I Started Out as a Child cover

I Started Out as a Child

Bill Cosby · 1964

30 min · 15 tracks

A playful collection of comedic vignettes that reflect childhood experiences with sharp wit and engaging storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Lone Ranger — This track stands out for its clever use of nostalgia and innovative storytelling, capturing the essence of childhood imagination while showcasing Cosby's unique comedic style.
  • →
    Street Football — In this brief yet vivid sketch, Cosby evokes the carefree spirit of childhood games, painting a lively picture that resonates with anyone who remembers playing outside.
  • →
    My Pet Rhinoceros — This comedic bit cleverly plays with absurdity, blending fantasy with humor to highlight the boundless creativity of children's imaginations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

Cosby's storytelling and humor create a relatable yet distinctive comedic experience.

What we noticed

  • The album consists of 15 tracks, each presenting a distinct comedic vignette that explores various childhood experiences.
  • Cosby's delivery features a conversational style, often breaking the fourth wall to engage directly with the audience.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • quick bursts of humor
  • nostalgic childhood anecdotes
  • light-hearted storytelling charm
  • for casual listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of deep narratives
  • prefer longer, immersive content

Where this album fits

Career context
By 1964, Bill Cosby had transitioned from a successful stand-up comedian to a prominent figure in television and film. 'I Started Out as a Child' was his first comedy album after gaining national recognition through his role on 'I Spy,' marking a significant period in his evolving career.
Stylistic neighbors
George Carlin· Richard Pryor· Eddie Murphy

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Sneakers 1:56
  • 2 Street Football 1:21
  • 3 The Water Bottle 0:50
  • 4 Christmas Time 1:43
  • 5 The Giant 2:28
  • 6 Oops! 0:58
  • 7 The Lone Ranger 3:07
  • 8 Ralph Jameson 1:53
  • 9 Medic 3:45
  • 10 My Pet Rhinoceros 0:45
  • 11 Half Man 0:46
  • 12 Rigor Mortis 2:47
  • 13 The Neanderthal Man 3:15
  • 14 T.V. Football 1:13
  • 15 Seattle 3:48

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata