Aristogatas - Everybody Wants To Be a Cat

“Everybody Wants To Be a Cat” from Disney’s “The Aristocats” is a lively and jazzy anthem celebrating the carefree and cool lifestyle of cats. The song, performed by the character Scat Cat and his band, is a tribute to the allure of jazz music and the freedom it represents. The lyrics emphasize that cats, with their natural rhythm and effortless style, embody the essence of jazz, making them the epitome of coolness.

The song contrasts the vibrant, improvisational nature of jazz with the more rigid and outdated forms of music, symbolized by the “square with a horn.” This metaphor highlights the tension between traditional and modern, suggesting that the free-spirited, innovative approach of jazz (and by extension, the cats) is far superior. The repeated refrain that “everybody wants to be a cat” underscores the universal appeal of this liberated, expressive way of life.

Culturally, the song taps into the 1960s jazz scene, a time when jazz was not just a genre but a lifestyle and a form of rebellion against the conventional. The playful language and rhythmic structure of the lyrics mirror the improvisational nature of jazz, inviting listeners to embrace spontaneity and creativity. The imagery of cats congregating and making music together in the alleys underlines the communal and inclusive spirit of jazz, where everyone is welcome to join in and express themselves.

Ultimately, “Everybody Wants To Be a Cat” is more than just a fun, catchy tune; it’s a celebration of individuality, creativity, and the joy of living life on your own terms. It encourages listeners to break free from societal norms and embrace their inner “cat,” finding their own rhythm and style in the process.