The Meaning Behind The Song: Cooties by Original Broadway Cast Of Hairspray
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooties | Original Broadway Cast Of Hairspray | Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman | Hairspray (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | August 8, 2002 | Soundtrack, Musicals, Broadway |
Amber sings this song in order to try and gain more votes for the Miss Teenage Hairspray competition and takes it as an opportunity to humiliate Tracy. The song is based on the scene in the original 1988 movie where Amber starts a rumor Tracy has roaches in her hair and celebrates her victory as pageant queen by dedicating a stomping dance to Tracy, “the roach”. At the end of the movie, Tracy takes ownership of the rumor by making fun of it when she shows up in a roach covered dress.
Personally, this song holds a special place in my heart as I was a huge fan of the Hairspray musical growing up. The infectious energy of this song always made me want to get up and dance along. It served as a reminder to not take oneself too seriously and to find joy in being unique and different.
The lyrics of “Cooties” bring to light the theme of bullying and the harmful effects it can have on individuals. Amber and her group of friends use the idea of “cooties” to ostracize Tracy and make her feel unwanted. This song portrays the insecurities and fears that can arise when facing such unwarranted criticism.
As a child, I often felt like an outsider and experienced my fair share of bullying. This song resonated with me because it highlighted the absurdity of judging someone based on superficial reasons. It encouraged me to embrace my quirks and celebrate my individuality, despite the negative opinions of others.
Furthermore, “Cooties” emphasizes the power of rumors and the lasting impact they can have on a person’s reputation. The exaggerated description of Tracy’s supposed cooties amplifies the harmful nature of gossip and how it can quickly spread and damage someone’s self-esteem.
The energetic and catchy melody of “Cooties” serves as an anthem for anyone who has ever felt marginalized or ridiculed. It invites listeners to let go of societal expectations and fully embrace their true selves. The repetition of the word “cooties” in the chorus creates a sense of unity among those who have experienced similar situations, as if to say, “You’re not alone; we’ve all been there.”
Moreover, the playful and lighthearted nature of the song brings a sense of humor to the theme of bullying. It encourages listeners to find strength through laughter and to not let the negativity of others define their worth.
The song also serves as a commentary on society’s obsession with conformity and the pressure to fit into specific standards of beauty. Amber’s disdain for Tracy’s uniqueness stems from her own insecurities and her desire to maintain the status quo. “Cooties” challenges these narrow standards and celebrates the diversity and individuality that should be embraced and celebrated.
In conclusion, “Cooties” by the Original Broadway Cast of Hairspray is not just a catchy tune, but a powerful reminder to celebrate our differences and stand up against bullying. Its energetic melody and playful lyrics create a sense of unity among those who have experienced marginalization. This song holds a special place in my heart, as it served as a source of inspiration and empowerment during my own experiences with bullying. Let us all learn from this song and strive to create a more inclusive and accepting society.
