Many moons ago, the first episode I wrote on “Happy Days” was where Potsie (Anson Williams) was struggling for an upcoming biology test on the circulatory system, and Fonzie suggested to write a song about the circulatory system to remember it easier.
Ron Howard, Henry Winker and the cast all sang “Pumps Your Blood,” with everyone playing beakers and other ‘instruments’ from the classroom. We had a blast — and it was a big hit in the ratings.
A few days before that, I played the song I wrote for Anson in his dressing room. He looked me in the eyes and said, “Over his dead body I’m singing that thing on national television.”
None of us would have guessed the song would take on its own life; as the American Heart Association Theme, as an award-winning commercial for St. Joseph’s Aspirin, in the “Waiting for Superman” documentary, and with grammar school to college students making countless videos to remember the circulatory system.
Anson called a few days ago.
He said little kids are anxious about this virus — and need to feel empowered. To be comforted to see a path. He suggested that I write new words to this song.
I wrote “I’m Gonna Wash My Hands,” Anson sang the vocal at his house – and we put together a video…
I hope you share it with some fabulous kids & parents you know!
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