He’s quite the sweet talker, that Mel Gibson -- a real hopeless romantic. Make that just hopeless. Jews, Blacks, Hispanics, Gays, Women --is there anyone this guy likes? To his credit, he is totally unbiased in his prejudices. An equal opportunity hater. Clearly, Mel has some issues. Still, I could never imagine someone getting that upset over not getting a blow job, and believe me -- I’ve not gotten plenty of blow jobs…
WARNING: THIS PARODY CONTAINS FREQUENT USE OF THE WORD BLOW JOB, #$@%^!, &#*&@!! AND OTHER LANGUAGE THEY HAVEN’T INVENTED TYPEWRITER KEYS FOR YET.
Everyone’s favorite racist, anti-Semitic, homophobic,misogynist,holocaust-denying Hollywood superstar is at it again. Hear a musical blow by blow account of Mel Gibson’s latest antics, inspired by actual excerpts from his rants. Written & Produced by: Bruce Hopman Vocals by: Ross Hopman Recorded at JSM Music, NYC
Two questions come to mind when I watch MTV’s “Jersey Shore.” Why am I watching this? And why can’t I stop watching this? As if New Jersey hasn’t been maligned enough already, did the Garden State really need this? Not exactly a promotional video for the Tourism Department, is it? And to make matters worse, most of the cast isn’t even from Jersey!! Well, I am from Jersey. So I’m allowed to make fun Jersey. You are not. Unless you’re from there. That’s just the way it works. Hey, I don’t make the rules... A musical parody tribute to the show you love to hate. Or hate to love. Or both. If you thought there wasn’t anything left to make fun of New Jersey about, think again! Set to the music of a song made popular by none other than “The Boss.” Written & Produced by: Bruce Hopman Vocals by: Ross Hopman Recorded at JSM Music, NYC
I guess it’s pretty boring being the greatest golfer in the world, earning millions upon millions, and being the most recognizable face on the planet. You need to spice things up. Add a little excitement to your life. You know, you need some – transgressions. It seems Tiger was so busy transgressing, you gotta wonder -- how did this guy have time to play golf!?!? Obviously, this is a PR nightmare for Tiger. He even had to cancel participation in his own charity tournament. Well, at least he knows when to pull out…
It’s Tiger’s tale set to music. Follow the singing saga of “The World’s Greatest Swinger.” You never know where you’ll find Tiger’s wood next! Written & Produced by: Bruce Hopman Vocals by: Ross Hopman Recorded at JSM Music, NYC
It looks like the battle over healthcare reform is winding down. Soon we’ll have a bill. Well, that went smoothly. Just like we learned in Civics class. Except for all the screaming and yelling. And misinformation. And finger pointing. If there’s one thing we learned from healthcare reform it’s that we need some serious lobbying reform. All the money that was spent on those pro-reform and anti-reform ads that flooded the airwaves could’ve insured countless people. But who knows. Maybe what they say is true: “Laughter is the best medicine.” In that case, we need a “Parody Option.” Everyone is eligible. No forms to fill out. And unlike your current health plan, our parodies are free – no co-pay required…
See your favorite political heavy-hitters fight it out over healthcare reform – Kung Fu style!! After months of healthcare bickering and bitterness, this musical parody is just what the doctor ordered.
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Audio Engineer: Jeff Vacca Produced and recorded at JSM Music, NYC
This was hardly “The Summer of Love.” It seems everywhere you looked, people were crossing the line. Take Glenn Beck. Please. First he calls the President a socialist, a communist, a facist and a racist. Then as if that wasn’t enough name-calling, he throws in the N word. No, not that one. A Nazi. And just when you thought you knew where the line was, it moved even further. It’s no longer enough for Medicaire and Medicaid recipients to show up at Town Hall meetings ranting and raving about how they don’t want the government involved in health care. Now you have to show up with a gun! Is anyone really surprised that some of that Town Hall ‘tude found it’s way into Congress!?! When Rep. Joe Wilson lost it in a special joint session of congress, I thought maybe we’d seen it all. Then Serena Williams had an epic meltdown at the U.S. Open. And while I was waiting for one last act of outrageous behavior so I could finish my parody, the very next day Kayne West has yet another one of his tantrums at yet another award show. Throw in the ongoing saga of Gov.Mark Sanford and the unethical conduct of Michael Jackson’s doctor, and they can make beautiful music together…
Some of the most outrageous behavior of the last few months comes together in one outburst-packed musical parody. It’s the “Best of the Worst,” all set to the music of Johnny Cash -- no stranger to crossing the line himself.
