The Wiggles and the Controversial 'Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport': Racial Sensitivities and Future Performances
In recent years, The Wiggles, a popular children's music group from Australia, has faced scrutiny over their rendition of the song lsquo;Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sportrsquo;. Originally written and performed by Rolf Harris, this song has been re-recorded without the controversial verse due to racist content that it contains. This article explores the reasons behind the changes and the ongoing debates surrounding the performance of this song in modern times.
Introduction to Racial Sensitivities in Children's Music
The issue of lsquo;Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sportrsquo; highlights the increasing awareness and sensitivity to racial issues in children's music. As The Wiggles are a global children's entertainment franchise, they have to navigate these sensitivities carefully to maintain their image and appeal. This article aims to provide insights into the current state of the song and the potential future changes.
Why The Wiggles Should Record 'Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport' Without Rolf Harris
The original song, lsquo;Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sportrsquo;, included a verse with racial slurs that were later removed or altered in subsequent recordings. Rolf Harris himself acknowledged the offensive nature of the lyrics and expressed regret for their inclusion. This indicates that the racist content was intentional and not an accident. Given the recent controversy surrounding Harris and his arrest due to allegations of sexual misconduct involving children, it seems logical for The Wiggles to distance themselves from the song to avoid association with outdated and offensive content.
Controversial Verse and Its Removal
The controversial verse that was removed from the song contained derogatory language referring to Aboriginal Australians. This verse was removed from performances and recordings, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards sensitivity and respect for minority groups. The change was necessary not only to address the offensive content but also to ensure that the song remains appropriate for today's audiences, particularly young children who are more aware of social issues.
Commercial and Sensitivity Factors Driving the Rescoring
Many argue that the decision to re-record the song without the controversial verse is driven by both commercial and ethical considerations. If The Wiggles can make money from a re-scored version of the song, they are likely to do so. Additionally, maintaining a clean and respectful image is crucial for a children's entertainment franchise. Anthony Field, one of the founding members of The Wiggles, has significant control over the franchise, and his decision to remove the offensive verse suggests a commitment to a positive message for children.
The Impact on The Wiggles Franchise
It is unlikely that the Australian branch of The Wiggles would re-record the song, given the high awareness of Rolf Harris's past. This suggests that any future recordings of the song would likely come from other international branches or individual members. The decision ultimately depends on the level of control Anthony Field has over the franchises. His status as a distant cousin of the writer also raises questions about personal and professional relationships influencing the decision.
Conclusion
The re-recording of lsquo;Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sportrsquo; without the controversial verse by The Wiggles is a reflection of the growing sensitivity to racial issues in children's music. This decision, while potentially controversial, aims to maintain a positive and inclusive image for a global children's entertainment brand. As the world continues to evolve, so too will the standards for children's music, making the decision to re-record an important milestone in the history of the song.