Make Your Own Kind Of Music
Mama Cass Elliot
Harmonizing to the Beat of Your Own Drum
The song "Make Your Own Kind of Music," performed by Mama Cass Elliot, is an anthem of individuality and self-expression. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their uniqueness and to not be swayed by others' expectations or the pressure to conform. The opening lines suggest that there may be a prevailing notion of what is considered valuable or 'worth singing,' but the song's message is clear: one should not be deterred by the judgments of others.
The chorus, with its repeated exhortation to 'make your own kind of music,' serves as a metaphor for living life on one's own terms. It's a call to pursue personal passions and interests, regardless of whether they align with mainstream tastes or trends. The song acknowledges that following one's own path can be challenging and lonely ('the loneliest kind of lonely'), but it asserts that authenticity and personal fulfillment are worth the struggle.
The bridge of the song offers a moment of understanding and release, acknowledging that everyone has their journey to follow ('So if you cannot take my hand / And if you must be going / I will understand'). It's a recognition of the individual paths we all must take and a reassurance that it's okay to go your own way, even if it means doing so alone. Mama Cass Elliot's warm and powerful voice adds a layer of comfort and encouragement to the song's message, making it a timeless ode to the importance of being true to oneself.