The Cartoon Song By Chris Rice
In the car the other day, I heard a catchy little song on a Christian radio station.
I wasn't exactly sure what it was saying, so I turned it up and heard something about: "What if cartoons got saved?... They'd start singing praise in a whole new way."
The guy (Chris Rice, a Dove award-winning singer/songwriter) was singing "Hallelujah" in a variety of different cartoon characters' voices.
To give you an idea, here's one verse:
Fred and Wilma Flintstone sing: ya-ba-daba-lujah
Scooby-do and Shaggy: scooby-do-be-lujah
And the Jetson's dog named Astro: ra-ra-ru-jah
And, the final verse:
Now there's a point to this looney tune
I'm not an animaniac, but there's a lot of praising to do
And cartoons weren't made for that
It's our job. Oh, yeah.
(...see complete lyrics below.)
Turns out, this cute little ditty -- guaranteed to make you chuckle when you hear it -- has become somewhat controversial. It's called "The Cartoon Song" (a.k.a. "Cartoons").
Have a listen...
Listen To The Cartoon Song
Here is the full-length version of Chris Rice singing his Cartoons song.
Here's another (very similar) version of Chris Rice's Cartoon song... I believe this one is being sung by a Christian Children's singer named Bruce Fite.
A Controversial Christian Song
While I was listening to it, I was grinning from ear-to-ear. I thought it was funny. Witty. Catchy. An interesting way to appeal to very young kids.
Turns out, this song is HIGHLY controversial, and it was only intended to be a hidden track on his "Past The Edges" album.
Chris Rice (who also happens to be from Franklin, Tennessee) has gotten a lot of flack from the Christian community about it, and he's even refused to play it at his live concerts anymore.
Here's the scoop...
Chris Rice's Take On The Cartoon Song
According to a comment posted in a blog entitled They Will Know Us By Our T-Shirts:Chris Rice said: "The strong reactions to that part of the song are even more humorous to me, because I couldn't understand such a silly song getting such scrutiny. Also, in correcting my "theology" in the cartoon song, people were totally missing the fact that the whole song is about soul-less cartoons, none of whom can "get saved". A frog, a few dogs, a moose, turtles...getting 'saved'...horrible theology if you ask me. But theology was never the intention of the song, just a funny look at how cartoons might say "Hallelujah". "What if?" I'm sorry some people are missing the fun! "I was thinking the other day, why'd I ever write that song?..."
Interesting...
On his own website, Chris writes:
"No, I've never written a children's song, just a satirical song about the modern Christian tendency to 'Christianize' everything. I was hoping everyone would get the satire, but they missed the satire, and embraced the song as legit."
Chris also indicates that the Cartoon song was "born" in 1989 and "died" in 2004. What is interesting, however, is the fact that some radio stations still continue to play it -- against his wishes.
He adds:
"After 15 wonderful years of trouble-making and laughter, the beloved song about cartoons has finally been laid to rest. Well, actually just retired from live performances."
The Story Behind The Cartoons Song
For lots more about the song "Cartoons", how and why it was written, and why Chris refuses to play it "live" anymore, check out this post on his website.
Here's an interesting one-on-one interview Chris Rice did with CCM Magazine.
Check out another interview Chris Rice did with Christianity Today.
Here is Chris's MySpace page -- a great place to hear full-length versions of his songs!
Videos For Chris Rice's Cartoon Song
I was thinking the other day
What if cartoons got saved?
They'd start singing praise
In a whole new way
Yea, I was thinking the other day
What if cartoons got saved?
They'd start singing praise
In a whole new way
Fred and Wilma Flintstone sing
ya-ba-daba-lujah
Scooby-do and Shaggy
scooby-do-be-lujah
And the Jetson's dog named Astro
ra-ra-ru-jah
CHORUS
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
cowabunga-lujah, dude
Then there's Kermit the Frog here,
singing hi-ho-la-lujah
And that little bald guy, Elmer Fudd
hallelujah, uh
CHORUS
Oh that big ol' Moose and his friend Rocky,
ba-ya-ca-bujah
And our favorite bear named Yogi,
hi-a-baa-lujah
And There's all those little blue guys
And they'd sing..
la-la-lalalala-lalala-lujah
Oh, how 'bout Beavis, and that other guy
*beep*
CHORUS
Now there's a point to this looney tune
I'm not an animaniac, but there's a lot of praising to do
And cartoons weren't made for that,
It's our job. Oh, yeah
So let's sing hallelujah (hallelujah)
hallelujah (hallelujah)
hallelujah (hallelujah)
Let's sing hallelujah... (Let's sing hallelujah)
hallelujah (hallelujah)
AND everyone misses the part where it say, "Now there's a point to this looney tune, I'm not an animaniac, but theres alot of praising to do and cartoons weren't made for that its our job." Cartoon are inanimate object, they of course cannot praise God, but we who are made in his likeness, that is our job, to praise him in everything, in the good and in the bad, through our words and our actions... and guess what, we can have fun when we praise God...
There will always be the nit-pickers, who are looking for something negative to say... and that is very sad...
I,for one, love this song and I am glad that my christian radio stations still play it...
Lets learn to have fun in the Lord, brothers and sisters
I too love this song....I'm so glad that our radio station still plays it. I had no idea the controversy....Our Worship Team will actually be singing it tonight at a concert for a Pre Teen camp. So it is not dead, it is still alive!!!
LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS SONG...IT MAKES ME LAUGH AND IM GOING TO BE 30 IN A FEW WEEKS!!!! IT'S GREAT!!!!! PEOPLE OVERTHINK THINGS!!! AND THEY DON'T GIVE GOD ENOUGH CREDIT!!!!! HE HAS A SENSE OF HUMOR...I AM SURE HE LAUGHS AT ME ALL THE TIME!!!!!
