Al Pacino, Al Pacino favourite song [Image Source: MEDIA-AMAZON]
Al Pacino, renowned for his intense on-screen presence since his debut in the 1969 television movie “The Indian Wants the Bronx,” has captivated audiences for decades with his remarkable performances. While many view Pacino as a natural actor, his success is firmly rooted in years of dedicated effort, a commitment that extends beyond his craft to a pursuit of positive social change. Pacino’s focus on meaningful work is mirrored in his appreciation for art that challenges societal norms, most notably represented by his choice of ‘You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught’ as his favourite song—a fact that sheds new light on the actor’s personal philosophy and values.
The Importance of Hard Work and Artistic Integrity
Pacino has long emphasized the importance of focusing on the craft itself. As he once said,
“Forget the career, do the work. If you feel what you are doing is on line and you’re going someplace and you have a vision and you stay with it, eventually things will happen.”
—Al Pacino, Actor. His devotion to working with purpose is clear not only in his performances but also in the way that he engages with art and music. Pacino consistently seeks out works that spark conversations about difficult issues, particularly those that contribute to progress within society.
‘You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught’: A Song with Lasting Impact
Al Pacino’s favourite song, ‘You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught,’ was written by the legendary duo Rodgers and Hammerstein and made its debut in the 1949 musical, South Pacific. The reason Pacino connects so strongly to this song lies in its direct and passionate commentary on social issues. He once said,
Image of: Al Pacino
“It was a crucial time for our country’s history with the racial tension. The song has a real passion and a relevance to the times we were living in,”
—Al Pacino, Actor. Its message about equality and the dangers of learned prejudice resonated during an era of heightened racial tension across the United States.
A Musical Challenging Societal Norms
The storyline of South Pacific centers on a blossoming romance between a nurse and a reserved Frenchman stationed on a remote island during World War II. While the production was initially marketed with playful catchphrases such as
“In the thrilling tradition of ‘Around the World in 80 Days’”
—Marketing Tagline and
“The entertainment world’s most wonderful entertainment!”
—Marketing Tagline, its true significance lay in addressing divisive themes through music. The song’s opening lyric,
“You’ve got to be taught to hate and fear”
—Hammerstein, Lyricist, was especially bold for its time.
Public Reception and Historical Backlash
Although many in the public embraced the song’s message, the track was not without controversy. Upon its release, its candid discussion of race led to it being deemed inappropriate by some for inclusion in a musical, notably resulting in a ban in Georgia, where critics alleged it contained
“an underlying philosophy inspired by Moscow”
—Legislator, Georgia. This Cold War-era accusation, claiming foreign influence, was seen by many as a way to justify suppressing uncomfortable social commentary.
One legislator went so far as to assert,
“a song justifying interracial marriage was implicitly a threat to the American way of life.”
—Legislator, Georgia. The backlash against the track only underscored the necessity of its message and heightened its cultural importance. Despite the uproar, the masses celebrated the music, as demonstrated by the soundtrack’s record-breaking run atop album charts and its enduring popularity.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Defiance and Pacino’s Admiration
In the face of criticism, Rodgers and Hammerstein chose not to bow to pressure, keeping ‘You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught’ at the heart of South Pacific’s narrative. Their unwavering stance against censorship is a quality that has commanded Pacino’s respect for decades, inspiring his own approach to both acting and life. For Pacino, the song is a clear example of art’s power to challenge and inspire, leading him to call it his favourite song since he first heard it.
Legacy of a Song and Its Enduring Influence
Al Pacino’s connection to ‘You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught’ illustrates how art and music can drive important social conversations, push boundaries, and leave a lasting impact on both individuals and society. Pacino’s admiration for the purposeful message in this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic continues to shape his outlook, reminding audiences why music and performance remain vital tools for progress and reflection.
