Kids music uplifts and soothes
Children need music, just as they need reading and art. These splendid new CDs will take the whole family on journeys to dance, sing, clap and relax peacefully. Prices and lengths vary.
“Land of Yangalele” with Papa Siama and Auntie Dallas; Siama Music.
Siama, prolific composer and guitarist from Africa who made popular soukous music, aka “the sound of happiness,” in the ‘70s and ‘80s, lends his more traditional sound for kids here. Jazz singer Dallas M. Johnson is his partner, and the pair hosts interactive African music programs for kids in New York.
Singing lyrics in English, Swahili, Lingala and Kikongo, the two provide listeners plenty to learn about vibrant African culture through their rich and exotic yet homey music. Siama’s deep vocals and Dallas’ strong female tones bounce off each other with harmony and love, and the lively sounding instruments run the gamut from acoustic guitar to the thumb piano, to the Jamaican rumba box, and even penny whistle and conga drums.
Audience participation is encouraged. The CD’s colorful liner notes includes a glossary, an Africa map, lyrics, guitar chords and even a fun quiz.
“Wild Is Everywhere” by Sara Lovell; Unbreakable Chord Music.
Lots of wild fantasy and imagination abound on Sara Lovell’s latest CD, with 14 songs about flying children, a rhinoceros under a bed, “Raspberry Pickleberry Wormnut Pie,” and the unfairness of grown-ups getting to stay up late. Lovell’s optimistic voice is clear and evolved. Her songs are incredibly joyful and full of curiosity, with the feeling that something great can happen at every moment.
With several different musical styles, from blues and funk, to disco and rock, “Wild Is Everywhere” helps kids remember how good life is.
“Lullapop Lullabies” from Razor & Tie.
Innovative record label Razor & Tie crafted “Lullapop Lullabies” with the millennial parent and child in mind, deciding to “lullify” and make instrumental chart-topping hits by Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Rihanna, Adele and more. Using the glockenspiel, harp and piano, they’ve transformed songs parents know into serene and soothing lullabies for tots so everyone can relax, and feel comfortable and familiar.
Hits include Ed Sheeran’s “Shape of You,” DNCE’s “Cake by the Ocean,” and Justin Bieber’s “Despacito” and 18 others. Lovely, enchanting and fun, “Lullapop Lullabies” makes a fantastic baby gift.
“The Starlighter” by Shawn Colvin; Amazon Originals.
Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Shawn Colvin adapted and updated songs from the classic children’s music book “Lullabies and Night Songs” by composer Alec Wilder and illustrated by Maurice Sendak. She wanted to give her record some dynamics and choose some upbeat tunes. The result feels warm and poignant and very classically childlike.
Songs include “Go Tell Aunt Rhody,” “The Cuckoo Is a Pretty Bird,” “Minnie and Winnie” and 11 others. “The Starlighter” is another perfect gift for new and expecting parents.