We fell in love with the indie band, Ida, in the early 1990s. The core members, Elizabeth Mitchell and Dan Littleton, pen incredibly heartfelt songs with amazing harmonies and creative musical accompaniments. Littleton and Mitchell are married and have a lovely daughter, Storey. Ida’s last album came out in 2008. We’re hoping they continue to tour and release as Ida.
In 1998, Mitchell put forth her first children’s album, You Are My Flower on her own label. She has continued releasing children’s albums on Smithsonian Folkways ever since. Most of Mitchell’s music consists of re-working traditional melodies, along with covers of some more recent songs. Mitchell is joined by Littleton, and now Storey, on the song arrangements and when on tour.
It is quite a task to find children’s music that doesn’t make an adult want to run from the room, as most of what you’ll hear is either insipid or cloying. But Mitchell has a talent for picking tunes that resonate with young and old. Couple her song choices with a gorgeously simple delivery, and Mitchell’s lovely voice, and it is a complete win.
Tip: Check out some other kid friendly tunes that we also recommend previously.
Our kids have been raised with Mitchell’s music. One of her concerts was Bluey’s first experience with live music when he was under 1 year old. We just can’t recommend her enough. Now if we could only get Mitchell, and Ida, to come back to Madison!