The Mamas & The Papas – Free Advice

About the song

“Free Advice” by The Mamas & The Papas is a lesser-known gem in the group’s expansive catalog, offering a glimpse into the musical landscape of the 1960s, a decade brimming with change and exploration. Released as part of their 1966 album “If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears,” the track captures the unique blend of folk rock and pop harmony that made The Mamas & The Papas a defining force in the music scene of the time. Although the song didn’t achieve the same level of widespread commercial success as some of their bigger hits like “California Dreamin'” or “Monday, Monday,” it remains a noteworthy part of their musical legacy.

In terms of release date, “Free Advice” first appeared on “If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears”, which was The Mamas & The Papas’ debut album. This album was groundbreaking in its synthesis of vocal harmonies and socially conscious lyrics, which would go on to define much of the group’s sound. “Free Advice” fits neatly into this framework, combining light-heartedness with a bit of sarcastic social commentary. Its breezy melody, delivered with John Phillips’ light-hearted songwriting and the distinctive vocal blend of Cass Elliot, Denny Doherty, and Michelle Phillips, captures the essence of 1960s folk pop.

Lyrically, “Free Advice” is an exploration of unsolicited, often unwanted, opinions that people receive from others, particularly those who think they know best. The song is playful yet pointed in its critique of advice-givers, with the lyrics almost sarcastically stating, “Free advice is cheap, it’s free.” There’s an underlying message about the human tendency to offer advice without understanding or empathy, especially in times of personal crisis. The song’s breezy melody contrasts with the slightly cynical tone of the lyrics, creating an interesting juxtaposition between the carefree sound and the more serious subtext.

The social impact of “Free Advice” is rooted in the cultural climate of the 1960s. During this period, the world was experiencing seismic shifts in social, political, and cultural norms, particularly regarding issues of personal freedom, civil rights, and the growing counterculture movement. While the song itself doesn’t delve deeply into any specific political message, it captures the essence of a time when questioning authority and challenging conventional wisdom became the norms. The 1960s were a time when young people, in particular, were beginning to reject the “old ways” of thinking, and “Free Advice” reflects that spirit by mocking the idea of unsolicited counsel. In a society becoming more open to new ideas and perspectives, the song underscores the frustration many felt with older generations who offered guidance without understanding the complexities of youth experience.

Musically, the track is a delightful example of The Mamas & The Papas’ trademark vocal harmonies and light, jazzy instrumental arrangements. The group’s ability to blend folk, pop, and light rock elements with lush vocal arrangements was one of the reasons they became so popular. “Free Advice” has a playful, upbeat tempo, and while the song’s lyrics poke fun at those who give unwanted counsel, the infectious melody keeps things light, almost making the criticism sound like a playful jest. The track serves as a nice contrast to the more serious, introspective songs on the album, such as “California Dreamin’,” adding depth to the overall musical experience.

The lasting influence of “Free Advice” can be seen in the way it fits into the larger picture of 1960s pop and folk music. As part of the album “If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears,” it contributed to the genre’s fusion of intricate vocal harmonies with social commentary. The album itself helped solidify The Mamas & The Papas as pioneers of 1960s folk-pop, and songs like “Free Advice” represent the playful side of the group’s artistry, balancing heavier, more introspective themes with humor and lightness. This balance is part of what made their music so enduring and influential, appealing to a wide range of listeners.

In conclusion, “Free Advice” by The Mamas & The Papas offers a blend of catchy pop and sharp wit, making it a standout track on their debut album, “If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears.” While not as commercially successful as some of their other hits, it remains an important part of their legacy, showcasing their ability to tackle social themes in a playful and accessible way. Through its biting yet light-hearted lyrics and harmonious arrangement, the song encapsulates the essence of the 1960s counterculture and provides a window into the changing social landscape of the time. Its enduring charm lies in its ability to both entertain and provoke thought, making it a memorable piece in The Mamas & The Papas‘ extensive catalog.

Video

Lyrics

A bit of free advice (vice)
We’ll tell it to you now (nice, twice)
If you’ve got some habits (ahh)
Some people won’t allow (won’t allow, allow)
Be cool
Be clean
If you know what I mean

We’ve all got our ups (ups, ups)
We’ve all got our downs (we’ve all got our downs)
Some of us are careless (ahh)
And leave ’em layin’ around (layin’ around, around)
Be neat
Discreet
And keep your ear to the ground
Everyone has had a loved one who’s far, far away
And if you don’t want to take that trip someday
(Free advice) be cool (be cool)
Be clean (be clean)
If you know what I mean, hoo

Everyone has had a loved one who’s far, far away
And if you don’t want to take that trip someday
A bit of free advice (vice, vice)
We’ll tell it to you now (tell it to you now)
If you’ve got some habits (ahh)
Some people won’t allow (won’t allow, allow)
Everyone has had a loved one
Don’t be out on the street
Everyone has had a loved one
If you know what I mean, hoo