Music Review: "When I Look at You" (CD single)
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that they don't have to worry about
this Miley movie song as it's perfectly safe for nearly any
age. And that's good news considering the single is probably
going to be heard constantly while the movie is in theaters.
The meaning of the sentimental lyrics doesn't necessarily
relate to a romantic relationship, so even younger kids can
"get" the message. The music video features mostly scenes from
the movie, with a few romantic shots, but nothing that kids
wouldn't see on primetime TV.
- Families can talk about Miley's movie, The Last Song. The film is rated PG, but do you think it's appropriate for kids as well as teens? Does Miley Cyrus automatically make an album, movie, or TV show OK for kids? Can a movie soundtrack be fine for all ages, even though the movie might not be?
- What do you think about the song's message? Can depending on someone you love too much be dangerous? What are some ground rules for a healthy relationship? Are there things you shouldn't do even if you trust a boy or girlfriend completely?
- Talk about how music is used to promote movies. Do you think Miley's success as a pop star is used here to market the movie and make her fans interested in the movie? Have you ever wanted to see a movie just because of the music that was used to promote it?
Of course if there's going to be a movie starring Miley Cyrus, it's no surprise that she's going to be the one performing the lead song off of the film's soundtrack. "WHEN I LOOK AT YOU" is a single that not only appears on the soundtrack to The Last Song, but also on Cyrus' EP The Time of Our Lives. To promote the Spanish version of the film, the track has also been recorded as a duet between Cyrus and David Bisbal, while in the States the song has floated around the pop charts for several months since its release.
If you're a sucker for a power ballad, you're in luck! " When I Look at You" has all the makings of the emotionally epic single, including the slow build-up, powerful vocals, and sentimental lyrics. Cyrus belts out more mature vocals with a less tweeny-sound, and is a force when ripping through the chorus, never once letting things get too sweet or whiney. Combine that with the perfectly-matched movie snippets from the music video, and this song's appeal should stretch beyond just those given to over-the-top romantic tunes.
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