I have three children ages 7, 9, and 11 and the only thing they have ever asked me about Beavis and that other guy is who are they? To accuse him of implying that some people are beyond salvation is putting a lot more thought in tearing a fellow Christian down than he put into entertaining and uplifting all who need to be reminded that we should "suffer the little children... for of such is the kingdom of Heaven." (http://bibleresources.bible.com/keywordsearchresults.php?multiplemethod=all&numpageresults=25&select=searchBible&keyword=suffer+the+children&version=9)
I just heard this song yesterday for the first time. My 4 year old and I and we both fell in love with it! I don't understand why people get so upset over this song. What this song says to me, other than giving me a nice giggle and enjoyment watching my 4 year old son sing and dance too it...I believe the song even has a good message to parents...cartoons are good and funny(the classics)and we should enjoy them, but we are also responsibible for making sure that our children make time for the Lord as well. So thank you so much for this sing Chris!!
I reall am glad you like my song. I only made it to praise God and have fun while doing it.
The youth fellowship at my church wanted to do this song for a coffee house so I dropped by here to get acquainted with what it was all about. I was surprised to see all the reaction to it. After reading the lyrics, I understand Rice's message to those who are believers. He said in the opening," what if cartoons got saved?" A hypothetical question. Well, if they could, that is how they would attempt to "praise" their saviour. As you can see, they would do rather poorly since they are not in God's likeness or His divine image. They were never meant to have the capacity to worship the Creator God or reflect His glory. On the other hand, we ( the real people )ARE in the likeness and image of God and we are created with the capacity to praise, worship and reflect God's glory. All Rice is saying that singing hallelujah is our job, nothing else in creation or imagination will do that.
I am deeply concerned with all the side taking on this issue and how most people are making up their minds about this song. What I see over and over is "I love it!" and that is their reason for why they approve of this song. Or they say, "I hate it because it is wrong!" and do not say what violation it is guilt of. The bottom line is that it is dangerous to embrace something just because it makes one smile or laugh.It is equally unwise to reject something because it rubs us the wrong way or it does not come across as pleasing. We should and are commanded to study the Word so that we have an objective standard to measure all things by. This song in its complete context is not dishonouring God nor is it violating any doctrine. I would try to explain it to my weaker brother that my conscience does not object to it being played. However, if they insist that it violates their conscience, then I am obligated to defer rather than cause him to sin. Read Romans chapter 14 about how to handle the liberty we are blessed with under grace.
I'm 54 years old, and I love this song from the first moment I heard. I've always believe that God has a sense of humor. The ones that picked it apart need to lighten up. God is the one that gave us laughter.
I'm with Chris.
I don't understand how so many people miss the meaning of this song. Everyone wants to pick it apart, trying to either find something wrong with it, or find some hidden meaning that gives them cause to praise. Rice clearly tells everyone the point of this song at the end: Cartoons are soulless animations.
If you want some praise and worship, well... turn off the television. There's a world full of people who need to hear the good news. Like the man said, it's our job, not the job of your television set.
All the way from Nigeria Africa, im saying "u are tight".
songs like this should be encouraged for the young folks.
We love this song. Our kids and My wife and I cant stop singing it. Some people need to under stand the meaning of it. It is a great song.
It is easy to know what I would say to my kids in response to the question, "mom/dad, why does he not sing like beavis and the other guy?"
"Well, kids, more than likely he couldn't think of how those two would sing it, and since he came up with the song in 10 minutes as a joke, he decided to pass on them."
Humans are not only funny, they sometimes over think things to the point of ridiculous. The song was meant in fun. Some people need to get over themselves; get a sense of humor, and remember that it isn't their job to judge anything or anyone else. Lighten up and enjoy life!
It is much too short to be so silly~lujah. lol sorry
I LOVE this song. I heard it this morning on the way to school (I'm a junior in high school). I love how this song is made for little kids, but it relates to everyone and everyone can enjoy it. Thanks Chris Rice!
I can't believe that ANY "Christian" would find a problem with this song. And for those folks who are opposed to it--and have posted HERE---I have one curious question for you.
How did you happen to make it to this particular site. I would have guessed that your life is way too serious, boring and bland to visit any page with the name "Fun Times".
My guess is these people are stuck way back in the dark ages. For heaven's sake, even God has a sense of humor...look around, I'd say he's a pretty funny God! For those of you who can't seem to get over the fact this song was directed for children in a fun in witty way to get them thinking, back off already, chill out for petes sake!
As a Reverend, I find this song to be witty, and fun. I guess those Clergy who do not understand must have very DULL places of Worship! God does have a humorous side. Christianity is supposed to have JOY in it, not just sorrow. LIGHTEN UP CLERGY!!!
The first time I heard this song was on a local radio station. I thought it was hillarious, even the Beavis and the other guy part. I agree with John who said, that God has a sense of humor, so lighten up folks. Like Chris Rice says, it's about "cartoon characters" who are souless. It's a fun song that was written to bring a smile to your face and make you laugh. I'm sorry that he retired the song from his concerts, but I will always enjoy it no matter how many times I listen to it.
I love this song!! We sing it in church in honor of the Kids!!!
nice song bro good job
First time i heard it i was like this is a alsome song,so i went bought it on cd and now i want it asa ring back tone and i will have it on my phone and i am 31 years old ita a alsome song.
i love this song it makes me feel like.......... i cant explain it i love it sooooooo much.
Apparently people haven't read the lyrics? Come on, Christians!! Let's lighten up! God has a sense of humor... for heaven's sake, he gave the Philistines hemorrhoids. We need to learn to laugh. The Christian life is a serious opportunity to experience JOY!! Let's live in it, shall we?
wherecan i get acopy of this song
Just read that Chris has retired this song ... too bad! My family loves the song and always will ... it is so fun.