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Music Edit: Blast, NYC
When the Guantanamo Bay Tourism Board approached me to help promote the Guantanamo Bay detention facility as a world-class resort destination, I jumped at the opportunity. Politics aside, this is a prime piece of Caribbean real estate. Oceanfront property ain’t cheap, and we are in the midst of a financial crisis. I figured there must me something we can do to cash in. Maybe we turn it into a landmark destination? Like Alcatraz. Or a resort zone? You know, like Cancun. Or how about a Vegas-style theme hotel like Ceasar’s Palace? This way we can keep all the orange jumpsuits. Guantanamo Bay Hotel & Casino. That actually has a nice ring to it. Sure, they all laughed when Bugsy Siegel had the dream of turning an isolated patch of dessert into a gambling Mecca, but who’s laughing now? (Okay, maybe that wasn’t the best example since he was shot to death, but you get the point.) When they normalize relations with Cuba, we’ll see who’s laughing. To make sure people take this seriously (we wouldn’t want people to think this is joke!!) we even have a website:
But there’s much more work to be done. Currently, we have plans to convert all interrogation cells into more guest-friendly “Chat Rooms.” And we’re re-thinking our check-out policy. Of course, I’m counting on my friends in the ad world to vote in the slogan poll, or come up with your own. Like any good ex-ad man, if you come up with the winning theme I will gladly take credit for it…
The Guantanamo Bay Tourism Board invites you to visit the most exclusive island getaway in the world. Experience our warm Cuban sun, cool Caribbean breezes and world infamous CIA hospitality.
Yes, I watch American Idol. I watch, but I don’t vote. If I did, I’d cast mine for Danny. He reminds me of Michael McDonald, and I always liked the Doobie Brothers. Kris is a nice guy, but I didn’t even know his name until there were only five contestants left. Idols should be more memorable than that. Adam is certainly unforgettable, but the high-pitched scream thing really bothers me. I guess it’s fine when he’s singing just one song, but I can’t imagine hearing that song after song after song. But what do I know? I’m no judge. As for them… do I think Simon is a pompous ass? Sure, and he gets really bad hair cuts. But I also think his comments are usually dead on. Randy is pretty good. I really like Cara. I think she gives great, constructive feedback. And I think she’s cute. And Paula? Well, I feel the same way about her as Anderson Cooper does. (In case you didn’t hear his comments on the Tonight Show, CLICK HERE.) I don’t mind that she’s a flake, but to get her to say anything negative about a contestant they’d have to sing as bad as ME. (Just because I can write songs, that doesn’t mean I can sing them. Trust me.)
SPECIAL NOTE: My daughter is a guest vocalist on this parody, so I guess this month we’re Parody & Son & Daughter…
Does Simon make your skin crawl? Does Paula make your head spin? Love ‘em or hate ‘em, the only thing more fun than judging American Idol contestants, is judging the judges!
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman, Allie Hopman
When I was thinking about what to say about taxes, I came across so many great quotes I figured I’d let others do the talking for once. Everyone knows what Benjamin Franklin said about death and taxes being the only certainties in life. But I like what Will Rogers said better: the only difference between death and taxes is that death doesn’t get worse every time Congress meets. While an unknown author said of life's two certainties, there’s only one for which you can get an automatic extension. Ronald Regan had a good one too. He said the taxpayer was someone who worked for the federal government, but didn’t have to take the Civil Service exam. Former Louisiana Senator Russell B. Long said a tax loophole is "something that benefits the other guy. If it benefits you, it is tax reform.'' And former Secretary of the Treasury William Simon said, “The nation should have a tax system that looks like someone designed it on purpose. “ This is good stuff. Albert Einstein said, “The hardest thing in the world to understand is the income tax.” How great is that!?! There’s an old Jewish proverb that says taxes are one of the only things that can grow without rain. Another unknown author said people who complain about taxes can be divided into two classes: men and women. But my favorite quote was attributed to another unknown author who said, ”Did you ever notice that when you put the words "THE" and "IRS" together, it spells "THEIRS?" I mean, I can write parodies, but this stuff is priceless… Why just complain about paying taxes when you can SING about complaining about paying taxes?!? Follow the tale of a typical taxpayer who tells the I.R.S. to K.M.A!! WARNING: DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME.
