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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
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.
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,503 posts
 
For me I really enjoy Jack Black and Kyle Gass of Tenacious D. To me the Rise of the Phoenix album sounded great and I just couldn't stop enjoying the music and laughing. If you can't smile while listening to the song Roadie or 39 there is something wrong with you.
martykl
3,578 posts
 
Oddly, there's a Kid Creole thread directly above this one. In my book, the Kid is THE master of funny lyrics. Check out "I'm a Wonderful thing, Baby" or "No More Casual Sex" to start. Then try "Haiti" or "Endicott". It's really ongoing musical theater and very very funny at times.

Marty
chayro
2,938 posts
 
Steely Dan doesn't take itself too seriously? Becker and Fagen can compete with the most self-important people I could ever imagine. Maybe Fagen has changed because he's pushing 70, but back in the day, he never struck me as a person who thought his music was anything but the most profound sh!t to ever hit the planet. Not that it wasn't good stuff. But humor?
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