I have never liked the Beavis and ... part but it gives us something to talk about with the kids and I can't throw out the song for just that. If I expect perfection in music lyrics I'll never listen to anything!
Keep up the great work Chris!
Controversery..smonsoversy! I heard this song for the FIRST TIME EVER!! just yesterday while driving home. I had to turn it up! It made me grin from ear to ear and I felt the intentions of the song through & through were pure, light-hearted, but meant to let kids and adults alike, know it's so cool to praise the Lord. It's what we were born to do! Go Chris..don't let these divisors of the Kingdom get you down!!
I LOVE THIS SONG. IT IS MY FAVORITE SONG.
My nieces and nephews love this song. What a great way to sing praise! Please continue to share your message!!!
Heared this message for the first time the other day while driving home from school. My kids and I have been looking for this song. Thank God I finally found it. It is an amazing song. My kids love it , and I think it's a fun and beautiful way to minister to kids. It catches and holds your interest. LOVE IT!!!
There's actually a boycott of Chris' work due to his suggestion that not all can receive Christ. This is of course in reference to his extremely offensive suggestion that Beavis and "that other guy" would never accept the Gospel.
That's amazing. I've been searching for the song, and this told me why I haven't found it. It's a hidden track! It could be the headline for its own album. The song does not denounce God, it does not take praise away from Christ, and it's not sacreligious in any sense. Before learning about all this "contreversy" I just thought it was a fun way to listen to people praise God who we don't get to hear praise God.
what an amazing song. it lifts our spirits as we listen to it very often on CCFM on the way to sork/school early in the morning. heard it just this morning again and can never hear it too much. do it again Chris!!!
This morning I was having a bad day and when Praise 106.5 played the Cartoon Song it lifted me up and made me smile. It was the first time I had ever heard it. I wish he would reconsider playing it again. I am 54 years old and loved it. Awesome song. Made my day.
I am suprised about these people complaining about this song. In my eye's it is Biblical because In the Bible we are told that if we would stop worshiping GOD that even the rocks would bow down and praise GOD. So why can't cartoon's? But as for me I will forever praise GOD.
nice song!!! the first time i heard this song, i was really laughing while i'm doing my stuff on my pc. so cute!!!! ya-ba-daba-lujah!!!
I think this is a cute song. It's too bad that something which was meant to be pure fun has been changed into something else at both ends of the extreme. But, Chris Rice has so many other great songs. I love how he has a very sincere approach to his lyrics, even exposing and resolving personal struggles. It's better than being serious; it's being real. Anyhow, we will keep the "Cartoon" song alive in the underground culture of youth groups. I'm in the process of lifting the chord changes now so my youth group can have fun with it too. We will know that it's not meant to be a "praise" song, nor a theological song. But, I do love his challenge that "there's a lot of praising to do, and cartoons weren't made for that. It's our job." It's not super serious, but it's a good point at the perfect level for the point to be given to teenagers. Let the FUN live on!
I love the "Cartoon Song" It is a fun song. I don't know why anyone would have a problem with this song.
i love ths song its sad people cant just injoy a nice funny song
I heard the Cartoon song this morning. Every time I hear it I sing along. I can't do the cartoon voices but I do appreciate the song. It also helps me remember my childhood when I watched some of those cartoons. I knew they were just cartoons but I enjoyed them. I am pastor in a Lutheran Church and part of my ministry and teaching is to see the significance of the ligher side of things. Of course cartoons can't be saved but they can teach us how to follow the Lord.
I love this song. I loved the different cartoon voices it make the song so cooli t took me awhile to find it but i bought it and love it. Any questions email me at hammertime32106@cs.com
i love this song! im 14! i didnt hear it till our youth pastor sang it a few months ago n a service! i really wish that people would understand the meaning of it better!! it has a good point! well god bless!
my question for those that love this song so much. what would you say to your kid one day if they ever said... "mom/dad, why does he not sing like beavis and the other guy?"
kids are intuitive and they pick up more than we give them credit for. you can take it as a fun song but what do you do when they ask you that question?
I'm not anti-Chris Rice. He's produced some amazing songs. I'm just not a fan of this song (anymore). Our job as Christians is to always be discerning.
Ok whoever thinks this song is bad and should be banned or w/e should really go to a therapist. I mean i understand some of the stuff but asking Chris rice to actually stop playing this song just because YOU don't like it is wrong. More then 70% of the people who commented said they liked the song. And for those sad few % that disliked the song well all i have to say to you people is that you are probaly old and hate kids.
I can't believe people are making this such a controversial issue! It is a silly song written with good intentions and was never meant to be anything but just a silly song about praising God. Kids love it! I love it! Anyone who has a problem with it needs to get a grip and go out and find their sense of humor. I can't stand it when people call themselves Christian but then look for the negative in EVERYTHING. Looks like Satan has won again by letting something so cute and silly be turned into something....else.
hey, this song rocks! we sing it all the time in our youth group. it started playing on our christian radio station, K-LOVE, a little while ago.
but my favorite chris rice song is "the other side of the radio"
I LOVE THIS SONG!!!!! I heard it not on the radio but at my V.B.S. camp, it was everyone's favorite song. Some of the older kids, my friends, and I would make a human pyramid and all of us would sing along. It was so awsome!!!:D
I love this song, it is so great. My little girl heard it for the first time the other day and laughed all the way through.
God has a wonderful sense of humour and he loves us don't get bogged down in the Theology, smile have some laughs we know that it's pretend.
Chris although you may never see my comments, you have given the world a wonderful, delightful song that brings joy to the heart and gives all the glory to God. Well done.
Don't listen to the 'Na' sayers things haven't changed much in 2000 years. there will alway be someone who complains about something. I think some people may have a few sacred cows that need to be dealt with.
Again thankyou for a great song.
Pastor Keith Alchin
I've loved this song from the first time I heard it. Had to be several years ago. But this is the first I've heard that there was anything controversial about it. How unfortunate. The song is cute, catchy, and just plain funny. Who can resist trying to sing along with Chris and imitate those characters? An uplifting giggle-fest is what I say... and then the chorus hits, and if you're paying attention, you're reminded that it's our job to Praise God. I happen to like Chris's idea of joyful noise. And What IF cartoons got saved? Maybe Bob and Larry can explain it to us.
We just heard this song for the first time. My kids 11 and 9 love it. It was done for Spring School program.
We crack up at it and sing a long. My parents non-church goers, loved it too. I think some other people need a better hobby. Go pick on someone or something REALLY needing your attention...
I heared this song in my car, and i loved it so i went on google and put what if cartoons were saved now my mom cant get me to stop singing it and im downloding it to my mp3 but any ways i loved it well got to go i have to go memerize the lirecs tootles!!!
i cant seem to get enuff of it! heard it today & wen it started, i thought i heard something close to Tom & Jerry's soundtrack then after a while i heard the smurfs... Chris, you are the greatest!
My husband and I love this song, as do our four kids. We just heard it on Sirius for the first time in a long time the other day, and we came home and started looking for the CD, which we can't seem to find anywhere. I can't find anything wrong with this song...it's humorous and will lift your spirits if you're having a bad day.
This is a great song! I just heard it today and so did my younger sisters, and they loved ot too! Right now I was thinking that it would be SO COOL, if you sang that song at my little sisters elementary school. But, I'm asumming that your proably to busy. Continue singing that song, it's funny, involves worship, and it's great.
I love this song you should not quit singing it. I think if people get offended by it then they have a problem. Not every song has to be serious its good to have a funny song to listen to once in a great while!
This is my favorite song and I don't understand what is so wrong with it. It is just a song trying to be funny and also help people relize that they should be the one's worshiping the lord.
This is my favriot song I ever heard! At first I didnt like but now its my favirot song ever! Now im tring to memorize it!
I think this song is great, and just NOW found out that it is "contraversial". Come on...you have GOT to be kidding. It is a "fun" song. NO HARM DONE. My kids LOVE it each time they hear it. Now what I want to know, is...can I find it on a CD?
I love this song I lisen to it as ofen as posible
My sister also loves it
I was amazed when I heard this song for the first time! Eventually I took the time to learn more about it online. I listen to the song over and over and over. I am even trying to memorize the lyrics. This song is fantastic!
my 9 year old and i recently heard this song for the first time. we love it!!! had to come home and find out who sang it and couldn't believe the controversy over it. we will continue to listen to it!
I can't begin to say how much I love this song. I'm 40 years old and my sister is 35. We love to sing along to this song and really can't see what's not to like about it. Can someone please tell me which album this song is on? I MUST get it NOW, NOW, NOW!!! My 2 1/2 year old daughter thinks the song is fun, and for those of us who have children (especially young children)it can be used as a really meaningful talking point. How do we praise the Lord? How do we say 'Hallelujah'? What does it mean? Why do we praise the Lord? I actually think this song can be a very powerful tool if used correctly.
To the modern day Scribes and Pharisees who find this song offensive, or inappropriate (or whatever!): I love you, but I TOTALLY DISAGREE WITH YOU. This is a fun song which has appealed to a wide audience of young and old. How great is that?! Put 'theology ' (and all the other 'ologies') aside and just enjoy this song for what it is.
And now repeat after me: "YABBA DABBA DOO YA!!!!!!!!!!!"
I see that a lot of people love this song. I do too. I teach with cartoons (God's gift to me and the world). I feel like I may need it for my website that teaches Bible parallels of secular cartoon works. I teach with the Smurfs, Tom and Jerry, Chip N' Dale, TaleSpin, Tiny Toons, The Simpsons, etc. I don't get paid for it or anything. I don't even know how to publish the work (in other words how to go about getting permissions and contacting publishers.) My website also has Bible parallel lessons on the Yugioh card game. Anything as in the cartoons works like the cartoon song (How do we help them get saved or witness to them if they were real, or is a character in question helping another character to find truth or hurting him/her) It's a very interesting ministry. I love the cartoon song because what it talks about is a big part of my ministry.
God Bless You. Be Safe.
In Christ,
Love Richie
e-mail: professorparody@toonspirit.net
I do like the song. However, the way I read/hear it is the Bevis and the other guy can't get saved. Now I know cartoons can't get saved but if an individual out there lived his/her life like those two guys and they were their idols, then the song tells them they don't have a chance.
I really don't understand anyone having a problem with this song. It is seems to be targeted towards kids, I beleive anything that can attract a child towards God's word can't be bad. I see more young people coming to God's word, maybe because of people like Chris Rice. In this world of over stimulation you have to be pretty dramatic to get a childs attention. What do you prefer a silly cartoon song or a mind numbing video game?
My 3year old LOVES this song. I was in a irratible mood and have been smiling since I heard this song today. God Bless You Chris Rice. We should sing halleluia any way we Can to God.
I teach Childrens Church at my church and we love to listen to this song they really get into it .
that song is so cool me and my friends cant stop listening to it!!!!!!!!!!
I recently started listening to KLOV. That song really stands out among the others in a great way. There hasn't been a "fun" song released in YEARS! Where's the negativity? I haven't seen or heard of any!
I love "the cartoon song" i think that is awsome.
GOD bless you!!!
my husband who doesnt really enjoy christian music heard this last night on the christian station and really loved it he looked this song up and found that people were not happy with this song it saddens me to know that a song that could possibly reach someone and possibly save someone from hell could get so much discrimination chris please re-consider banning your song it puts a smile on my face and reached my husband im so sorry that people have to be so judgemental your dont even realize what what an impact your song has on people in a positive way
HEy Chris Rice!! I love this song it is awesome!! email me
haha, I love this song, too. I am a 19 yr old college student and have a REALLY analytical mind - but it really takes some trying to find something wrong with this song. Anyone doing so is just looking for a fight - that is NOT how Christians should be acting, and is certainly not anywhere near the heart of this song. It can make this nation (and any others, for that matter) smile as a whole.
