I'm a Big Girl Now (song)

"I'm a Big Girl Now" is a song that has appeared in multiple contexts, primarily within musical theatre and popular culture. It is often used to depict a character's transition from childhood to adulthood, or a declaration of independence and newfound maturity.

The most well-known version of the song is likely the one featured in the Broadway musical Hairspray. In Hairspray, "I'm a Big Girl Now" is performed by Tracy Turnblad, Penny Pingleton, Amber Von Tussle, and their mothers, Edna Turnblad, Prudy Pingleton, and Velma Von Tussle, respectively. The song is a comedic ensemble piece that highlights the different perspectives on what it means to be a "big girl," showcasing both the excitement and anxieties associated with growing up. The lyrics touch upon themes of fashion, boys, and changing relationships with parents.

Beyond Hairspray, the phrase "I'm a Big Girl Now" or variations thereof may appear in other musicals, plays, television shows, and films. In such instances, the song's purpose remains largely consistent: to musically illustrate a character's burgeoning independence or a significant shift in their life stage. The song's tone can vary depending on the context, ranging from celebratory and empowering to sarcastic and apprehensive. The interpretation of what constitutes being a "big girl" is often explored within the lyrics and performance.