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We’re getting ready to two-step with our little ones! The Wiggles are bringing a fresh new sound to family music. The iconic Australian children's group, known for their vibrant performances and catchy tunes, have just released a country music album, Wiggle Up, Giddy Up!, adding a playful twang to their beloved singalongs. With toe-tapping rhythms, banjo-filled melodies and plenty of fun lyrics, this latest release is definitely going to have you and the kids bouncing around the living room.
Whether it's a hoedown-inspired dance track or a gentle lullaby with a country twist, this album brings something fresh to children's entertainment. So, grab your cowboy hats and boots, The Wiggles are ready to take families on a musical adventure like never before!
In celebration of this new album, we caught up with Red Wiggle, Caterina Mete. While being a Wiggle is fun and exciting, it’s also a full-time job. For Caterina, it comes with the challenge of balancing life on the road with being a mum. We caught up with her to find out how she manages work, parenting and everything in between.
After five years, The Wiggles will return to the UK with their brand-new Bouncing Balls Tour. The tour will include all eight Wiggles including OG Blue Wiggle Anthony, Simon, Lachy, Tsehay, John, Lucia and Evie. Plus, all our Wiggly friends, including Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus, Captain Feathersword and TikTok sensation The Tree of Wisdom. In preparation for the tour, Caterina reflects on what it’s like touring as a mum of twin girls.
"They say it takes a village, and it truly does," says Caterina. "I am so lucky to have such a wonderful family who help me out! My sister is my girl's nanny! She will be on tour with us through the UK this year, which will be wonderful to be on the road all together."
Mum life, parenting surprises and touring
As we know, parenting is full of rewards, such as the baby’s first smile, witnessing baby's first step, and when your little one falls asleep in your arms, there’s no feeling like it. This warm and fuzzy feeling just seemingly beams out of Caterina. "I think the love I feel from my babies is something I have never felt before, it really is the best feeling in the world! I am also quite surprised I am getting sleep! Lots of people told me you won’t get a good night's sleep for years, but thankfully, both my girls enjoy their sleep just like their Mama."
Since becoming a mum, Caterina, who has completed a degree in early childhood education, has been able to connect with her younger fans and their parents on a deeper level. "Motherhood has connected me more authentically with the parents in our audience," explains Caterina. "I now understand how special The Wiggles are for all the families, I see it first hand at my place! We are listening to The Wiggles all day."
As many of us know, working away from home can be challenging. However, Caterina finds a way to maintain a balance. "I miss my babies when I have to travel without them on occasion. We FaceTime a lot, and I watch lots of videos on my phone of them, which always puts a smile on my face."
The Wiggles tour: A fun-filled show for the whole family
The Wiggles’ Bouncing Balls Tour promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans. Caterina shares, "Our tour is filled with so many exciting moments! Without giving too much away, the show is a family show that all ages will enjoy. There will be classic Wiggle songs, new songs, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, all our friends and literally bouncing balls!"
So, whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time attendee, this show is set to deliver non-stop fun, music, and, of course, lots of dancing. And while The Wiggles perform all over the world, Caterina has noticed something special about UK audiences, "I find that because the audiences in the UK are brought up in a pantomime culture, they seem to be very responsive and vocal."
Touring with children can be an adventure in itself! When asked about must-visit spots in the UK, Caterina tells us, "I love driving through the gorgeous countryside in the UK and visiting all the towns along the way. My girls will still be quite little; however, they do love car trips! If time permits, I would love to take them to Chester Zoo."
Caterina on working with country legends like Dolly and Dasha
According to Caterina, The Wiggles’ shift towards country music unravelled an exciting opportunity to introduce children to the rich storytelling and uplifting melodies that country music offers. Caterina herself is a big fan of the genre and believes it’s a great way for kids to engage in role-play, whether it’s dressing up in cowboy hats and boots or riding a stick horse while dancing along to the music.
One of the most thrilling parts of the album was collaborating with country legends, including the iconic Dolly Parton and rising star Dasha. Caterina shared her excitement about working with Dasha, describing her as a creative force who brought fresh energy to the project. She also reflected on the surreal experience of recording a song with Dolly, something she never imagined happening in her career.
Beyond the star-studded collaborations, the album also highlights Australian artists, an essential touch for The Wiggles as they celebrate their home roots and showcase local talent. By incorporating uniquely Aussie songs and stories, the group create a unique musical experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Caterina’s love for Dolly and parenting inspiration
Music plays a massive role in shaping childhood memories. As a lifelong fan, Caterina’s admiration for Dolly runs deep, so much so that she named one of her daughters after her and even has a tattoo in her honour. "I absolutely adore Dolly Parton, ever since I was a young child. I love her voice, her songs, and her bright and happy personality," she shares. "When I listen to her music, it always puts a smile on my face. She is the country music Queen in my eyes."
Dolly’s music also serves as a powerful reminder of the joy that motherhood brings. When asked which song best represents her life, Caterina chose Highlight of My Life, a track that resonates deeply with her as a mum. "When I hear it, I think of my girls. They make me smile and are my everything, they are the highlight of my life!" she says. Like Dolly’s uplifting music, Caterina’s journey as a mother and performer is filled with love, warmth, and an undeniable appreciation for the little moments that make parenting special.
Families will love the latest album
One of the standout tracks on Wiggle Up, Giddy Up! is a playful remake of Dolly’s iconic song 9 to 5, cleverly transformed into Counting 1 to 5. "The original is such an iconic song that most grown-ups have heard and probably can’t help but sing along to," says Caterina. "Our version is a song that helps children count in a fun way, and I think parents will love singing it with them too!"
The new album has already been a hit with listeners of all ages, including those close to Caterina. "The Dasha song Wiggle Up, Giddy Up has been a huge hit! I have friends who don’t even have children who love the song!"
Caterina’s family has also connected with the new album, particularly her daughters Dolly and Gigi, who have a soft spot for anything featuring Dorothy the Dinosaur. "The girls love listening to all Wiggles songs, but at the moment, they are loving anything with Dorothy the Dinosaur in it, so the song Friends of Dorothy is on repeat in our household!"
With such a fun mix of songs, The Wiggles’ new album Wiggle Up, Giddy Up! (out March 7) is sure to be a hit in homes everywhere, keeping both kids and parents dancing and singing along!