It’s funny how a simple phrase, “the kids,” can conjure up so many different images, especially when you tack on a year like 2021. Suddenly, it’s not just about childhood innocence; it’s about a specific moment in time, a cultural snapshot. And in 2021, “the kids” showed up in a few fascinating ways.
For music lovers, the name “the kids” might ring a bell with an explicit album released in October 2021 by Bam Alexander. It’s a reminder that even in the realm of music, the raw energy and sometimes unfiltered expression associated with youth can find its voice. Then there’s Ashleigh McAllister, who also has an album titled “if you were me” that dropped in 2024, but the name “the kids” itself has been associated with musical endeavors, even going back to Johnny Depp’s early days in a band by that name before his acting career took off. It’s a name that carries a certain rebellious or foundational spirit in the music world.
But “the kids” in 2021 also took center stage in a very different, very public arena: television. “The Kids Tonight Show” premiered, offering a family-friendly, TV-G rated take on the classic late-night talk show format. Imagine a version where the hosts are youngsters, bringing their own brand of humor and curiosity to interviews. Stars like Mykal-Michelle Harris, Young Dylan, and Recker Eans helmed this show, proving that kids can indeed lead the conversation, bringing in guests from Kristen Bell to Tony Hawk. It’s a testament to the idea that youthful perspectives are valuable and entertaining.
Beyond the talk show, the concept of “the kids” as a subject of artistic exploration continued. At the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival, a film simply titled “The Kids” by director Eddie Martin was featured. This wasn't just a nostalgic look back; it was a contemporary piece focusing on the real lives of street kids, drawing parallels to earlier, more controversial films about adolescent life. It highlighted how the experiences of young people, particularly those on the fringes, remain a potent and important subject for storytelling, exploring the lasting impact of their formative years.
And then there’s the literary world. In November 2021, Hannah Lowe’s poetry collection, also titled “The Kids,” was shortlisted for the Costa Book Award. This signifies that the themes and experiences of childhood and adolescence are not just fodder for film or music, but are deeply resonant in poetry, offering a more introspective and nuanced exploration of what it means to be young, or to remember being young.
So, when we talk about “the kids” in 2021, it’s a multifaceted conversation. It’s about the music they create, the shows they host, the stories they inspire, and the art they produce. It’s a reminder that youth, in all its forms, is a powerful force, constantly shaping and reflecting the world around us.
