Rainbow Connection (1979) 2/19/21 Kermit the Frog

Anyone remember the Oscar-winning song from 1978?

For the record, it was "It Goes Like It Goes" by Jennifer Warnes, from the movie Norma Rae (starring Sally Field).

Not a BAD song, mind you (see the link below), but in my opinion, there was a much better choice: a "Great Song of the '70s" written by Paul Williams and Kenneth Ascher from a film that has become a classic for children of all ages: "The Muppet Movie!"

This was the first--but certainly not the last--time that Jim Henson sang "It Ain't Easy Being Green," and although he wasn't much of a singer, he was in a class by himself as a Muppeteer. (He created them, after all!)

Jim certainly knew how to make Kermit the Frog exude the wistfulness and longing the song required, both physically and vocally.

Critics compared the song and Kermit's performance to "Over the Rainbow" and Judy Garland as far as impact and effectiveness in character development. In other words, the song "drives" the plot. Paul Williams has stated that there's also a not-so-hidden message: "There's power in your thoughts."

The song peaked at #25 on the Hot 100...and has become a classic recorded by nearly two dozen artists, including Judy Collins, The Carpenters, Kenny Loggins, Willie Nelson, Jason Mraz, The Dixie Chicks, Johnny Mathis, Gwen Stefani, etc...etc...

But more importantly, the song has been used quite effectively for several children's charities, especially the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

"It Ain't Easy Being Green:" It didn't win the Oscar, but it won the hearts of millions. It's a "Great Song of 1979," and of all time!

Kermit the Frog (Jim Henson):

"It Goes Like It Goes" (Oscar Winner of 1979/Jennifer Warnes)