An Enduring Anthem of Self-Acceptance and Individuality
Let’s turn back the clock to a time when television variety shows were king, and pop music was often delivered by fresh-faced heartthrobs who charmed their way into millions of homes. In that era, few teen idols shone as brightly or as ubiquitously as Bobby Sherman. With his boy-next-door appeal, infectious smile, and earnest vocal delivery, he was a fixture on screens and airwaves, embodying the innocent spirit of late 60s and early 70s pop. Today, we’re revisiting a song that, while not his biggest chart hit, carried a surprisingly profound message for its time, one that continues to resonate with its timeless plea for authenticity: “Make Your Own Kind of Music.”
“Make Your Own Kind of Music” was released by Bobby Sherman in 1969. While many might associate the song more strongly with The Mamas & the Papas (who released their version in 1968), Bobby Sherman’s cover version was a significant single for him, appearing on his album “Here Comes Bobby” (also released in 1969). As a single, Sherman’s rendition made a respectable showing on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 26. This performance contributed to his string of successful singles that kept him a consistent presence on the pop charts during this period. The song, in both its original and cover forms, became something of an anthem, particularly appealing to younger audiences who were beginning to explore themes of self-expression and personal freedom. Its inclusion on “Here Comes Bobby,” a top 10 album, ensured its wide reach and cemented its place in his popular discography.
The story behind “Make Your Own Kind of Music” originates with the songwriting brilliance of Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, one of the most prolific and respected songwriting duos of the Brill Building era. They penned the song in 1968, and it was famously first recorded by The Mamas & the Papas. Mann and Weil were known for writing songs that captured the zeitgeist, often blending pop sensibilities with deeper, more reflective themes. For “Make Your Own Kind of Music,” their inspiration was a universal message of individuality and resilience. It was written at a time of significant cultural shifts, where counter-culture ideals and the pursuit of personal authenticity were gaining traction. When Bobby Sherman chose to record his version, he brought his own youthful sincerity to the lyrics. While The Mamas & the Papas offered a more harmonious, folk-pop take, Sherman’s version, with its slightly more direct and upbeat pop arrangement, presented the message with a fresh, accessible appeal to his immense teen fanbase. It underscored that even within mainstream pop, there was a yearning for songs that championed personal truth.
The meaning of “Make Your Own Kind of Music” is a powerful and enduring call for self-acceptance and the courage to live authentically, regardless of external pressures or expectations. The lyrics encourage listeners to follow their own internal rhythm and harmony, even if it means marching to the beat of a different drummer. Phrases like “Nobody can tell ya / There’s only one song worth singing” and “If you can’t get what you love / Then love what you got” beautifully encapsulate this philosophy. It’s a message of resilience in the face of judgment or misunderstanding, advocating for the importance of being true to oneself and finding joy in one’s unique path. It suggests that happiness comes not from conforming, but from celebrating one’s own distinctive voice and journey. For older listeners, this song evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia for a time when this message was becoming increasingly prevalent, and perhaps reminds us of our own journeys towards self-discovery and the wisdom gained from living life on our own terms. It’s a gentle yet firm reminder that true contentment comes from within.
Listening to “Make Your Own Kind of Music” by Bobby Sherman today, it brings forth a warm sense of nostalgia and a cheerful embrace of its timeless message. His vocal delivery, clear and earnest, perfectly conveys the song’s sincere intent. The arrangement is classic late 60s pop, with bright instrumentation and a driving rhythm that makes the message feel uplifting and encouraging. While some of his tracks might lean into a more overt teen-pop sweetness, this song stands out for its substantive lyrical content, proving that even heartthrobs could deliver meaningful anthems. It transports us back to a time of innocence yet also budding social consciousness, when music began to gently nudge listeners toward personal freedom. “Make Your Own Kind of Music” remains a wonderfully optimistic and empowering tune, a testament to Bobby Sherman’s ability to deliver a message that transcends fleeting trends and continues to inspire generations to find their own unique melody in life.