About the song
John Denver’s It Makes Me Giggle. A delightful ditty, wouldn’t you say? Released in 1976 on his album Spirit, this song offers a glimpse into the lighter side of Denver’s repertoire, a stark contrast to his more well-known anthems about nature and social consciousness.
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John Denver, a titan of folk music in the latter half of the 20th century, was known for his earnest vocals, relatable lyrics, and genuine stage presence. While songs like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Rocky Mountain High” cemented his image as a champion of the American landscape, It Makes Me Giggle showcases a different facet – the pure, unadulterated joy of fatherhood.
The song is a burst of unbridled happiness. Denver’s signature folksy guitar sets the scene, punctuated by a playful harmonica. The lyrics themselves are refreshingly simple, devoid of complex metaphors or philosophical ponderings. Instead, Denver focuses on the everyday moments of joy that come with having children.
It Makes Me Giggle isn’t a profound ballad, nor is it a commentary on the complexities of parenthood. It’s a celebration. Denver sings about the uncontrollable giggles that erupt when his “baby” is around, the way a grumpy morning can be chased away by a child’s love, as sweet “as candy.” He describes the physical manifestations of his joy – the wiggling, the jumping – a delightful display of uninhibited happiness rarely seen in more stoic genres.
This lightheartedness extends to the second verse, where the focus shifts to his “little boy child.” Denver paints a picture of a child who instinctively knows how to make his father happy, simply by calling him “Daddy” and offering his love. The line “If I ever felt better I can’t seem to recall” is a testament to the overwhelming joy that fatherhood brings.
It Makes Me Giggle isn’t without its sentimentality. The bridge features a plea for universal joy, urging the listener to “giggle” and “wiggle” along. Denver suggests that spreading this simple happiness could encompass the entire human race, a utopian vision that aligns with his optimistic outlook on life.
The song concludes by bringing the focus back to the act of singing love songs, an act that brings Denver immense pleasure. The final line, “There ain’t nothing that I’d rather do,” is a powerful statement, highlighting the simple joys that often get overlooked in life’s grander narratives.
It Makes Me Giggle may not be John Denver’s most critically acclaimed work, but it holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s a reminder of the simple, unadulterated joy that comes with love, family, and the pure, infectious laughter of children.
