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Yes to Running! (by Bill Harley, Children's Music)

common sense media says

Terrific music from a kid's point of view.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Bill Harley's irreverent, refreshing songs and stories are filled with themes that will be familiar and funny to school-aged kids. There's a fair amount of good-natured teasing of parents and other grown-ups.

Positive messages: Charming stories told from a kid's point of view reinforce the idea that we're all more alike than different.
Violence: One hilarious trip to the school nurse's office involves a bloody playground accident.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Yes to Running!

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about "Mom and the Radio," a story/song that describes hating the music your mom loves, then finding it stuck in your head. Can you think of a song that you can't stop singing? "Is Not Is Too" is about a brother and sister fighting -- over just about anything. Are these experiences familiar to you? What are some ways to avoid fighting with your sibling?

What's the story?

What's the story?

With folksy charm and warmth to spare, Bill Harley's newest CD is a two-volume collection of 10 live-in-concert recordings before an audience of enchanted kids. Equal parts singer-songwriter and storyteller, Harley delivers spoken-word riffs on subjects familiar to all school-aged kids while never forgetting to make delicious fun of their parents.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

YES TO RUNNING! doesn't bother with any of the conceits so often heard on contemporary children's CDs. There's no (apparently obligatory) reggae track, no hit-you-over-the-head message of wholesome values or self-esteem. With just an acoustic guitar, a voice, and a personality, Harley heads straight for the imagination and the funny bone, while spinning a darn good yarn.

It's hard to pick a highlight because the whole album is so good, but "Mom and the Radio" has to be one of the funniest send-ups of "hip" parents ever. "The Teachers' Lounge" exposes the deep, dark mysteries that lie behind that universally-forbidden door.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: August 12, 2008
Label: Round River Records
Genre: Children's Music
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

isaiahcalvin
parent of 5 year old
3
 
One of the best children's entertainers since Raffi
My children love Bill! His music is funny and light hearted!
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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
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