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Humor In Music

I've always liked bands who display a sense of humor in their music. Warren Zevon and Steely Dan appeal to me largely because they don't take themselves too seriously. But when it comes to the master of comedy in lyrics it has to be Frank Zappa. I listened to his "Apostrophe" album last night and found myself laughing out loud at some of the songs. The lyrics in Cosmik Debris, Uncle Remus and Dinah-Moe-Humm are like a stand-up comedy routine set to music. If you're looking to put a smile on your face, just fire up some of your Zappa collection!
danoroo
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,464 posts
 
Genesis often displayed a whimsical sense of humor in their music (Phil Collins especially so, particularly on-stage).

Another lesser known British progressive rock band that incorporated subtle humor as an element of many of their best works is Caravan, still one of my all time favorite bands.

Also the Mael brothers from Sparks have to get a mention in this conversation.
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almarg
9,670 posts
 
Some notable satires of ...

Doo Wop: "Who Put The Bomp?" (Barry Mann)

Michael Jackson: "Eat It" ("Weird Al" Yankovic)

Classical: "The Unbegun Symphony" (P.D.Q. Bach, aka Professor Peter Schickele)

Regards,
-- Al :-)
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mapman
22,464 posts
 
Amongst his many popular attributes, Johnny Cash often demonstrated a fantastic sense of humor. The unique thing about him was his ability to establish a special connection to so many in so many different ways. Humor was just one of the ways.
danoroo OP
239 posts
 
@ Tostadosunidos

You are correct sir, "We're Only In It For The Money" is sheer genius. And, you must be pretty good to play Zappa stuff. No slouches in his bands.
maxnewid
449 posts
 
Zappa and Zevon are two of the great humorists. I think that Pete Townshend's lyrics are full of funny double-entendres. Try singing the innocent chorus of "Squeezebox" going "in and out and in and out" and "playing all night" without a smile. Of course Pete is only describing a Mother's musical instrument. Nick Cave and Stan Ridgeway also have great lyrics.
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