The Meaning Behind The Song: Where Is My Man by Eartha Kitt
Eartha Kitt, an American singer, actress, and cabaret star, released the song “Where Is My Man” in 1983. The song was written by musician and songwriter Bruce Vilanch and composer Patrick Leonard. It was an instant hit and became a dance floor anthem, particularly in the gay community. But what is the meaning behind the song?
The Lyrics
The song talks about a woman who is looking for her man, but all she finds are cheap imitations. She is looking for love and companionship, but all she finds are shallow relationships. The lyrics of the song are straightforward and explicit, with lines like “I want a man who can take me then toss me around, I want a man who can hold me and tell me no lies.”
The Message
The song’s message is one of empowerment. It is a call for women to demand better treatment from men. It challenges the idea that women should be content with shallow relationships and sexual encounters. The song is revolutionary for the time it was released in, coming at the height of the AIDS epidemic and the increasing visibility of the LGBTQ+ community.
The Impact
“Where Is My Man” became a dance classic and a staple in the gay community. The song’s upbeat tempo and empowering message made it an instant hit. Eartha Kitt’s unique and sultry vocals added to the song’s popularity. The song has been covered by several artists, including an updated version by electronic duo Digitalism in 2011.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What inspired Eartha Kitt to record “Where Is My Man”?
Eartha Kitt was known for her sultry and mysterious persona, and “Where Is My Man” fit perfectly into her image. The song’s empowering message aligned with her feminist views.
2. Was “Where Is My Man” a feminist anthem?
Yes, the song’s message is a call for women to demand more from men and not settle for shallow relationships. It challenged the idea of women being content with being sexual objects.
3. Why was “Where Is My Man” so popular in the gay community?
The song’s upbeat tempo and empowering message resonated with the LGBTQ+ community, who faced discrimination and persecution at the time. The song also had a hidden message of acceptance and love, appealing to the community’s desire for inclusion.
4. Who wrote “Where Is My Man”?
Bruce Vilanch and Patrick Leonard wrote “Where Is My Man.” Vilanch is a comedian and comedy writer, who has worked on several television shows, including “Hollywood Squares.” Leonard is a composer and musician, who has worked with several artists, including Madonna.
5. Was “Where Is My Man” Eartha Kitt’s biggest hit?
No, “Where Is My Man” was not Eartha Kitt’s biggest hit. She is best known for her rendition of “Santa Baby,” which has become a Christmas classic.
6. Did any other artists cover “Where Is My Man”?
Yes, several artists have covered “Where Is My Man,” including Digitalism, who released an updated version of the song in 2011.
7. Was “Where Is My Man” nominated for any awards?
No, “Where Is My Man” was not nominated for any awards.
8. What impact did “Where Is My Man” have on the music industry?
“Where Is My Man” was a dance floor anthem and a call for empowerment. It challenged the status quo and paved the way for future artists to use music as a means of social commentary.
9. What other songs by Eartha Kitt should I listen to?
Aside from “Santa Baby,” Eartha Kitt has several other hit songs, including “C’est Si Bon” and “I Want to Be Evil.”
10. Was Eartha Kitt involved in the LGBTQ+ community?
Eartha Kitt was an ally of the LGBTQ+ community and performed at several LGBTQ+ events throughout her career.
11. Is “Where Is My Man” an overtly sexual song?
Yes, the song’s lyrics are explicit and talk about sexual encounters. However, the song’s message is one of empowerment and encourages women to demand better treatment from men.
12. Does “Where Is My Man” have a music video?
Yes, “Where Is My Man” has a music video that features Eartha Kitt on stage and in various scenes, interspersed with clips of men dancing. The video is a testament to the song’s popularity and enduring legacy.
