The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “girlhood” as the “the state or period of being a girl” – But what does that even mean? By that definition, the state or period of being a girl appears to be something abstract and fluid, a concept undefined by anything particular or distinguishable, let alone able to create community. Ask any woman however, girlhood is something intimate, recognizable, and most importantly, something shared. While this era of exploration and discovery holds a myriad of diverse encounters, it is one of connection – through the familiar warmth of feelings. Unsaid yet completely understood. Here are three songs that feel like girlhood!
1. Perfect Day – Hoku
Every girl has experienced the butterflies of a first day. The mix of nerves and enthusiasm that tend to add some jitters to your morning. Whether it is school, work, or any other new beginning, first days are always a bit daunting, no matter how exciting they may be. So, there is nothing like Hoku’s bouncy, upbeat rhythm to put a little pep in your step! We all want to believe that “On this perfect day/Nothing’s standing in [our] way” and there’s no better way to manifest that than by living in a classic 2000s romcom. Popularized by the film, “Legally Blonde,” Perfect Day romanticizes the early morning like the sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and your toast is just the right amount of toasty. It has a way of transporting you into the body of the movie’s lead, Elle Woods, with her go-getter attitude and perfectly put-together disposition. The sparkle encapsulated in this song captures each girl’s hopes of completely conquering the day ahead.
2. Material Girl – Madonna
In her 1984 hit Material Girl Madonna brings the energy of just totally letting loose. Whether alone in her bedroom or jamming in the car with friends, every girl knows the insatiable desire to completely sing and dance her heart out. As a “material girl” who is “living in a material world,” Madonna gives you the permission to expect things from the world rather than allow it to expect things from you. She implores you to be confidently bold, to take charge! There is something so invigorating about the tune’s electric beat and pops of R&B that practically force your feet to tap and send your hand flying towards an impromptu microphone. The quick, lively tempo fuels the adrenaline and vivacity to make you feel like the star in your very own show – to groove and squeal like no one’s watching. Material Girl offers that refreshing release of being wholly unrestrained, authentic, and unapologetically you.
3. Chiquitita – ABBA
Girlhood’s most indispensable quality is that it’s something shared – a web that connects women and girls across backgrounds, cultures, and generations. ABBA’s Chiquitita perfectly represents the overflowing love and understanding that exists in the sisterly solidarity between women. Through its soft, nostalgic melody and lyrics like “I’m a shoulder you can cry on/Your best friend, I’m the one you must rely on”, this song feels like being wrapped in the warmest hug when you need it most. Appearing in the film, “Mamma Mia,” Chiquitita is most associated with the scene in which Donna is consoled and uplifted by her girlfriends, and that’s what it’s all about. Women supporting women, being there for one another. Further embodied in the line “you and I cry,” it depicts the bittersweet emotion of sharing pain and struggle. ABBA expresses the healing that comes with being embraced in your vulnerability, displaying the bond between girls that says ‘I see you and I’m here for you.’
