October 26, 2004
Label: Jive Records
Genre: Children's Music
This review was written by Tony Hicks
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

dancer917
adult
 
I LOVE AMERICAN JUNIORS AND THIS CD IS THE BEST!!!!!!!!
Well, The American Juniors are back and better than ever!!! They sound great on this CD. They're voices have all gotten a lot stronger since their 1st CD. Taylor, Tori, Danielle, Chauncey, and Lucy do a great job of singing these songs. This is a great CD that you can never get tired of. Some of my favorite songs on it are True Colors, Emotional, ABC, and well all of them!! If you haven't bought it yet, go buy it now!!!! IT'S WORTH YOUR MONEY!!!!!!!!Peace Out!!
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gp811
adult
 
Excellent CD
Just to clarify things, the "American Juniors" show was on FOX, not ABC. Therefore, the American Juniors have no affiliation with Disney, so whatever success they can get on Radio Disney they have to earn. Second, the group members are now ages 11 to 15--no 6 year olds. These kids are very sweet and talented, and just love to sing. This album can be enjoyed by people of all ages, if they're just given a chance. It's a lot better than what else is out there.
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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines