You've Got To Be Carefully Taught, 1949 Rodgers and Hammerstein

Bash This Recording
#1

“You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught” is a show tune from the 1949 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical South Pacific.

South Pacific received scrutiny for its commentary regarding relationships between different races and ethnic groups. In particular, “You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught” was subject to widespread criticism, judged by some to be too controversial or downright inappropriate for the musical stage. Sung by the character Lieutenant Cable, the song is preceded by a line saying racism is “not born in you! It happens after you’re born…”

This version is from James Taylor’s latest album American Standards.

2 Likes
#2

I have your vocal only in right little ear. I had to turn it way down to appreciate this. Your voice has really come back from covid. Truly a beautiful song. Excellent

#3

Rene,
I don’t think I am familiar with the original song. Though you version has very nice singing and guitar playing!

#4

Wow what a stirring performance, so good. And a very pertinent underlying message relating to the information our kids are subjected to, and how it molds their very world view…
First and foremost children just need to be taught morality. If they can grasp that concept, everything else will be just fine.

1 Like
#5

I have no memory of the song from South Pacific, Rene, but I like your rendition a lot. That said, Paul is right about the panning of the vocals. I’ll bet if I copied the song and played it with a left pan of itself it would sound pretty good.

#6

Hi Paul,
Thanks for the great feedback.
This is another recording from my older set-up, which has the one side only sound.
Thanks for the vocal compliment!
Stay well, my friend!!!
With love and respect,
Rene