Writer’s Note: With our April issue centred around comedy and the spirit of fun, I thought it would be interesting to highlight music written and performed by comedians. It’s important to remember that stand-up comedians are people of many different sides and talents and these comedians are only a few examples. While these songs are mostly silly, it takes an awfully creative mind to make music that people can digest.
Bo Burnham – Bezos I
With a criticism of disaster capitalism, Bo Burnham’s ‘Bezos I’ was featured in his 2021 movie, Bo Burnham: Inside. The song is a satirical take on Amazon CEO, Jeff Bezos’ life and journey, which became a huge hit on social media with Gen Z. The infectious energy and short length of the song is a genius tactic for catching the attention of social media. Burnham is known for his bold and satirical takes on world issues.
The Lonely Island – Threw It On The Ground
The Lonely Island is an American comedy trio consisting of Andy Samberg, Jorma Taccone, and Akiva Schaffer. After their several features on Saturday Night Live, the trio ventured into more comedy music and ‘Threw It On The Ground’ is their most bizarre but since this is their most clean song, it is the perfect intro to them. The entire song never has a moment you won’t laugh at as it paints ridiculous scenarios with a strangely catchy beat.
“Weird Al” Yankovic – Smells Like Nirvana
The definitive Godfather of musical comedy and parodies, “Weird Al” Yankovic’s discography is difficult to pin down with his extensive parodies. While his music is not for everybody, his comedy is a classic and his energy is unmatched within the industry. ‘Smells Like Nirvana’ was singled out as it seems impossible to make a parody of Nirvana’s ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ but Yankovic always challenged music norms.
Jack Black – Peaches
The Super Mario Bros. Movie in 2023 was a hit or a miss for most people but the highlight was Jack Black’s Bowser’s performance of the song, ‘Peaches.’ The repetitive but emotional song with dramatic screaming is both relatable and hilarious. The credit definitely goes to Jack Black’s natural charisma and comedic timing. Black’s discography is filled with wild songs and interesting vocals.
Kenny Sebastian – Die Trying
With talent and wit, Kenny Sebastian is a serious addition to this list with his song, ‘Die Trying.’ Featured on the album of the same name, Sebastian’s surprisingly smooth vocals and introspective lyrics show his worth as a musician and add layers to his career. His album features other meaningful songs and collaborative pieces. More than just his original songs, Sebastian also performs accurate impressions of famous musicians.
Garfunkel & Oates – Me, You and Steve
If you’re online most of the time, this song might be familiar. Garfunkel & Oates are a folk duo with Riki Lindhome (Garfunkel) and Kate Micucci (Oates). Their upbeat melody with sarcastic lyrics in ‘Me, You and Steve’ is one of the most meme-worthy songs of the decade. The song points out the awkwardness of the third wheel and is often used humorously in videos where there are trios and one person stands out. Their other songs are similar, pointing out the behaviour of others most people would shy away from speaking out about.