Chicken Fat (song)

Chicken Fat (Song) is a song composed by Meredith Willson in 1961, best known for its association with the Physical Fitness campaigns of the early 1960s in the United States. The song was commissioned by President John F. Kennedy's Council on Physical Fitness as a means to motivate school children to exercise. Often referred to as "The Youth Fitness Song," it was distributed to schools across the nation and played during physical education classes to accompany exercise routines.

Background

In the early 1960s, concerns over the physical fitness of American youth were heightened by studies indicating that American children were less fit than their European counterparts. In response, President Kennedy made physical fitness a national priority. The President's Council on Physical Fitness, seeking an engaging way to encourage exercise among the nation's youth, commissioned Meredith Willson, the composer behind the hit musical The Music Man, to create a song that would inspire enthusiasm for physical activity.

Composition and Lyrics

"Chicken Fat" is characterized by its upbeat tempo and motivational lyrics, which call on listeners to engage in various physical exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, and marching in place. The song's refrain, "Go, you chicken fat, go away! Go, you chicken fat, go!", serves as a catchy and humorous rallying cry for shedding excess weight and building a healthier body.

The song was recorded by actor and singer Robert Preston, who had gained fame for his role in "The Music Man." Preston's dynamic and commanding vocal performance added to the song's appeal, making it memorable among the generations of school children who exercised to its tune.

Distribution and Impact

"Chicken Fat" was distributed to schools across the United States in the form of vinyl records and later, audio cassettes. It became a staple of physical education classes during the 1960s and 1970s, with many adults today recalling the song with a mix of nostalgia and amusement. The song's widespread use in schools is credited with helping to raise awareness about the importance of physical fitness among American youth.

Despite its initial popularity, "Chicken Fat" eventually faded from use in physical education programs as newer fitness initiatives and resources became available. However, the song experienced a resurgence in interest in the 21st century, thanks in part to its inclusion in a commercial for the Apple iPhone in 2014, introducing it to a new generation.

Legacy

"Chicken Fat" remains a cultural artifact of the 1960s, reflecting the era's growing awareness of health and fitness. Its humorous approach to exercise and memorable melody have ensured its place in the annals of American pop culture. The song also serves as a reminder of the innovative methods employed by the Kennedy administration to address national concerns and engage the public in health initiatives.