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Recorded at JSM Music, NY
You gotta love that OctoMom. Six kids at home, eight more in the hospital, and she still finds time to hire a publicist. And fire a publicist. And hire another publicist. And fire them, too. (The last one said, “She was nuts,” like you didn’t already know.) Of course, like all parents, now she’ll have to make sacrifices. She might have to get a job -- so she can maintain her Botox treatments. As for the calls to 9-1-1, I’m not saying anyone couldn’t misplace their kid now and then. But if she lost track when she had 6, what’s going to happen with 14!?!? It’s also been reported that Nadya hasn’t had sex in 8 years!! (Well, there’s something we both have in common.) The way I see it, it’ll be at least another 8 before she’s got a shot. With all those kids running around, she might not have time for dating…
She’s a mother of 14! She’s unemployed! She’s out of her mind! And now she’s the star of her own musical parody!! See “OctoMom” Nadya Suleman (as Angelina Jolie) in this cautionary tale of birth out-of-control. Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Recorded at JSM Music, NYC
WE’RE CELEBRATING OUR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!! It’s hard to believe it was just about one year ago that Elliot Spitzer dropped his drawers in a Washington Hotel room, and I found a new hobby. (That maybe doesn’t sound so good. I meant this whole musical parody thing.) My, how time flies when you’re making fun of people. Back then, Parody & Son was a two man operation working out of my study. Now, a full year later, I sometimes work out of my kitchen. But our commitment to creating classic capsules of current events (and my love for alliteration) remains the same. Our thanks to Elliot Spitzer, Sarah Palin, Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, the financial industry, the airline industry, the oil industry, Michael Phelps, O.J. Simpson, Rod Blagojevich, Jim McGreevey, A-Rod, Christie Brinkley, OctoMom, John McCain, and John McCain. (We really have to thank him more than once.) And of course, thanks to all the blog subscribers, FaceBook group members and HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of people who have viewed our parodies.
Looks like the “Baltimore Bullet” shot himself in the foot. Or maybe just stubbed his toe. His career is hardly up in smoke, and there’s clearly no need to demonize Michael Phelps. Of course, we can still make fun of him. In my opinion, the REAL bad guy is the creep that went public with the picture. (Then again, if it weren’t for creeps like him, creeps like ME wouldn’t have the chance to write parodies about Michael Phelps.) The bottom line is a superhuman swimmer reminded us all he’s really human after all. The good news is, now he can run for President!! In any case, there’s a lesson to be learned. Swimming is clearly a gateway sport to drugs. Parents, keep your kids out of the pool!!!
Hold onto your Speedo!! Olympic champion Michael Phelps is in hot water, and this musical parody takes a look at the scandal stroke for stroke, and toke for toke. (Special appearances by Bob Marley, Snoop Dogg, Paris Hilton, Willie Nelson, George Bush, Bill Clinton & Barack Obama.)
When it rains it pours ... I’m in the middle of working on my Holiday Parody, thinking it will be the last one in ’08, when BAM!! O.J. Simpson gets sentenced. The auto industry is on life support. And as if that’s not enough, this governor with really funny hair and an equally funny name gets busted for trying to sell a Senate seat!! Really!?! And it’s all happening at the same time!?! It’s the perfect parody storm. I actually started writing a Detroit parody, but it was really depressing. But Blago and O.J. – they’re pretty laughable. One in jail, the other likely on his way. How could I resist? BTW, you can’t imagine the images that turned up when I was Googling “Prison Bitch” and “Prison Shower.” Or maybe you can...
Rod Blagojevich and O.J. Simpson lead an all-star cast in this musical parody salute to famous felons. Take a look and we think you’ll agree -- what we do to this Elvis classic is criminal! Special appearances by: Paris Hilton, Michael Vick, Martha Stewart, Jon Stewart & David Letterman.
Lyrics: B. Hopman Vocals: R. Hopman Produced by: JSM Music, NYC
I’ll be the first to admit it: I have parking issues. Mall parking lots cause me stress on a good day. During the Holiday Season, it’s a friggin’ nightmare!!! It’s to the point where I won’t go anywhere near a mall from October until March!!! I share this with you for two reasons. First, I thought it would be appropriate at this time of year to do a Holiday-themed parody. Since this whole parking thing haunts me every year, I figured, “Why not sing about it?” (After all, it’s cheaper than therapy.) Secondly, I think it’s time to raise awareness about Parking Stress Syndrome. SEND THIS PARODY TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW!!! Together, we can find a cure. I’m sure I’m not the only one who suffers from this problem. Am I?....
‘Tis the season for overcrowded malls and packed parking lots. During this most joyous of seasons, we raise our voices in musical parody to celebrate this annual hellish Holiday nightmare. Looking for some “Peace on Earth” and “good will towards man?” Then don’t look here!!
