The Meaning Behind The Song: T.V. Is the Thing This Year by Dinah Washington
As an avid fan of music, I often find myself drawn to songs that have a deep meaning or a personal connection. One such song that has always captured my attention is “T.V. Is the Thing This Year” by Dinah Washington. Released in 1952, this song brings to light the shift in popular culture from radio to television and reflects the excitement and fascination surrounding this emerging medium.
| Title | T.V. Is the Thing This Year |
|---|---|
| Artist | Dinah Washington |
| Writer/Composer | Unknown |
| Album | The Complete Dinah Washington on Mercury, Vol. 3 (1952-1954) (1988) |
| Release Date | 1952 |
| Genre | Jazz, Blues |
| Duration | 2:40 |
| Producer | Unknown |
The song opens with a playful invitation: “If you want to have fun, come home with me. You can stay all night and play with my TV.” These lyrics instantly establish the theme of the song, emphasizing the newfound excitement surrounding television. Dinah Washington’s soulful voice adds depth and emotion to the lyrics, making the listener feel a connection to the song.
The chorus repeats the catchy phrase, “TV is the thing this year,” emphasizing the shift in popularity from radio to television. The lyrics suggest that radio, once considered great, is now out of date compared to the visual and interactive nature of television. It’s fascinating to think about how this song captured the changing times and the impact television had on society.
As the song progresses, Dinah Washington recounts a personal experience. She shares how her TV broke while she was watching a program, causing her to panic. She immediately calls someone to fix it, emphasizing the importance of television in her life. The lyrics create a sense of urgency and excitement, as she eagerly waits for her “daddy” to arrive and restore her TV.
I personally feel a strong connection to this song because it reminds me of my own childhood. Growing up, television was a significant part of my life. I have fond memories of gathering together with my family to watch our favorite shows and movies. It was a time when television brought people together and provided a sense of entertainment and togetherness.
The lyrics of “T.V. Is the Thing This Year” take listeners on a journey through various TV channels. Dinah Washington’s joy and enthusiasm are palpable as she describes each channel and the thrill it brings her. It’s as if we are experiencing the magic of television through her eyes. The lyrics highlight the power of television to captivate and entertain, creating a sense of wonder and excitement.
The song concludes with the line, “Baby, my set will need fixing just about this time every night!” This line suggests that television has become a staple in her life, something she cannot live without. It further emphasizes the significance of television in the 1950s and its influence on popular culture.
Overall, “T.V. Is the Thing This Year” by Dinah Washington is a timeless song that captures the spirit of a changing era. It beautifully reflects the transition from radio to television and the excitement that surrounded this new medium. It reminds us of the role television played in bringing people together and providing a source of entertainment and joy. As I listen to this song, I can’t help but feel nostalgic for a time when television was the center of attention and the thing to have.
So, the next time you turn on your TV, take a moment to appreciate the history behind it, the meaning it holds, and the way it has shaped our lives. And as Dinah Washington sings, remember that “TV is the thing this year.”