Take note that there hasn't been a single person to make a negative comment about this song.
Chris Rice, if you ever read this, please let your heart rest easy with this song - it has done more good than just about any contemporary Christian song today.
this song is the best! it makes me laugh and smile!keep it up! even when i'm in a bad mood all i have to do is listen to the song and i'm happy! :)
This is the cutest song ever. Ever since the first time I heard it on the radio it has been stuck in my head. How anyone could have a problem with it is beyond me. Keep up the great work and God Bless!
this song isnt just 4 kids, its for every christian in the whole wide world!
I like this song. I heard it on the radio for the first time this evening and it makes me laugh. It's a funny song and I agree it shouldn't be taken too seriously. If your heart is right with God, then whatever you think about the song doesn't really matter... you can just enjoy it or not enjoy it.
I think this song shouldn't be such a big deal. However, some people who are saying it shouldn't be a big deal are making it a big deal! Personally, I am not against it. That's fine. Some people are against it. That's fine too. I'm unhappy that some people are here say things like, "They must not be very good Christians" about people who don't like the song. To me, that is being just as judgemental as the people who judge the song. Guys, can't we just accept what people think? There are plenty of songs out there with controversy, and we shouldn't be judging others' characters because of their opinions. You can be close to God and like the song, or you can be close to God and dislike the song... they are not mutually exclusive!
I'm also unhappy that I need to say this in the first place. Debate is good, but I'm sad that Christians are writing off other Christians over this. I feel sorry for Chris.
Last word: I love you all no matter what your opinion is about The Cartoon Song!
My cousin told me about this song. She's a mother of four, and I'm a 40 year old bible school student that has been saved for 4 or 5 years. I still remember Beavis and "the other guy" (he tactfully avoided the name that could be offensive to some)despite not having watched it for a very long time. I don't have to wonder what Bob and Larry would say either, so age appeal is out the window, not a factor... The point is, you don't have to be a kid to enjoy this. It's a great song. As has been posted, the final verse says it all.
I remember a person that had been saved much longer than I, had got offended by something I had said. I was able to back it up with multiple scriptures in context, despite his saying it wasn't in there. The scriptures weren't veiled or hard to understand. He was adamant, and I wanted to be sure, so I asked my bible school's administrator (also teaches) about it. She backed me up. Simply, it's not time saved, but time in the Word and relationship with Christ that makes one a mature believer. This one thing she said applies here; Some people choose to be offended and will look for things to be offended about. Taking offense hinders growth, so we need to show the person love, praying for them according to Ephesians 1 that they get a spirit of wisdom and revelation and know the fullness of His love.
I, for one am going to send a link to this song to my other Veggie tales watching frends.
Some people get offended by the brilliant Christian parody band Apologetix too. No, I'm just a fan of theirs, not related in any way.
As Porky might say, Ha'nyeh, ha'nyeh, ha'nyeh...praise God, folks!
I heard this song the other morning on the way to church, I just loved it. I was asking everyone if they had heard it and was trying to sing it for them (which was quite funny). Finally I found it on the internet and was able to let others listen to it. Thanks for a great, clean, kid friendly song. God Bless
I heard this some about a year ago and I was like wow I like this some its a FUN song to listen to everytime it comes on the radio I get a big smile on my face. this is such a great and fun song to listen to...
Me and my Mom heard the song hot to long ago and we fell in love with it. I hope it was a much fun to make it as it was to listin to it.
i love this song but can never find it. your a great artist.
Do not let the negativity and the naysayers stop you. You have a gift for the young people. Step forth and let them enjoy it again.
AWESOME SONG! And if those rascal people would read and listen to the last verse..."...but there's a lot of praising to do and cartoons weren't made for that, it is our job..."
There is nothing bad about this song at all. Hope he sings it loud at his next concert. We will be singing with him!
I was trying to find info. on this song because we have a children's dance team at church and I thought it would be cute if they danced a christian dance to show them that cartoons can praise God too. The children are so young the do not know that the cartoons they love can't get saved and praise God. Why is it wrong to influence our children on a Christian way buy using the things they see everyday?
I haven't heard this song on my radio station in over a year, which makes me really sad! My husband, our 5-year-old and 3-year-old boys, and I all love it! I never realized the station stopped playing it because of any controversy, but I wish Mr. Rice had not let those judgmental people affect what he does and does not play or allow to be played on the radio. I believe this song could have been instrumental in reaching cartoon watchers from every genre.
Brazil: 2002 - First time I heard this song. Amazing, I am trying to translate it to portuguese (not easy). I work with children at church.
Cris is Soooo clear about the "I imagined if... it's not their job... it's ours!", and about Beavis and the other guy, if you're a Christian, you need to despise that kind of cartoon.
Christians make too many concessions and listen to all sorts of "junk", and I know for sure Jesus wouldn't watch Beavis and the other guy, why should we?
Send Cris your love and support, pray for him. Ministries like his need covering and prayer.
i love this song. i don't see what the problem is. it is just a fun, hilarious praise song. if this is the way he wants to praise, then let him. better yet, join him. if you don't like the song, then don't listen just like you don't listen to any other song you don't like.
I JUST LOVE THE CARTOON SONG SO MUCH I WISH I COULD LISTEN TO IT EVERYDAY..... IT MUST HAVE BEEN SO FUN TO PRACTICE IT.......