Lyrics: B. Hopman Vocals: The JSM Choir Produced & Recorded by: JSM Music, NYC
Election ’08 really was the gift that keeps on giving. But now it’s over. Let the post-election parodies begin!! I would’ve posted this sooner but a) I had to go away for a week to the lesser-known Kitty Dukakis clinic to break my addiction to cable news which had grown to full-blown junkie status over the past year , and b) it took me all this time before I was convinced there wouldn’t be a recount. Now that it’s over, one final observation. .. I don’t know about you, but the last time I called a plumber to solve a problem, he had to come back three times ‘til he got it right. I’m not exactly sure how that translates politically other than I guess there are some Johns even a plumber can’t help…
The votes are all counted. The people have spoken. Now it’s time for Democrats and Republicans to reach across the aisle – and ring each others necks!!! This post election parody provides a musical review of Election ’08, and a look at the stormy seas ahead as we set sail on the bi-partisanship…
When I saw John McCain at Monday’s rally in Virginia Beach, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. It wasn’t anything negative. No smears or innuendo. Totally non-political. And something I would never expect him to brag about in public. Then again, at his age, I guess it is something to brag about. I’ll let you decide… (NOTE: This isn’t technically a parody, but I couldn’t resist. Call it parod-ic license. You should also know that even though this video features John McCain, it really isn’t partisan. If Barack Obama would’ve said what McCain said, I SWEAR I would’ve made the same video.) Special Appearance by Meg Ryan, who I used to have a big crush on before she did that thing to her lips.
John McCain said some VERY interesting things at his rally in Virginia Beach the other day…
The parody gods have been very good to me lately. Just when the Palin pandemonium started to die down and I was beginning to worry about finding a topic for my next parody, along comes a financial mega-meltdown. Am I the luckiest guy in the world, or what!?! I mean, financial institutions are going down faster than Sarah Palin’s poll numbers. It’s a parody gold-mine. Who would’ve ever seen this one coming? (Certainly not the President. Or congress. Or the Fed.) I’m no economics expert, but I do know this: they had better solve this crisis fast, because if I have to hear someone saying the Wall Street/Main Street thing one more time, my head’s going to explode. Enough already! We get it!! And EVERYONE’S saying it. Republicans. Democrats. In advertising, we would never use the same line as a competitor. I suppose it’s better than “You’re fucked,” but still --it’s almost as overused as “CHANGE.” Speaking of which, that’s my two cents on this whole mess which, coincidentally, is about the value of my 401K last time I checked…
The “Shock” Market is out of control. “Gall” Street is crumbling. Your savings have been 401KO’D. Just when you thought the economy has hit a low note, here comes a real chorus of gloom and doom. It won’t take a degree in economics to enjoy this musical parody. Just a degree of humor… (Special appearance by John McCain.)
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Music Edited by: Blast, NYC
Experience (or lack of it) aside, there’s certainly something different about the Republican VP nominee. I mean, she’s kinda hot. You know, in a Lynda Carter Wonder Woman-ish let down your hair and take off your glasses naughty librarian kind of way. Of course, I guess she really doesn’t have a lot of competition when you compare her to the likes of Joe Lieberman, Bob Dole, Bush the First or Geraldine Ferraro for that matter. Even though John Edwards was kinda cute. But I digress… Looks like Sarah Palin is turning into quite a star for the Republican party, dare I say – a celebrity (which until last week they said was a bad thing. But I guess it’s okay now.) She’s SO big, she even has her own music video…
A couple of years ago, she could get you out of a parking ticket in Wasilla, and now she’s on the Republican Presidential ticket!?! It may sound like the sequel to “Being There,” but this ain’t no movie! Sarah Palin stars in this real life rags-to-possible-riches musical parody. Co-starring Bill Maher.
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Music Edited by: Blast, NYC
I know things are bad for the airline industry. I understand they have to find any way they can to increase revenue. So when they started charging for meals and snacks, did I complain? No. Did I say anything when they started charging for baggage? Not a peep. I didn’t even gripe when they raised all the award levels and started charging extra for window and aisle seats. But when I heard that Jet Blue recently announced they were going to start charging for pillows, something had to be said – or sung. I mean, charging for pillows!?!? Really!?!? I wouldn’t let one of those germ infested drool collectors touch my head if they paid ME!!! Do they really think this will help increase profitability? I’d like to meet the person who’d pay $7 to rest their head on what is nothing more than a fabric covered Petrie dish. (With my luck, they’ll probably be in the seat next to me on my next flight!) I say just get rid of the pillows altogether, and we’ll all have more space in the overhead bins. But what do I know…
Fasten your seat belt. No-frills flying reaches new heights in this airline industry musical parody. It’s a different kind of in-flight entertainment that confirms what you already know – flying really IS for the birds! Forget about first class, business class or economy class. This video has NO class…
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Music Edited by: Blast, NYC
!!FORWARD TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAVORITE FREQUENT FLIERS!!
