If you can't read the preamble to the United States Constitution without singing it, then you are of the generation that knew Bob Dorough. At least you knew his work, if not his name.
Mr. Dorough was one of the most important writers/musicians of the Schoolhouse Rock video series which, back in the day, came on between regular cartoons on Saturday mornings. Kids watched 20-some-odd minutes of Bugs Bunny, then were mesmerized by three-minute videos explaining interjections, how to multiply by eight, or why the United States wanted its independence from England. (No more kings!)
Bob Dorough wrote some of the best. For best examples, "The Shot Heard Round the World," "Lolly Lolly Lolly (Get Your Adverbs Here)," most of the multiplication songs, and our favorite and probably yours, "Conjunction Junction."
Mr. Dorough died this week. It was national news. For good reason.
A generation learned grammar, math and social studies through his wonderful work. RIP, Bob Dorough.
Editorial on 04/26/2018