One of my favorite memories was attending a spinal tap concert standing next to weird Al in the audience. I felt like I was in a hilarious twilight zone
Absolutely! Back in the day, when Weird Al first hit the airwaves at the end of the 70s, if we had been told he'd still be making us laugh almost 50 years down the road, none of us would have believed it. As much as we appreciated his humor & musical talent, i'm sure most of us thought he might be a bit more than a 1 hit wonder, but not much more than 2-3. I'm thrilled for him that he was able to forge a legit, lifelong career for himself. He definitely deserves the acknowledgement.
@AnnaTrail-xp8pr It's not about genre. It's about egos. And I don't know how you don't get raps inclusion. They've been putting in every other popular genre since day 1.
I met Weird Al while he was shopping in a record store in 1990. He was super gracious. My best friend and I were so nervous to say hello that my friend’s girlfriend just walked over to him. He was grinning because she was a stunner, then she introduced us and walked away. To Al’s credit his smile didn’t fade and spoke to us for a while. I have since become a pastor, and by coincidence, I just told that story in a sermon a few months ago.
Having one of your songs parodied by Weird Al is a greater HONOR than winning a Grammy or making the Top Ten. Statistically, it is much more difficult to achieve. Plus the parody gives your song a second life of its own!
Weird Al and band are seriously underrated. They play every genre of music, and do it exceptionally well. Hard rock one minute, soul the next, dance, hip hop. And, the world's greatest accordion solos for icing. They deserve every paycheck, award they get
I was the audio tech working monitors on stage with Weird Al and his band at Disney's Pleasure Island, in the mid-1990s on Halloween night, and he played a parody of McCartney's "Live and Let Die" and when the chorus came it was, "chicken pot pie!" And I about died laughing! I couldn't believe he didn't release this great parody. Turns out he didn't get permission to release it but he did get permission to play it live. That event was called "HalloWeird". Thanks Al, for such a great memory!
Weird Al’s band doesn’t get enough recognition for how great of musicians they all are. And he’s had the same exact band his whole career. Weird Al’s musicianship and songwriting skills are at the same level as his humor. And he’s a genuine kind guy who’s looked the same age for the last 40 years. What’s not to love?
Al is such a humble and gracious guy. I met him for an instant at San Diego Comic Con in 2006 after a panel by the Futurama/Animaniacs voice actors. I was trying to get closer to the stage to get some pictures when I spotted Al making his way to talk to the panelists. I walked over to him and said "Hey Al! I'm a big fan, can I get a picture?" He said "Sure, no problem!" And that was my brush with fame.
I loved reading that even though the Amish might not have the tech to listen to "Amish Paradise" people who worked driving buses for the Amish would play the song for them and the Amish thought it was hilarious! They loved it!😂
Ah they have the tech, I've seen courting Amish teenagers with a boombox in their buggy, listening to music as they traveled down a gravel backroad, wondering if the horse "lost a shoe" since running outta gas wasn't an option for being late getting her home
I cooked for Weird Al at the "KAHUNAVILLE" restaurant/dock bar, (Wilmington, DE) in 1998...after the show he came and spoke with several employees in the Break Room, I told him I had been a fan since his "Another One Rides the Bus" song , sadly the restaurant and bar are gone but memory remains. That's my Weird Al experience. Very funny and cool guy.
No way. Ppl actually live in Delaware? Never came across one before. Delaware is such a mystery. You hardly ever hear about it. Whats there? Whats fun? Is it a part of America or Canada or some other planet entirely?
He was shy in school. He kinda wasn't that class clown kid. At least not until he graduated as valedictorian of his high school (at age 16!) and gave a fairly manic speech about the environment and the icebergs melting. In 2006 he was the Grand Marshal of the Lynwood Christmas Parade and while he was in town he took the trouble to find and visit one of his high school math teachers, and gave him a copy of one of his gold records. I assume it was "Straight Outta Lynwood" but I don't know for sure.
I instantly became a fan of Weird Al when I heard My Bologna in Dr. Demento. I always made sure my kids were introduced my favorite artists. Well really they didn't have much of a choice in the back seat, but they loved Weird Al sang along lot's of the time. One of my proudest moments was walking into the kitchen and found my youngest son singing along to The Saga Begins as he fixed his lunch.