A-Rod does it. Hulk Hogan does it. Even Bill Belichick (no stranger to cheating) is getting in on the action!! While apparently the rest of the world has been busy getting busy, we’ve been busy documenting the recent (and no so recent) exploits of an alleged adulterers A-List. ..
An extra-marital musical parody, literally ripped from the headlines. It’s a tabloid treasure trove of alleged adulterers, featuring a cast of thousands – a veritable “Who’s Who” of who’s doing who. They may call it adultery, but there’s nothing adult about THIS video!
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Music Edited by: Blast, NYC
PARODY OUT-TAKES Not every lyric gets to make it into a Parody & Son parody. Each lyric is crafted by hand and must meet the highest (a.k.a. lowest) standards before it is selected. Here are some that didn’t make the cut:
“When you’re dropping your drawers with a wife that’s not yours…” “When you’re poking your rod, in some other girl’s bod…” “When you like the night life, but just not with your wife…”
Maybe you’d like to share a few? Send us an e-mail or leave a comment…
FORWARDING IS THE SINCEREST FORM OF FLATTERY... if you like what you see, pass it on!!
While it would’ve been a lot more fun searching images for an “Internet Porn” parody, the people have spoken, and John McCain has been declared the winner of the first 2008 Parody Poll. (You should know, however, I did come across some very disturbing McCain images which would’ve worked surprisingly well in an Internet Porn parody!!) As for those of you who didn’t vote at all, you are now stuck with the parody others have chosen and forfeit the right to complain about it. At least you won’t have to live with their decision for four years…
Does John McCain really have a bad temper? You bet your #!%$!#@!! a$$ he does!! They say music soothes the savage beast, but I don’t think everyone’s favorite septuagenarian presidential candidate will find this song very soothing…
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Music Edited by: Blast, NYC
If the high price of gas has you singing the blues, you're not alone. Here's a little ditty that will have you yearning for the good ol' days, when gas was just 3 bucks a gallon!!
The parody that asks the musical question, "How the hell is Hillary gonna pull this one off!?!?!" A comical commentary with a little bi-partisan bashing for everyone.
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Produced & Recorded at JSM Music, NYC
The Rev. Jeremiah Wright meets the New Kids on the Block. It's a marriage made in musical parody heaven. We never had sermons like this at my temple. (Maybe it's because we're reformed?)
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Vocals: Ross Hopman Produced & Recorded at JSM Music, NYC
Like a fine wine, the sex-capades of New Jersey's Ex-Governor just get better with age. Now with three-way sex!! A musical parody, in three-part harmony.
Lyrics: Bruce Hopman Produced & Recorded at JSM Music, NYC
Peter Frampton’s name is synonymous with two songs: "Baby I Love Your Way" and "Show Me the Way." They, along with "Do You Feel Like We Do," were the monster hits from his commercial breakthrough, Frampton Comes Alive, and both were originally... Read more at allmusic.com
“JERSEY GIRL” BY TOM WAITS (1980)
You probably know the Bruce Springsteen versions of this song, but Tom Waits was the composer of this romantic ballad from “Heart Attack & Vine.” Written for his wife-to-be at the time, Kathleen Brennan, who had been living in New Jersey, the lyrics are heartfelt, from the point of view of a smitten narrator about to abandon the bachelor life: "Got no time for the corner boys/Down in the street making all that noise/Don't want no whores on 8th Avenue/'Cause tonight I want to be with you." The "whores" line seems to be influenced, if only subconsciously by the Simon & Garfunkel line from "The Boxer": "Just a come-on from the whores on 7th Avenue." Thus, you still get the grit of the street, even in one of Waits’' most tender songs...