I love this song. Because of this song my 9yr old has really loved going to church and learning more and more about Christ. A "Christian" friend says That Roman Catholic's( Which my son and I are) are not "christians" Sorry I love Christ regardless of my religion and hte Cartoon Song is now being played EVERYTIME my friend comes over....Sorry to say I think it fits
i love this song.
i say to chris rice (not me), if you like to sing this song, sing it, a song that you feel is beautiful should be expressed.
to all of you trying to insinuate meaning, dont, just read what he wanted it to mean.
I love this song and have for years. Now as a father of a six year old son, and a three year old daughter I love it even more. I get so much joy out of listening to them sing it when it comes on the radio.
I first heard this song at a church camp in 1998. Even though Chris thinks this is just a "funny song" I got so much more out of it that day.It made me think about my passed and how my life back then is like a cartoon ( hard to explain without being graphic.) as I had my group leader walk me down the isle with this song playing to let my passed go and became what I call now a person and not and object. I AM A PROUD CHRISTIAN NOW! THANK YOU CHRIS....
I IOVE the cartoon song ohhhhhhh yaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I heard this song and had to have it. We just started a church and within a few weeks we have enough kids to begin a kid's church. I though the kids would love this song. I am going to hunt for the cd for my kids. It really is a shame that so called "Christian's" gave Chris such a hard time about this song. Christ came so that we may have life and live it more abundantly! That means even having fun. What a shame some "Christians" don't understand that!
holy cow, i toatally love this song, i know i am 13 but this caartoon song rocks, i searched around everywhere tyo find the lyrics!!! lol,,,
Weird! I was thinkin the other day what if cartoons got saved, too! lol
Just got back from church camp last week taking care of 11 boys ages 6 to 10. This song was by far their favorite of the songs they had in worship service. I was amazed at how quickly the children learned the lyrics and how they got into singing it. Even some of our very shy quiets kids were up dancing, clapping, etc when they sang this one. We got a copy of the CD that was made there at camp of the songs they had sang and I have had to listen to it everytime we go somewhere with my 6 year old. I do a search on the net for the lyrics and find where so-called christians are offended by it. I would be willing to bet on 2 things...
1. Chris Rice did not write this song for the adult audience..
2. You can not find a child under the age of 12 that takes offense by it..
Lighten up people... You do what it takes to catch children's attention and keep it.....
Thank you sooooo much for this song. We cannot get enough of it. Our nephews (1 and 3) just love to hear this song too. It is good to have a song that we can all listen to. Thank you.
Thank-you very much for having the info about this song. My grandson Tanner (age 8 ) ask for us to sing it at church and we plan to do so this week.
Thank-You Again
Patsy Gilley
I love this song and I fail to see how there can be anything wrong with something that makes you smile even though you're having a terrible day...so Chris Rice THANK YOU... and may God richly bless his life and his talent.
What a great song. Everytime I listen to this song it brings a smile to my face and I have to sing along. When I read that Chris stopped singing this song live it sadden my heart to think that there are people out there that don't know how to have fun and rejoice in the Lord always and again I say rejoice.
When I sing Hallelujah at the end of this song there is a true anointing there. It's not the song, the singer or the words, people. It's what's in your heart and if your singing it to the Lord. He knows.... Chris keep up the good work. I pray you come out with many more songs like this one to bring a smile to my face and many others.
I am sorry. My 7 year old finds this song very apealing and to him the point is that if you get saved it is a good thing. If it gets kids interested I say WONDERFULL!! What if Fred was a real person and he got saved what do you think he would say?????? I think some people have to much time on their hands. I have never heared such bunch of uptight nonsense.
The Cartoon song is beautiful! I found it very inspirational at a difficult time in my life because of its simplicity. Chris makes his point beyond theology which is lets rejoice in the blessings we have.
I say go for it man. If a Christian is critiquing a piece of your work that brings happiness and joy through praise then they aren't a very good Christian! I love the song; it made me laugh and think! I used to be an active part of our church's team kids program and you could bet I would have had them singing this song and I can guarantee they would have loved it!
It amazes me that people can be so legalistic and that this song is controversial. I wonder - what if politicians got saved... what if comics got saved.. what if Hollywood got saved...
CHRIS - don't ever regret writing this song. Remember- Christ said you would be ridiculed for doing His work. It is disappointing that you will never again perform the Cartoon live, but keep up with the untraditional, controversial work. A forever fan....
I absolutely love this song. When I heard it for the first time I was singing along and tapping my foot to the beat of the song. This is a perfect song, and I think that it does help with getting children into the Christain scene. Parents can only do so much and to have a fun song like this one that children enjoy listening to is awesome. I hear this song on K.LOVE and it just brings a smile to my face. Keep up the good work Chris.
this song is just a hoot! i heard it yesterday and i love it, and i don't get y any1 would dislike it, just let those political morons do their thing, but me.... i love this song!!!
my old church had the lyrics for this song on an overhead for the kids in elementary, it was one of our favorites. I've been looking forever for the lyrics and now I have them.
I cannot believe how some people, and "church folk" in particular, can be sooooooooooooooooo deep. I'm not talking about Christians who go to church, because I am a Christian, not just by name (i.e. the name of Christ), but also by trade (my lifestyle). I am talking about overly religious people. Sometimes we as Christians can focus so much on the negative, that we miss the positive, it kinda reminds me of the attitudes of the Pharisees and Sadducees of Jesus' day.
