Guilt Free Friday

It seems like you can't go anywhere these days without seeing Zac Efron, his real life gal pal Vanessa Hudgens and the rest of the gang from the ridiculously successful High School Musical series plastered all over the place. From billboards and posters to print and television interviews, these kids are EVERYWHERE. Disney has orchestrated its greatest teen invasion to date and as a parent who is always on the lookout for fun and interesting ways to incorporate music into my daughter's life, I have to admit that I'm grateful.

I won't deny that I was reluctant to post about this tween sensation. After all, a musical for children is totally cheesy. However, after being subjected to both films and their accompanying soundtracks hundreds of times at the hands of my 7 year old, I've come to realization that I'm hooked on the kids in the cast, the music and the messages conveyed as much as she is and that's alright...it's a good thing to share. I'm so enamored with the brand that I was even persuaded to hold a watch party/sleepover earlier this month when the second film aired. It was loads of fun for the kids and the adults and we all loved every minute of it.

The marketing machine that is Disney has hit a home run this time and I just hope that this era of young Hollywood follows in fellow Disney alum Justin Timberlake's footsteps and steers clear of the perilous path to a total train wreck that Britney Spears has chosen. It's a fine line to walk but if these kids follow the advice of the first film and keep their heads in the game then they could all potentially have long, prosperous careers in the business.

So, without further adieu, I give you my favorite track from the second film by lovebirds Efron and Hudgens...

Zac Efron & Vanessa Hudgens - "You Are the Music in Me"

And the video for good measure because these two are seriously adorable:



And from the other musical that stole our hearts this summer, "Hairspray", Zac Efron's version of "Ladies' Choice".

Zac Efron - "Ladies' Choice"