1982 was an interesting year for mainstream rock. Listeners were still a few years away from the chart-topping pop-metal bands and a few years removed from the oft-indulgent '70s rock era. As a result, people were left with an era that was mostly populated by bands that wore headbands and largely modeled their sound after Foreigner. In other words — bands that attempted to appeal to both the pop and rock audiences, by combining arena-worthy choruses and tough guitar riffs, topped off with a healthy scoop of melody. A perfect example would be Survivor, and their third release overall, Eye of the Tiger. With the group's first two releases barely causing a ripple on the charts, it was Tiger that catapulted the band to the top, thanks to the chart-topping title track, which was used as the theme song... Read more at allmusic.com
"KUNG FU FIGHTING" BY CARL DOUGLAS (1974)
Timing is important in pop music in so many ways. It's crucial that a pop song reflects its time so that it's relatable. Timing played an important role on so many levels with Carl Douglas' career-making gold single "Kung Fu Fighting." In spring 1974, London-based producer Biddu was looking for a singer to record a song by "Rhinestone Cowboy" songwriter Larry Weiss. He remembered a singer that he'd worked with on the soundtrack of the Richard Roundtree movie Ecstasy.He thought that Jamaica-born singer Carl Douglas would be just right for "I Want to Give You My Everything." With the Weiss song recorded and pegged for the A-side, Biddu wondered what the B-side would be. He asked Douglas if he had any original songs. Out of the five songs the singer sang off the top of his head, the producer picked "Kung Fu Fighting." It was recorded with the karate chop-related "hoo"s and "haaas"s with the remaining studio time they had... Read more at allmusic.com
"I WALK THE LINE" BY JOHNNY CASH (1957)
A stark, desolate declaration of eternal love that at times seems to border on dangerous obsession, "I Walk the Line" made Johnny Cash a star in the summer of 1956 — not only on the country front, where the Man in Black had prevailed ever since his Sun Records debut, "Cry! Cry! Cry!," the previous autumn, and its follow-ups "So Doggone Lonesome" and "Folsom Prison Blues" — but on the pop hit parade too, where the country & western chart-topper made a very impressive number 17 showing on Billboard's lists. "I Walk the Line" convincingly announced the arrival of a new and unique talent whose deep, sincere vocal style and unusually sparse band accompaniment from the Tennessee Two (guitarist Luther Perkins' rudimentary lead fills ... Read more at allmusic.com
What Should Our New Slogan Be?
“Kokomo” by The Beach Boys (1983)
You probably know it best from the 1988 release on the "Cocktail" soundtrack...and that video with John "Uncle Jesse" Stamos! The "Kokomo" single backed with "Tutti Frutti" by Little Richard was first released through Elektra Records in July 1988. It peaked at the #1 position on the Billboard charts on November 5, 1988 after knocking out "A Groovy Kind of Love" by Phil Collins. This meant that it was The Beach Boys' first #1 hit in the United States since "Good Vibrations" in 1966, making it the longest time span between two number one hits in America for a band (22 years). It is also their only #1 hit not written or produced by Brian Wilson. After spending just one week at the top of the charts, the single was knocked out of the number one spot by The Escape Club song "Wild, Wild West". After being signed to Capitol Records following the success of the initial single, Capitol clearly tried to take advantage of the song's popularity by issuing the song... Read more at Wikipedia
“Hey Paula” by Paul & Paula (1962)
Getting a number-one pop hit was easy for West Texans Ray Hildebrand (Joshua, TX) and Jill Jackson (Camry, TX). Mission accomplished with their first single. But the old saying, "you don't appreciate what you don't work hard for," applies here. "Hey Paula" aced Billboard's pop survey and made the Top Ten on most R&B charts, prompting Motown Records to team Marvin Gaye and Mary Wells to cash in on the fad. After pairing Gaye with Kim Weston, Motown processed the Paul & Paula paradigm successfully by pairing Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. ... Read more at allmusic.com
Who do you dislike more?
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“Born in the U.S.A” by Bruce Springsteen (1984)
Such is the thin red, white, and blue line separating patriotism and social outrage that "Born in the U.S.A." was nearly co-opted by president Ronald Reagan during his 1984 re-election run; a more bitter indictment of the American way it's tough to imagine, yet the song's anthemic passion nevertheless spoke louder than words to not only politicians, but also many Bruce Springsteen fans, all of them mistaking its anger and intensity for flag-waving, hand-over-heart devotion. The title track of Springsteen's most successful LP, "Born in the U.S.A." tells the story of a Vietnam veteran who returns to the country he protected and served only to find himself a pariah, unable even to secure work at the local refinery; it's the American dream gone horribly wrong: small-town kid goes off to war to avoid jail time, loses his brother in battle, and comes home to face a future as bleak as his past. Where the classic "Born to Run" once captured the poetry and romanticism of flight, a decade later, "Born in the U.S.A." reveals the bitter truth: "I'm ten years burning down the road/Nowhere to run, ain't got nowhere to go." In essence, escape is futile, and for many, the American dream isn't so much a privilege as it is a curse... Read more at allmusic.com
Who would you rather have as a Mom?
