Tom Chapin has made himself the darling of the homeschool crowd with his song
Not on the Test. I'm not as crazy in love with this song as some of my friends seem to be, but I think it's worth a listen. So I'm putting in a link to his
website, where the song is sitting, waiting to be heard. (The page with the song will follow the introductory photo page after a few seconds, all on its own.) And I'll add that, in my opinion, this is far from his best work.
Overall, our family LOVES his music. Could there be any higher praise than the fact that just about the only music on Nabil's iPod comes from one of his albums? He comes out to California every year to do a benefit for People of Note, a local organization dedicated to training volunteers to provide music education in public schools. Even though we've basically memorized all his jokes and patter, we go every year, sing along at the top of our voices, and have a great time. I like the way he donates his time for this cause that he believes in, I love the way he engages the audience during his performances, and I always enjoy the music he plays. Of course I don't know him personally, but he certainly gives the impression of being a genuinely nice, down-to-earth person. Not bad for someone who's won three Grammies.
So don't stop with this song -- click on "Listen" (right between "Requests" and "Cool Stuff" on the top of the page).
This Pretty Planet and
Together Tomorrow are two of my favorites, and yes, that's Judy Collins singing along. Simple and beautiful, these are songs that children and parents can sing together with pleasure.
Labels: Tom Chapin
