Poor Little Pluto

You've probably heard about it by now. On August 24, 2006, the general assembly of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) gathered in Prague to vote on, among other things, the definition of a planet. The result of this vote is that our ninth planet, Pluto, was reclassified as a "dwarf planet." Not so fast, IAU. Less than 5% of the world's astronomers voted on this decision, which is hardly a consensus. And it's drawing plenty of fire from folks who say the science behind this decision won't fly. In fact, many planetary scientists and astronomers from JPL to NASA to major universities are refusing to use the definition. It sounds like they're hoping to reverse the decision, but the IAU can't do much about it until their general assembly reconvenes in 2009.

So what's a songwriter to do? Write an emotional, non-scientific song about it! "Poor Little Pluto" doesn't attempt to answer the question of planet-hood for Pluto, but takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the issue and declares "You're still a planet in my heart."

Should you decide to perform this song in concert, the synthy and ethereal intro will give your singers plenty of time to get onstage. Measure 1 begins where the beat begins, with a synth bass line and hi-hat driving the piece (about 24 seconds into the track).

The vocals have some syncopation to them, especially at the chorus, but the song is still very singable. Part 2 makes the tune a call and response in the second ending, but it's optional.

This is one of those tunes where the stage can be dark, and a black light can be used to create a space-y vibe for your performance. Paint a picture of Pluto with fluorescent paint on a poster board, and hold it up during the chorus. It'll really stand out in the black light! Or if you're really ambitious, have a backdrop painted like the solar system, including our sun and all the planets - especially Pluto!