What do you think is the meaning of the Kermit "Rainbow Connection" song?

Question

i've heard everything from gay symbolism to peace, etc.

Answer 1

I'd go for peace... to bring everyone together to live in perfect harmony... as all the colors in a rainbow do. I love that song. :)

btw, the original person to sing the song was Karen Carpenter... check it out. She's awesome.

Answer 2

Lyrics To Rainbow Connection

Answer 3

Rainbow Connection Lyrics

Answer 4

G'day LilTex06,

Thank you for your question.

The Rainbow Connection performs the same function in The Muppet Movie as Somewhere over the Rainbow did for The Wizard of Oz - introducing the main character and establishing a yearning for adventure.

It was a popular song originally performed by Kermit the Frog (Jim Henson) in The Muppet Movie in 1979. By extension, as evidenced in the TV special, The Muppets at Walt Disney World, the song has come to epitomize the ideals and artistic spirit of Henson and his company as much as "When You Wish Upon a Star" represents Walt Disney and his company.

It has been covered by artists such as Sarah McLachlan, Kenny Loggins, The Dixie Chicks, Justin Timberlake, The Carpenters, Jason Mraz, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, Caroline's Spine, Willie Nelson (who is actually often incorrectly credited with penning the song), and many others. The song was written by Paul Williams and Kenneth Ascher.

Kermit's version of "The Rainbow Connection" reached #25 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November of 1979; the song remained in the Top 40 for 7 weeks total. It was a hit in Australia too.

Kenny Ascher and Paul Williams received Oscar nominations at the 1979 Academy Awards both for the entire song score for the movie and for this unlikely radio hit which Kermit sings with all the dreamy wistfulness of a short, green Judy Garland. Actually, "The Rainbow Connection" serves the same purpose in this film that "Over the Rainbow" serves in The Wizard of Oz, with nearly equal effectiveness: an opening establishment of the characters' driving urge for something more in life. The song also won the Golden Globes for "Best Original Song" in 1979.

The song was recorded by the original voice of Kermit, Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets.

The popular song's name has been used by a number of charitable organizations wishing to evoke its message, including a children's charity similar to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a summer camp for seriously ill children, and a horseback riding camp for people with disabilities. It is also the name of a suspender and tie store and a gay and lesbian retreat.

I have attached sources for your reference.

Regards

Answer 5

Well, since the song was written before the rainbow became a well known symbol for homosexuality and the words have little to do with that particular subject I think we can rule that out.
It is about visions and dreams, desires for things that seem out of our grasp but believing and continuing to dream those dreams and knowing that one day they will be a reality. The connection between seeing the rainbow, knowing it is an illusion, an intangible vision, yet at the same time, knowing it is there and wanting to grasp it and believe in it

Answer 6

Gay symbolism and peace do come to mind. However think of the verse; "Someday we'll find it, the lovers, the dreamers and me" I think it is more about finding your metaphoric gold at the end of the rainbow. You know, the answer to your dreams, hopes, heart's desire and prayers. It is different for everyone. Kermit just wants his wish to come true. And yours and mine and theirs to, so that we can all be happy.

Answer 7

Paul Williams was smart, but I don't think this song means much more than its words. Jim Henson probably liked the imagery presented by the actual lyrics and thought it appropriate for deep thinking green froggie muppets to sing.

The imagery is quite powerful based on the face value of the lyrics alone, without need for any hidden meanings.
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/kids/lyrics/rainbow.htm

Answer 8

I think it's more or less just a reminder that sometimes there's more out there than just what you can see, and that imagination is a good thing. Remember, it's a kid's song, and to a child a rainbow is just something pretty and rare enough to be exciting. It doesn't represent anything more than that to them.

Answer 9

You're right. I know the lyrics. I tried to recall it in my head but it doesn't make sense unless u ask directly the lyricist of the song.

Answer 10

I LOVE THAT SONG!!!!!!!! The Carpenters did it first and I think its all about LOVE, what else? I'm a lover and a dreamer, are you?