I have the Dr. Demento CD (still shrink-wrapped), and Al is represented on it with "Yoda" (parody of "Lola" by The Kinks). Of course, he would come back to Star Wars as a theme later in his career with "The Saga Begins" (parody of "American Pie" by Don McLean).
I loved Dr. Demento. Every Sunday night it came on, I just had to listen to the show. Then switch over to Star Streams for the fantastic "space" music.
Great interview, Adam. Amish Paradise was a masterpiece that used a number of practical effects, that required incredible timing. Especially the barn raising scene. He had to stand in the exact spot or he would have been squashed. Plus he had to walk and sing backwards.
Yeah, this channel has become such a favorite that it's now on my Linktree along with all of my karaoke stuff. I love history in general, and doesn't *everyone* love a good story?
@@boxerreb I love and mentally "collect" great stories! I'm not known as a "music guy" at all, I'm "car and machinery nerd". Even so, I'm finding this channel addictive.
As the story goes, when he called Kurt Cobain to ask permission for the parody, Kurt asked him "Uhhh, it's not about food, is it?" and Al replied "No, no, it's about how nobody can understand your lyrics". There was then a moment of silence until Kurt eventually said "Yeah ok, that sounds like fun!".
@@ProfessorofRock could it to Weird Al? Follow this work of music since his album,, Like some of songs if play backwards there like special words eggs or message. Like one its Natural to hell
I think Weird Al’s career is one of the rarest in the industry… He had his initial success and went to higher highs, had a bit of a lol. And then another hit album. And that’s where the career would end for 99% of other musicians. They would be just doing farewell tours for the rest of their lives, and it would be enjoyable, but that would be it. I have been honestly shocked that from the 2000’s onward Weird Al basically went on into even greater success in sort of a transformative sense… his later works confirm that he can make comedy in every genre that even the musicians themselves enjoy and he can stay relevant far beyond even the songs he parodied
I’m in that team also! I saw it on HBO a loong time ago, 35 years later every time I have the chance to see it I look at it and still laugh at the jokes, and after all this years I cannot teach my poodles to fly!
Adam, you and Al really had a good time here in this interview and based on his reaction to talking with you, it really looks like any moment you want to have a chat with him again, he'd be totally cool with it. Al definitely had fun going through the timeline of his work. The two of you "gelled" perfectly, like two friends reliving their memories. These videos with Weird Al and you are some of my favorite interviews... definitely in the top five, for sure. Thank you so much!
I think his best song is Word Crimes. The lyrics and video are top notch. Second is White and Nerdy. Donny Osmond dancing in the background is too funny.
@@wavion2 Exactly! I didn't like the original either but Word Crimes lyrics are intelligent and witty. The graphics that illustrate the lyrics are equally brilliant. Hats off to J. M. Heather.
"3-D" was one of the first cassettes I ever bought with my own money, took my son to see him on the "Straight Outta Lynnwood" tour, and love him to this day. Dude is definitely a big part of the soundtrack of my life, keep the Weird content coming!🤘
I didn't expect it, but personally i think the Weird Al interviews are the best you have ever done! Two guys who are willing to do the research to make something amazing. What a great guy!
I just love him. I can’t quite explain it.. it’s more than his talent, legendary kindness, and longevity. Hes a cultural touchstone and I miss those, ya know.
Weird Al was the first person I ever saw in concert. He opened for the Monkees at Riverbend in Cincinnati in 1987. I just bought tickets to see him again in Huntsville, AL next July. Thanks Professor for all you do on this channel. So much great insight into the artists and their music!
Fun story-in college I dated a guy who not only bore a strong resemblance to Huey Lewis, but had met him and bought him a beer. And this particular guy had an affinity for ducks! My mom called him Duck Bill.
I saw UHF while visiting a friend in Florida. We looooved it. I do remember the theater was surprisingly empty. A lot of people missed out! SPATULA WORLD!
