Last night, I posted a video from the 1974 children’s special, Free To Be … You and Me.
For those of us who saw it, we’ll never forget it. It was so 1970’s. Marlo Thomas wanted to show diversity and how kids could get along. She also wanted to break gender stereotypes. Some of the songs were ok. Others are dated. There are some which just make you scratch your head. Since last night, I can’t get some of the songs out of my head, which is not a good thing. Anyway, take a look at some of the videos and you’ll probably get a good laugh.
First the open of the show, “Free to Be … You and Me”. The theme is sung by the New Seekers.
“When We Grow Up” sung by Roberta Flack and a young Michael Jackson. Compare how he looked then to now. Big difference.
“Atalanta” narrated by Marlo Thomas and Alan Alda. This is about a girl who chooses what she wants to do instead of getting married.
“William’s Doll” sung by Alan Alda about a boy who wants to play with a doll. This was probably the most unpopular segment and didn’t go over well with many dads. It didn’t go over well with me and I was in 3rd grade when I saw this.
“Three Wishes” about the endless possibilities of growth and life.
And the ending with credits. Marlo Thomas and Mel Brooks are the voices of the babies. There were more segments with the babies, but I don’t feel like posting them now.
I hope it brings back memories for you.
