Discover the enchanting melodies that resonate in the hearts of kids! Dive into a world of musical marvels as I present to you a curious collection of songs, carefully curated from the vibrant minds of my daughter’s 11-year-old friends. Brace yourself for an auditory adventure like no other, where every beat and lyric carries the essence of youthful spirit and uninhibited imagination.
I firmly believe that music plays a significant role in shaping our emotions and identities. With the evolution of technology, children have access to a wide range of songs and artists. As a parent, I think it’s crucial to be involved in understanding the music our kids listen to. By showing interest in their musical preferences, we can build a healthy and knowledgeable relationship with music. This relationship promotes values, encourages creativity, and strengthens our bond with our children.
Now that I am a dad to an amazing girl, I am interested in knowing which sounds attract her. I want to find out if she understands what she is listening to, both in terms of the instruments and the lyrics. I am also curious to know her opinion about the artists she is listening to. Although most of the children I have talked to do not know the artists they listen to in detail, they already have their well-defined preferences.
Allow me to introduce you to my daughter, Luísa, an incredible 11-year-old with an unwavering passion for music and a captivating attitude. Her playlist is a treasure trove of mesmerizing sounds, showcasing the talents of legendary artists like the iconic Michael Jackson and the sensational Billie Eilish. Luísa has an uncanny ability to appreciate the timeless melodies and magnetic charisma found in Michael Jackson’s hits such as “Billie Jean” and “Thriller.” Additionally, she’s captivated by the enchanting and thought-provoking tunes of Billie Eilish, with songs like “Bad Guy” and “Ocean Eyes” holding a special place in her heart.
Music has a profound impact on mood, emotions, and behavior. It influences how children perceive the world around them and shape their identity. As a parent, it is crucial to familiarize myself with my daughter’s favorite songs, understand their emotional journey, and engage in meaningful conversations about the messages she’s absorbing.
Meet Stella, an 11-year-old Bulgarian girl with a taste for music and attitude. Among her favorite songs are “Why Do You Only Call Me When You’re High?” and “Do I Wanna Know?” performed by the incredible British band Arctic Monkeys.
The music industry today is a mixed bag, ranging from empowering and positive messages to explicit and questionable content. I take an active role in evaluating the songs my child gravitates towards. Engaging in discussions about lyrics and overall content helps me discern between positive influences and those that may promote unhealthy behaviors.
Introducing Bernardo, an 11-year-old Portuguese boy with a captivating taste in music. One of his favorite songs is ‘Never Be Alone,’ performed by Shadrow. Bernardo is a huge fan of the artist. Additionally, he has a soft spot for energetic pop songs like ‘Dance Monkey’ by Tones and I.
Music inspires creativity, allowing children to explore their thoughts and feelings through self-expression. I believe that engaging with my daughter’s musical choices opens up opportunities for shared experiences, fostering creativity and bonding. Encouraging her to discuss her favorite songs in terms of lyrics, melody, and emotional impact reinforces the importance of self-expression and helps her find her own creative voice.
Elyse, an 11-year-old Angolan girl with a bold and energetic taste in music. One of her favorite songs is ‘Cirice,’ performed by the powerful heavy metal band Ghost. Elyse loves the intense sound and theatrical performances of the band. Additionally, she is captivated by high-energy and attitude-filled songs like ‘Rats,’ also by Ghost. Elyse showcases a diverse musical taste and isn’t afraid to explore different styles, appreciating the blend of melody and intensity that music offers.
Music is a window into different cultures and can spark conversations about diversity, social justice, and global issues. As a parent, I guide my child to explore music from various genres and cultures, fostering an appreciation for diversity and empathy. These discussions bridge generational gaps and create a learning dynamic that extends beyond the boundaries of music.
Maria, a 10-year-old Portuguese girl with a joyful taste in music. One of her favorite songs is ‘Palhaça,’ performed by the talented and fun-loving artist Naiara Azevedo. Maria loves to dance and sing along to this contagious song, which brings her a sense of fun and excitement. Additionally, Maria is also interested in songs like ‘Planeta’ by Bispo and Bárbara Tinoco.
