Armando Perez became the superstar known as Pitbull thanks to his irresistible rhythms and to his musical ties to Jennifer López, Enrique Iglesias, and Shakira. I enjoy his music, but ever since my kids started learning certain words, I change the radio station when he comes on!
I respect the Cuban American's musical genius and Pitbull's business skills as head of his empire. His vision for continually giving people what they want is admirable, and it's almost heroic how he's been successful at introducing bilingualism into the American and pop culture psyche. That said, I don't think Pitbull's music is appropriate for children. And, ladies, that is exactly what is happening. From Michelle Obama to Nickelodeon, they want our children to pay attention to Pitbull.
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I made the decision several years ago when a teacher sent home a note that my son had been singing "Oye mamita, estás enterita y tienes tremendo c.." during recess. You know how that line of the song goes, right? The Latino kids in the class translated the lyrics to those who did not understand, and as you can imagine they couldn't stop laughing.
Ever since then I've been more or less successful at keeping sexually explicit material at bay. Not all of Pitbull's songs are that sexually charged. However, his videos tend to be. Michelle Obama surprised me last week when she appeared on Telemundo and Univision dancing "Sube las Manos Pa'rriba" as part of the Let's Move campaign to combat childhood obesity.
I have a problem with this. The song is part of Pepsi's campaign. Why is the White House aiding in the association of sugary carbonated drinks in a campaign against obesity? It's strange. I also think the lyrics are a little overboard. Sorry, Pitbull: Your songs are great for parties, not for children.
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And that's not all. Nickelodeon announced today that Pitbull will appear in the next Kid's Choice Awards. My kids have already scheduled the recording!
Is Pitbull kid material? I will never forget when my kids saw Pitbull grinding with Jennifer Lopez several years ago.
I think he should stick to his market. For Saturday's awards, it'd be better if they kept the lineup to younger, less R-rated stars. I realize Pitbull and Nickelodeon are in the business of making money and kids go out an buy music. However, I know I'm not alone when I say parents agree that they should at least adapt their music for our children.
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