The Wiggles have released their 63rd studio album, Wiggle Up, Giddy Up!, a lively country-inspired collection of songs that promises fun for the whole family. The album, which was released on March 7, blends the group’s signature playful energy with the storytelling traditions of country music, making for a unique and exciting listening experience.  

One of the most talked-about tracks on the album is ‘Friends of Dorothy’, a collaboration with masked country star Orville Peck. The song is a playful and affectionate nod to the LGBTQ+ community, featuring cheeky lyrics that have caught the attention of adult listeners as well as children. And the title is no coincidence.

In an interview with The Guardian, the original Blue Wiggle revealed that many people used to ask the group if they were “friends of Dorothy” whilst they were touring. Oblivious to the queer coded language, the group always responded enthusiastically believing they were referencing Dorothy The Dinosaur.

The phrase “friend of Dorothy” has long been used as a discreet way for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly queer men, to identify each other without fear of persecution. The origins of the term are widely believed to be linked to Dorothy Gale, the beloved protagonist of The Wizard of Oz.

In the song, The Wiggles embrace this connection with lyrics such as, “Dorothy, what’s the tea?/You’re a special friend to me,” sung in Simon Wiggle’s deep bass-baritone. Peck then joins in with what might be the most delightfully camp lyric ever featured in a children’s song: “Well, I’d heard that dinosaurs were fierce, but Dorothy girl, you are fierce!” 

The album also boasts two guest appearances from country music legend Dolly Parton, who lends her unmistakable voice to ‘Friends!’ and ‘We Will Always Be Friends’, two thematically linked songs celebrating friendship and togetherness.  

Dasha, one of the rising stars of country music, leads the album’s title track, ‘Wiggle Up, Giddy Up!’, a high-energy anthem designed for family singalongs and even a bit of line dancing fun.  

“This is one of the most exciting projects we’ve ever been part of,” said Wiggles co-founder Anthony Field. “Country music is all about storytelling and connection, and combining that with The Wiggles’ fun and imagination felt like the perfect match. We can’t wait for families everywhere to hear these songs!”