Not a Pretty Girl is the title song from Ani DiFranco's 1995 album. In it, DiFranco insists on being more than a beautiful woman and refuses to play the socially acceptable role of a damsel in need of rescue. Her emphasis on the importance of a person being what they do rather than their physical beauty is a powerful message, even many years later. This message is carried throughout the entire album, but is particularly strong in this track.
DiFranco has frequently been nominated for awards for her album packaging design. While this album was not nominated, it is one of the first in which she experimented with design as part of the message of the album; Not a Pretty Girl's cover is designed to be looked at the "wrong way up", with the CD spine on the right hand side rather than the left.
Notes for Parents: DiFranco is justifiably celebrated for her songwriting, but this song, like several of her others, has a very aggressive tone, making it most suitable for girls 12 and up. That said, this song contains no profanity or suggestive dialogue. The video is not an official video; it is a fan-made video featuring the cover image from the album.
Lyrical Notes: none. Video Notes: none.
Album | Not a Pretty Girl |
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Artist | Ani Difranco |
Duration | 3:55 |
Release Date | Jul 1, 1995 |
Genre | Folk, Pop / Rock |
Music Themes | Body Image, Individuality/ Independence, Inspirational, Self Worth / Confidence, Social Issues, Strength / Courage, Women's Rights / Equality |
Label | Righteous Babe |
Recommended Age | 12 and up |