The Cowsills – Hair: A Celebration of Freedom, Identity, and Rebellion
The Cowsills’ rendition of Hair brings the iconic title track from the 1967 rock musical to a new generation, offering a jubilant and vibrant take on one of the most defining anthems of the counterculture era. Known for its exuberant energy, infectious chorus, and bold embrace of freedom, Hair captures the spirit of youthful rebellion and self-expression that was sweeping through the 1960s.
Originally part of the Broadway musical Hair, which tackled themes of love, liberation, and defiance against social norms, Hair was a groundbreaking production that transcended traditional theater. The song itself reflects the era’s growing movement for personal autonomy, focusing on the symbol of long hair as an expression of individuality and resistance. The Cowsills, with their harmonizing vocals and pop-friendly arrangements, bring a unique and lighthearted touch to the anthem, making it accessible while preserving the original’s revolutionary spirit.
At its core, Hair is a joyful celebration of the freedom to be oneself, embodied through the simple yet powerful image of long, flowing hair. As the characters of Claude and Berger sing of their pride in their hair—”Give me a head with hair”—they are not merely talking about a physical attribute, but rather using hair as a symbol of their defiance against societal conventions. The playful and satirical lyrics also serve to challenge the norms of the time, questioning authority and encouraging personal liberation. The song’s reference to religious figures like Jesus and the contrasting idea of a mother’s love further emphasize the rebellious, questioning spirit of the youth movement.
The Cowsills’ version of Hair carries with it a sense of optimism and joy, injecting a playful, almost carefree feeling into the song that was often at odds with the raw intensity of the original musical’s themes. Their version, released in 1969, captures a more commercial pop sensibility, but still manages to convey the underlying message of defiance and self-expression. The upbeat arrangement and vibrant instrumentation—complete with lively brass and percussion—help to elevate the song’s message, making it both a celebration of individuality and a call for change.
Hair, both in its musical and cultural context, is a testament to the power of music to unite people, encourage self-expression, and challenge the status quo. The Cowsills, through their rendition, carried this powerful message to the masses, while adding their own youthful energy and charm to an already iconic tune. It remains one of the most memorable songs of the late 60s, a musical landmark that continues to symbolize the spirit of revolution and the joy of embracing one’s true self.