Just like any other aspect of parenting, establishing boundaries is crucial. While we should encourage independence and self-exploration, it’s equally important to discuss limitations based on age-appropriate content. Open and honest communication establishes trust, enabling me to express concerns and expectations while still respecting my daughter’s musical preferences.
Introducing Miguel, an 11-year-old Portuguese boy with a musical taste defined by the ‘grunge’ style. One of his favorite songs is ‘Sky is a Neighborhood,’ performed by the iconic alternative rock band Foo Fighters. Miguel appreciates the intensity and energy of grunge music and admires the skill of vocalist Dave Grohl in conveying emotions through music.
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, music has become an influential component of our children’s lives. By actively engaging with their musical choices, I believe parents can play a vital role in shaping their understanding and appreciation of music, while also fostering values and creativity. Through communication, analysis, and setting boundaries, parents can make music an enriching and transformative experience that strengthens their bond with their children.
Say “hi” to Maria Luiza, a 10-year-old Brazilian girl with a musical taste filled with rhythms and colors. Among her favorite songs is ‘O Sol e a Lua,’ performed by the talented Brazilian singer Jorge Vercillo. Maria Luiza is enchanted by the smooth melody and poetic lyrics of this song, which ignite her imagination and bring a sense of calm. Additionally, she also appreciates the song ‘Amarelo Azul e Branco,’ a hit in the samba and partido alto genre, a traditional Brazilian musical style. Maria Luiza loves the contagious energy of this genre, with its lively beats and lyrics full of joy. Her musical taste reflects the diversity and richness of Brazilian music, bringing a mix of sounds that make her dance and feel connected to the culture of her country.
The songs that our children listen to today become a part of their memories and shape their future. Therefore, in my opinion, parental involvement in this subject matter is not just important but essential. I embrace my daughter’s musical journey and embark on an adventure that nurtures her growth, self-expression, and values.
Meet Ida, an 11-year-old German girl with a musical taste full of personality. Among her favorite songs is ‘She Knows,’ performed by Ne-Yo and Juicy J. Ida also enjoys other vibrant pop songs by singer and rapper Melanie Martinez, such as ‘Tag, You’re It.’ Her musical taste showcases a blend of pop, indie, and elements of alternative music, reflecting her creative and diverse personality.
Don’t forget to check out the favorite songs of the sisters Martinha and Maria João below. These two young music enthusiasts have handpicked their absolute favorites, and trust me, you don’t want to miss out on their unique and delightful choices. So make sure to scroll down and uncover the musical treasures that have captured their hearts.
Introducing Martinha, a 10-year-old Portuguese girl with an infectious musical taste. Among her favorite songs is ‘Vem Cá,’ performed by the talented Portuguese singer Pelé Wolflows. Martinha loves the lively rhythm and danceable beats of this song, which make her want to move to its sound. Additionally, she also appreciates the music of Portuguese singer Barbara Tinoco, whose sweet songs and enchanting melodies capture her heart. Martinha’s passion for music reflects her joy for life and vibrant spirit. She loves discovering new artists and musical styles, always staying excited about the latest music trends in Portugal.
We finish with Maria João, a 15-year-old Portuguese girl with diverse and passionate tastes in music. She is a loyal fan of the iconic Portuguese band Xutos e Pontapés, known for their energetic rock anthems and captivating lyrics. Maria João also appreciates the inspiring and melodic sound of the British band Coldplay. With an eclectic taste in music, Maria João celebrates Portuguese and international music, immersing herself in different styles and exploring the emotional depth that music can bring.
As we approach the end of this musical journey, I want to sincerely thank all the readers who have joined me in this delightful exploration. Your curiosity and open-mindedness have made this experience even more rewarding. Take a moment to reflect on the songs that shaped your memories and made you smile as a child, and compare them to the tunes that resonate with today’s younger generation. Witnessing how music evolves and captures the essence of each era is truly fascinating.
If you have any thoughts, suggestions, or comments to share, please don’t hesitate to do so. Feel free to leave your own favorite childhood songs or recommendations for the young ones. Thank you once again for being a part of this amazing musical adventure!
André Cardoso