“Can’t Get Enough Of You Baby” by Smashmouth (1999)
Based on their infectious summer single "Walking on the Sun," it was easy to dismiss Smash Mouth as a one-hit wonder, since it was hard to believe that they'd be able to top that sun-kissed delight that was easily the highlight of their debut, Fush Yu Mang. Perhaps that's why their second record, Astro Lounge, feels like such a surprise, since it carries through on the promise of "Walking on the Sun." Like Sugar Ray — a fellow veteran of the ska-punk underworld who delivered a follow-up that owed more to melodic pop and new wave than its hit predecessor — Smash Mouth have created an album that is unabashedly fun, catchy, and lightweight, the ideal music for a car radio or a day at the beach. It's true that nothing on Astro Lounge is as immediately grabbing as "Walking on the Sun," but every song shares the same party-ready mentality and irresistible, trashy AM-radio vibe. No, nothing on Astro Lounge is particularly deep, but it's all good fun and it never disappoints — which is quite a remarkable feat... Read more at allmusic.com
“Because I Got High” by Afroman (2001)
"Because I Got High" is one of those genius, perfectly conceived and executed singles that seems to arise from the ether as if it has always been there. Sparely instrumented, recorded so nonchalantly it's hard to believe that anybody believed that the tape was rolling, it's a riot — it's not just a frat rock anthem, it's a logical, brilliant record, escalating from verse to verse, with its consciously off-handed comments still capable of eliciting extreme laughter on the 20th spin. Read more at allmusic.com
“Jailhouse Rock” by Elvis Presely (1957)
Written as the title track for Elvis' third movie, "Jailhouse Rock" is one of rock & roll's great irreducibles. Written by Jerry Lieber and Mike Stoller, the song sports one of rock & roll's most simplistic riffs, one that can be played by even the most stylistically challenged of musicians. Presley's original starts with that chordal sliding riff, moving from the key of D to the tune's official key of E flat (although almost no one has recorded the tune in that tune since), punctuated by two raw slaps to the snare drum. Read more at allmusic.com
CHECK OUT PROJECT 1.9
When he's not singing parodies, Ross Hopman is the lead singer for Project 1.9. If you think he sounds good singing other people's songs, you should hear him singing his own stuff. Click here to see where they're appearing next.
One of War's finest creations, "Why Can't We Be Friends?" reflects the band's urban roots perfectly, and there is a certain charm to the entire affair. Camaraderie, communication, and unity between people of all races is the obvious subject matter here, and the very big vocal arrangement reflects this perfectly. A funky guitar riff from Howard Roberts leads the way here, along with B.B. Dickerson's powerful conga performance. The song conveys that everyone is destined to live and love each other, and that the wall of prejudice will soon crumble. Read more at allmusic.com
"John and Barack: BFF!!"
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“Love Machine, Pt. 1” by The Miracles (1975)
With Billy Griffin on lead vocal, The Miracles scored their second pop number one ( "Tears of a Clown" is the other one). The irresistible chugger with Bobby Rogers' ingratiating growls and Griffin's airy tenor directing the charge was the highlight of their conceptual City of Angels album; the tune is a braggadocio account of the LP's main character, Michael. The 1976 release was The Miracles' biggest record and their last significant chart entry; Griffin and Warren Moore are credited as the writers. Amazingly, this disco king didn't ace the R&B chart. Griffin redid the song with Ian Levine, and did it again as recently as 2001 on a self-produced set, but the original still reigns supreme. From allmusic.com
Along with "Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. II," "Money" gave Pink Floyd a Top 40 hit, peaking at number 13 and remaining within the Top 40 for nine consecutive weeks. The irony is unavoidable, as a song that dismisses the glorification of wealth and preaches about the evils of unnecessary consumption catapults the band who is singing it into commercial fame. Pink Floyd surely wasn't aiming for a chart hit, but the elements of "Money" contained a head-bobbing rhythm and a friendly yet... Read more at allmusic.com
ECONOMIC CRISIS HITS THE U.K.