When I went home to Baltimore this weekend, I had made plans to purchase something that was really important to me, but for some reason it just seemed that things were fighting against me on every hand to prevent me from getting it. It was exhausting I tell ya. I even said to myself, "maybe it is not meant for me to get a..." Therefore, I found myself in a not so pleasant mood; I was really disappointed. As my parents and I sat in the car scrambling through the yellow pages to find information on where I could go to purchase this particular thing, and not have to pay an arm and a leg for it, my Dad, who is also a Christian heard this song coming on the radio, turned it up and told me to listen to it. Like many of us, when we get upset, I did not feel like being cheered up right away, I started to say, "Daddy, I really don’t feel like listening to any music", but I said to myself, "what’s it gonna hurt", so I listened. Can I tell you that by the end of the song, my spirits were lifted high and the only think I could do was just laugh and brag on how cute this little song was and then thank God for the humor and laughter. Thank you Lord, no, hallelujah. I honestly believe that God has a sense of humor, He has to have one in order to deal with us on a day in and day out basis :~); we are some funny people. Can I tell you that when I allowed my spirit to be lifted up by the humor of this song, this thing that my parents and I were trying so hard to located in the yellow pages, was basically right in front of us. I was able to purchase it and did not have to pay no way near how much I expected to pay for it.
Chris, I really hope the Lord places it on your heart to bring this song back out again. I remember when the hit Gospel artist, Kirk Franklin got a lot of flack when he came out with his song called "Stomp". He even said some "Church Folk" (the overly religious ones) told him he wasn’t saved. He went through all of this hardship because of this one song, but he has had a positively tremendous affect on the Christian youth and even the world. He won numerous awards, including a Grammy---to God be the glory. I know this song is hidden on one of your CD’s, but can you tell me what CD I can find it on? It is truly a blessing. My email is listed below.
Regards,
Saranne
Isabellarose@excite.com
Washington, DC
My friend and I pick asparagus and we love to sing this song while we're picking because it really lightens the mood! Besides that, this is a great song!
I heard this song a while back ( my comment is one of the first) and now my youth group is singing this in a youth service, everybody has a different voice they are going to do. It sounds really cool!
I listen to a Christian station (Klove) everyday and can't wait to hear the song of the cartoons singing Halleluia.
I think it should could continue to be sung at concerts. People sing about worse things in concerts than anything bad that anyone may get out of this song.
Don't people realize that there are many many songs with cuss words that are sung at concerts and even put on the air for children to hear!!!!!!!? It is sickening!! So to hear a song with the little cartoons, it is very refreshing. So keep up the singing----who cares what the nonbelievers think. That is sad to stop singing it because a few protest it.
Aubrey -
I've added the information you requested to the article above.
The cartoon song is a hidden track on Chris Rice's Past the Edges CD.
OH MY GOSH!! I LOOOOOOOVE this song! I hadn't listened to it in a long time and then it came on the radio and I was so HAPPY!!! Do you have any idea where I can get this cd? Please e-mail me when you can find out! Thanks for making this incredible song Chris Rice!
I am so sorry that some people can't listen to the words and get the meaning. Chris even stated in the song "Now there's a point to this looney tune
I'm not an animaniac, but there's a lot of praising to do And cartoons weren't made for that,
It's our job!"
Chris is stating that God created us for praising him, and all these distractions "cartoons" can't even praise the creator. Animaniacs have what dust and moths can corrode in their sight. And as far as I'm concerned so do all those who cut his funny song about how God wants our praises.
I too have been criticized by a particular group of people who THINK they know my intentions. It's not fun, it's very, very painful. God bless Chris with his ministry of praises and his God given talent for sharing what God has placed on his heart. And for all those whom chose to cut him down, please go read about the Pharisees, and learn what it means to misinterpret others.
HOW CAN ANYONE NOT LOVE THIS SONG.. I WISH I COULD ADD IT TO MY "MYSPACE" PROFILE FOR OTHERS TO HEAR IT.
Wonderful..uplifting and fun song.... Just what our world needs a bit of laughter with our faith.. Blessings from the heart tooooo YAAAAAAAAH!
I just heard this song on the radio. I LOVE it! I'm going to share it with my kids and everyone I know who has kids. Now, whether Mr. Rice realized it or not, putting the song on a "hidden" track was/is a stroke of marketing genius. I hever heard of Chris Rice before now I want to check out more of his music. What album is this song on? Mr. Rice should "hide" "Cartoon" on all his albums. :o)
I was riding in the car with two of my best friends and my best friend turned it up to share with us. It's such an uplifting song and such a great way to have fun! I can't wait to share it with my Theology class! Way to go Chris :)
We Love it!!!! God bless Chris Rice! Scooby-do-be-lujah!!!!!!!!!!!!
I really love this song. Our Youth got to do a really funny/cool dance for the Easter morning program. But this song is really cool but I usually go by the meaning of the song at the end.
An uplifting tune, sorry others don't understand it. Sometimes I wonder what others do understand about our GOD. Thanks for the fun of it and may those who don't understand will get the message of the song.
I just heard this song for the first time today and it's a really cool song. I understand the conflict some have over it, but I think Chris solves that well by the end (if we all listen to it. It's a shame that people don't get it.
My 9 year old son LOVES this song. Were can you buy this song? And do you have anymore songs like this one? Thank you and God Bless you and yours.
My lil bro and I love this song tons.
but we cant find a place to listen to it.
we need help please
-ERin and James
I LOVE THIS SONG!!!!! It's so unique and funny to think what would happen if cartoons actually got saved!
This is a GREAT song. People need to relax. I was just getting on the internet today to try to find this song for the kids at church, and I ran across the comments about how this has become a "controversial" song and just had to laugh. This is crazy. We all need a little laughter here and there and this song ALWAYS puts me in a good mood!
Heard this song on the radio tonight on my way home from Bible study. I thought it was fantastic. It especially caught my ear because my 3 year old is totally into Scooby Doo right now. What a way to reach the audience and spread the word!!! I searched the internet to find it and I'm e-mailing to everyone I know!!!