@@BrandyStaples-d8lI am so pleased at least one of my kids can quote from the Spatula City segment. Said eldest kid also repeated "Badgers? We don't need no stinking badgers?" a few days ago. My wife is the megafan, actually. She met him at the Central Washington State Fair some time in the early 90s. She found out his daughter is just about the same age as said kid.
I remember being so addicted to Dr. Dimento on the AM radio...he had this young guy with an accordion who did Slide Trombona and Another One Rides the Bus...I was hooked! Thanks for all the comedy and inspiration Weird Al. Now if you ever need our lyrics for Circle K (think purple rain)...
"🎶 Honey Mustard, Mustard, Mustard on the na - chos... We gotta try for something new That means you too You say you wanna get something But'cha can't seem to make up your mind... You gotta take my hand An' let me guide you To the Circle K....🎶" --My 5 minutes of inspired thought.
Weird Al is one of my first go to music to break a bad mood. Songs like Eat It, Fat, Christmas At Ground Zero, Smells Like Nirvana, Rye or the Kaiser, and Trash Day just to name a few of my favorites, always make me laugh and smile no matter how many times I've hear them in the past and counting on in the future. His comical genius reminds me that it's better to generate happiness and laughter wherever you go, so that people will always be glad you came, than grateful you left.
It sucks UHF missed at the time. Imagine how much better life would be had Al had a new movie every 3 or 4 years. UHF is a movie I still watch probably once a year. It got to introduce it to my children, my grand children. Its one of the funniest movies ever made.
True but he is in a lot of good company of great movies that just released at the wrong time or with a title people just couldn't remember that squashed box office numbers. Shawshank Redemption is just one of many that are like UHF in that they are cult classics that did better business post box office.
I got to see Weird Al on one of his last tours where he only did his original songs aside from a small medley of parodies at the end and he was awesome. Kudos to you for getting to interview him. I always appreciate your interviews because you know the right questions to ask and make your subjects feel comfortable and it shows. Keep up the good work Professor!
This is the best interview of Weird Al I have seen, and I was brimming with a smile thruout the interview. I was surprise that he is very well verse in music composition. A highly educated comedy musician. I love the nirvana parody with the army of kazoo players!
Proud to say I've been a Weird Al Fan since 6th grade, listening to my "Weird Al" Yankovic in 3-D" cassette over and over. I've now gotten my three nephews into him, and even dragged my wife to his sold out concert at the Hollywood Bowl in 2016. And now she is a fan! He's more than a gimmick- real musical genius, and a heck of a nice fellow. Great interview, man! Good job not interrupting. I can't stand when interviewers constantly interject, interrupt, and rush their guests along. Nice chill vibe- good listening skills - more like a conversation than rushing through a set list of questions.
UHF is a fantastic movie! I've turned to it through some hard times and it always makes me laugh! And I've seen Al live a few times now, highly recommend!!
I was 12-13 when UHF came out, I thought it was amazing since day 1 ! I have re-told, re-acted, skits from it many times. In this interview to hear how Weird Al took such a deep look into an artist before covering them was amazing ! Much love !
It's amazing as I look back on that time just how important Weird Al was to us. At the time, I was like "he cracks me up!" and then a shrug and move on. Today, I'm like "he really did help to define my youth" LOL
Did anybody else hear the Dr. signing off with "Stay Demented!" at the end of the video? Dr. Demento introduced Al and so many of my favorite tracks, mishaping my sense of humor for life!
Bedtime for me was right when Dr. Demento's show started, so I'd lie there in bed and listen to all these amazing and funny songs. If I found myself laughing too loud, my mom would burst in and yell at me to "GO TO SLEEP!!"
love this interview Prof! It's like two long lost friends talking about the good times. That's why you're different from other interviewers! Keep up the great work!
When I was a kid, I thought "I want a new duck" WAS the original 😂 My parents didn't play Huey Lewis at home, but my brother listened to weird Al on repeat, and I'd heard the parody on one of those primetime disney specials that we used to get so excited about, so when I did finally hear "I want a new drug," I thought it was a rip-off, and I was NOT impressed 🤣
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 that he is and I've been a fan since the 80s those 80s albums are timeless and the humor of the parodies are still funny and also love his originals to which are excellent to
@ProfessorofRock-While watching, I couldn't help but notice how it got darker as the interview went on. Just goes to show the complexities involved with doing these. This is why I/we appreciate you so much, Professor. Thank you!