"Who Are You" by The Who (1971)
The subculture of the Mods — a subculture which informed the early music of the Who, who in time would come to personify mod thinking in the eyes of many fans — was once described as an effort to transform "revolt into style." Appropriately, both revolt and style always seemed to matter most to the Who's guitarist and primary songwriter, Pete Townshend; from the band's earliest records, he seemed to be flailing against the outer boundaries of rock & roll, looking for new ways to approach the music and change it around to suit his needs. However, when punk rock became the new buzz... Read more at allmusic.com
"Free Ride" by Dan Hartman (1979)
Hartman's followup to Instant Replay, and while nothing here raced up the charts like that album's title single, the producer/singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist flashes his party energy through sturdy constructions. "Hands Down" trails off with Stevie Wonder and Edgar Winter trading fours on harmonica and sax respectively — an inspired collaboration that could have run on a few minutes more. "Just for Fun," almost a one-man show, contrasts a muscular, syncopated hook to the insouciance of the lyric. The finale, "Free Ride," retools a hit Hartman originally wrote and sung for Edgar Winter, transferring the choogle of the older version's rhythm guitar to the rhythm section for a seemingly-simple discofication displaying the hand of a master crafsman.
“That’s Amore” by Dean Martin (1953)
Dean Martin had been recording singles and EPs for more than six years when he stepped into the studio on November 20, 1952 to cut his first ten-inch, eight-song LP. Called Dean Martin Sings, it featured songs from the Martin and Lewis film The Stooge, a near-drama about a singer who needs his comic partner more than he realizes, that was shot in 1951 but not released until 1953. Only one song, "A Girl Named Mary and a Boy Named Bill," was actually written for the score, which otherwise consisted of semi-standards from the 1920s and '30s, notably "Just One More Chance," best-known as a hit for Martin's primary influence, Bing Crosby, and "I Feel a Song Comin' On." The versatile Martin gives unusually chaste and precise readings of the songs, paying more attention to the material than he did when given less interesting... Read more at allmusic.com
“Hot Blooded” by Foreigner (1978)
Foreigner promptly followed up its blockbuster debut with the equally successful "Double Vision" LP, which featured the FM mega-hits "Hot Blooded" and the driving title track. Opting not to mess with a good formula, the band wisely sticks to the polished hard rock sound that made its first record such a hit. Other highlights include "Love Has Taken Its Toll" and "Blue Morning, Blue Day." Read more at allmusic.com
“Spinning Wheel” by Blood, Sweat & Tears (1969)
A simple, funky piano riff drives this excellent karmic period piece, which combines pop, soul, rock and a hint of psychedelic color together to create one of Blood, Sweat & Tears' most lasting classics. According to drummer Bobby Colomby, "Stylistically, [it] was simple enough for us to have... Read more at allmusic.com
“Fun, Fun, Fun” by the Beach Boys (1964)
Although their vocal harmonies make most people think of the Beach Boys as purely pop, they've often displayed a solid knack for rockers. One of their best is "Fun Fun Fun," a relentlessly propulsive track that gave the Beach Boys a Top Five hit in 1964. The witty story song lyric tells of a girl who lies to get "her daddy's car" so she can go hot-rodding. Of course, the father catches on and takes it away so the song throws in a final twist... Read more at allmusic.com
“You Got It (The Right Stuff)” by New Kids On The Block (1988)
After his success with New Edition, producer Maurice Starr decided to replicate the singing group, substituting suburban white kids for the young black teenagers. The result was New Kids on the Block, a pioneering boy band that quickly eclipsed the popularity of Starr's previous group while laying the groundwork for the teen pop boom of the late-'90s. Comprising Boston-area singers Donnie Wahlberg, Jordan Knight, Jon Knight, Danny Wood, and Joey McIntyre... Read more at allmusic.com
"Three's Company" ABC Television (1977 - 1984)
ABC caused something of a dust-up in March of 1977 when it aired a new comedy called Three’s Company. Penned and produced by Don Nicholl, Michael Ross, and Bernie West (Emmy award-winning writers for All in the Family and producers of The Jeffersons), the series was loosely based on the British sitcom Man About the House. Read more at tvland.com
“Love Potion No. 9” by The Searchers (1963)
The Searchers' debut LP doesn't sound quite like any other album they ever issued. All of their Pye Records albums were rushed, but not like this — faced with an extraordinarily popular hit right out of the box in the guise of "Sweets for My Sweet" (which rose to Number One on the U.K. charts), the group cut 11 more finished tracks in one day, drawn from the best part of their stage act. Read more at allmusic.com
Everyone’s favorite racist, anti-Semitic, homophobic,misogynist,holocaust-denying Hollywood superstar is at it again. Hear a musical blow by blow account of Mel Gibson’s latest antics, inspired by actual excerpts from his rants.