LOVE IT LOVE IT!!!!I adore this song it rocks!!!I even asked my drama program at my church 2 do a dance 2 it, they did>IT WAS SOOOOOOOOOO AWESOME!!!!
i think my doughters love this song and they play it all the time they love it and its begininng to beto my understandin now.
love this song its verry interesting beacouse well we sing it wiht me and my christan church sing it all the time we all love it and its kindergaden through 6th grade that sing that song its gratest song ever
i love this song it has the best meaning in god im a christan its asome!!!!!!!!!!!
Yep, the Lord has done it again. Just like He did with Mel Gibson's "Passion", just like He did with Andres Serrano's "**** Christ", He, the Lord, allowed Chris Rice to write a song. Not a great song, not a perfect song, not a wonderful song, but a controversial song. What was "His" purpose? I don't assume I will ever understand His greater wisdom, but I do know what happened. What has happened? People are talking about Jesus...again, and again, and again. Praise God in all His Grace and Mercy, He loves us enough to allow songs like "The Cartoon Song" to exist. Like it or not, listen to it or not, pass it on or not, one thing is sure. When you are done, give all praise and glory to God. "It's all about you, Jesus, for your glory and your fame. It's not about me, as if you should do things my way. You alone are God, and I surrender to your ways." (Chris Rice - Jesus Lover of My Soul)
love this song
What a great song! My 2 1/2 year old daughter loves it. It is a very creative song.
I laugh everytime I listen to this song, it's cheerful,and fun. I can't wait to let my grandaughter listen to it.
hey i love this song!im only 11 years old. now it makes since now that i know the words its(i was thinking the other day what if cartoons got saved)i thought it was(i was thinking the other day what has cartoons got to say)now i understand this song and i still love it.i want to hear it now so bye.
It is the best song in the universe. It is better than candy
I think it's the cutest song & I really does say something b/c it's not a cartoons job to raise a child!!
oh my goodness was that song great- heard it today for the first time! notice how all of the comments are positive about the song except one? most people enjoy the lighter side of life-let's remind eachother to accentuate the positive, eliminate the negatives! This song is plain funny, and got me in a joyful uplifted mood! This song says to me that Christianity is for everyone. Nice or not, let's never give up hope on someone! Let God do the judging! Humor and laughing will reach a wider variety of ages and backgrounds!! GREAT SONG!!!
What a terrible song! Not because of the silly notion of cartoon characters getting saved, but because it reinforces the commonly-accepted notion that Christianity is for "nice" folks. When Chris Rice gets to the line, "...how 'bout Beavis and that other guy?" his response (at least on the live version) is, "Nahhh!" Obviously immature boys obsessed with flatulence and sexual innuendo aren't the sort that we should be interested in evangelizing, because they wouldn't fit the "nice" mold!
Why do people always have to focus on the negative? I think it's a great song. It put me in a great mood this morning when I was driving. I love it!
Personally, if someone has a problem with this song, they need to have their head examined IMHO. It's a song. Get over it people. It was written with good intentions. If you can't get a grasp on it, get on your knees and spend a little more time in prayer to God. He will show you where you should be.
I LOVE THIS SONG. IT IS MY FAVORITE SONG EVER. I LOVE IT . MY PASTOR USED SOME DIFFERENT WORD THOUGH. LIKE INSTEAD OF BEEP HE USED NAH.
The first time I heard that song it was about two years ago. A friend told me he had a song that I just had to listen to, and what can I say i'm still a fan. I find it sad that people will always look for the bad in something before they start seeing the good. All I can say is that God must be smiling everytime we sing that song,who wouldn't everytime we go ya-ba-daba-lujah...
I love this song. I think it is silly that it would be controversial!!
Keep singing the song and let God judge those who disagree with it. I can't imagine anybody calling themselves a christian and disagreeing with what God really inhabits, the praises of His people. I wonder why Satan doesn't want it to be sung! Cause God gets the glory in it. Keep playing it radio stations, your doing God a service when you do!
This song is AWESOME. i love it. i turn up the radio every time it comes on.
My daughter and I love this song! It is so much fun! Doesn't it say in the song that cartoons aren't made for that, it's our job? It says to me, let's have a little fun, but remember it's our job to praise God! I think God has a sense of humor and probably loves the song as much as we do!!!!
i love this song. i heard it at awanna a couple of weeks ago! great stuff.
I heard this song on the radio with my 8 year old and 6 year old boys. We all loved it! I think it is wonderful to have a song they relate to and to make them think..."Yeah, it is really cool to praise the Lord!"
I really love this song! It's awesome. I think a couple of my friends are going to sing it for our church's talent show. The kids at Vacation Bible School will love it too!
I LOVE this song. That would be cool if the cartoons could praise the Lord. I don't have the cd but I want to get it. I heard it a couple times on the radio and I wanted to hear it over and over again.
WOW! What a great song! Seems to me that sometimes,us Christians,spend so much time looking for something bad that they miss the whole blessing!Remember that convictions are PERSONAL. I didnt hear any lyrics stating this was a biblical song inspired from the WORD.Anyways God Bless You Chris Rice. Dont let firey darts get you down.
I was thinking that if all them people who said bad stuff about God's people that are trying to help our kids with a "childs" Christian song would get saved we'd all start singing PRAISE in a whole REAL WAY! Play that song. It is good. And anyway I am glad I have cartoons to teach children of Jesus with because it is something they relate too. So all you out there who say bad stuff about that song must not care about the children! GOD HELP YOU ALL! Wander how you raise your rug rats?
I love this song! I have a six year old son and a two year old daughter who love it as well. We heard this song and have spent countless hours trying to find it. It is a shame people can't take it for what it is. Can christians not have a sense of humor?
I heard this song on the radio and I wanted my parents to hear it, so I LOVE IT!
I LOVE this song! When I worked at the Family Christian Store, it was one of the most requested songs ("I heard this song, it was like yabba dabba dooya??"). I think it ended up on 2 of his albums, one hidden track and one regular. Can't believe some people are taking it so seriously!