"Smells like Nirvana" was always one of my favorites. Him poking fun of the fact those lyrics were unintelligible **chefs kiss**. And the music video? Absolutely hilarious. On the same album was my absolute favorite of his originals, "You Don't Love Me Anymore." "I lost a little bit of self esteem, That time that you made it with the whole hockey team." Still makes me giggle.
Great video. A friend purchased 2 tickets to attend a May 2022 tour /w meet & greet, and I was who he'd picked to go with / birthday present related thing. I am old enough to remember in elementary school, through classmantes, gaining awareness to Weird Al. I have a vague recollection of a music teacher changing up the lyrics of Beat It so that the students could learn to play various rhythms, and those of us who could ready music at an early age had various keyboard percussion instruments to play the melody. Never had cable growing up, so never had MTV. But, I have seen and enjoyed PBS Victor Borge & PDQ Bach who play around with classical music comically. Weird Al has been a favorite for decades :) - - - great video!
I remember the tweet he put out for the casting call. I oddly thought it was strange, that he'd have a staffer do it. Nah, he still does plenty of things himself.
Weird Al has always been my favorite comic rock singer and accordionist of the 80's & 90's and still is today great to him again here have a great weekend and thank you Professor. 🎶🎤🎸🎸🎹🪗🥁🎶
@ProfessorofRock all of his 80's songs especially those that were shown on MTV like Eat It, Like a Surgeon and Amish Paradise as well as UHF movie thank you Professor.🎶🎤🎸🎸🎹🪗🥁🎶
Absolutely love Weird Al! When someone begs you to make fun of their song, you know you are admired. Music is better with Weird Al in it. 👍 Thanks Professor! I hope everyone has a great weekend, and is appreciative to be here to enjoy it. ❤️
Man, bits of Polkas on 45 are still on high rotation on my ear worm playlist all these years later. I can’t hear Hendrix or the Stones without Al’s medley chiming in. I love that guy, the man’s a genuine treasure! ❤❤❤
First exposure to Weird Al: "Another One Rides the Bus," and maybe because he was unknown at the time, a couple DJs were taking credit for it when I heard it. Obviously, got past that, and have thoroughly enjoyed his career since. "White and Nerdy" still sends me rolling. I revel in his original ones, too. "One More Minute" is a nonpareil humor piece, and "Bob" is simply epic.
I've loved Weird Al for 40 years! "Dare To Be Stupid" was the first cassette tape I ever bought and listened to front to back! I can't wait to see him this summer
That summer UHF came out... Best. Movie. Ever. (comedy) Years ago now when my daughter and I were doing some yard work together (back when she always wanted to help and wasn't too cool for me yet) and she was thirsty. So what do I say? "YOU GET TO DRINK FROM THE FIRE HOSE!" ... I still sometimes see that kid getting blasted and laugh my ass off like it's the first time I saw it. Love that film.
Al is such a treasure. I remember him from my childhood and still to this day he remains fresh and understanding of music today. He is beyond a satirist or parody genius. He is a unique genius of interpretation and mimicry to a degree I just don't think anyone else has shown similar ability in the music industry.
Al has been in my earholes since 1984... Haven't seen him live in forever, but the 2025 tour brings him to Vegas. Taking my oldest son, whose first concert was Al at a county fair. Looking forward to seeing the genius in person again!
Weird Al seems like the best guy to interview. Genuine, funny, and engaged. Meeting him in person would be amazing! I got started on 'Alapalooza' and haven't quit listening! Favouite songs - Tacky, Smells Like Nirvana, White and Nerdy and especially All About The Pentiums'
Gotta love Weird Al. Every so often in a virtual reality game I play, where I DJ, I do a parody set with the original song then the parody. It goes over very well. Kudos and props to Al!!
Loved this video and love Weird Al!!! I loved the UHF movie too. "Wait a minute. