My four-year-old daughter’s rendition of “YMCA” this morning, complete with enthusiastic arm movements, was a delightful start to the day. This iconic tune, popularized by the Village People, is a staple at gatherings, instantly filling dance floors with all ages. It got me thinking: how many people actually realize this seemingly upbeat anthem touches upon themes of homelessness and economic hardship, particularly for young individuals relocating to new cities?
Released in 1978 on the album Cruisin’, “YMCA” surprisingly never topped the US Billboard charts, outshone by Rod Stewart’s “Do You Think I’m Sexy?”. Yet, the YMCA song’s appeal has transcended generations. From my parents to my children, its catchy tune and dance are universally recognized.
The song’s narrative is quite straightforward: a young person, new in town and financially strapped, is advised to seek refuge at the YMCA for shelter, hygiene, and sustenance.
While the song subtly hints at homosexual undertones (unsurprising given the Village People’s persona – “You can hang out with all the boys”), often missed by dancers focused on mastering the arm choreography, it’s a theme we can explore another time. (Interestingly, Victor Willis, the lyricist, initially described the song as celebrating the YMCA’s role in providing sports for urban youth, later acknowledging the double meanings and the YMCA’s reputation as a social and cruising spot for young gay men, and a safe haven).
I would argue against the song’s implied notion that staying in a homeless shelter is inherently “fun.” While the McBurney Branch YMCA featured in the music video isn’t a shelter, many YMCAs do provide this crucial service. Depending on the shelter’s resources and environment, it might be preferable to being unsheltered, but hardly “fun.”
However, the YMCA song does carry powerful, positive messages. Consider the encouraging lines:
No man does it all by himself
I said young man, put your pride on the shelf
And just go there to the Y.M.C.A.
I’m sure they can help you today
This emphasis on seeking help and community support is undeniably valuable. The song also evokes empathy and understanding:
Young Man, I was once in your shoes
I said I was, down and out with the blues
I felt no man cared if I were alive
I felt the whole world was so jive
Finally, the song subtly instills hope, suggesting that even in hardship, dreams are still possible.
Ultimately, the YMCA song remains a fun, lighthearted, and incredibly popular track. It’s easy to categorize it as simple music trivia. But next time you hear it at an event, perhaps consider prompting a discussion about its underlying themes. It’s not about dampening the mood, but rather an opportunity to spark awareness about homelessness and the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable youth today, including LGBTQ+ individuals who disproportionately experience homelessness – echoing the very premise of this upbeat song from decades ago. Recognizing this depth doesn’t diminish the song’s enjoyment; it enriches it, adding layers beyond just four minutes of energetic dance.
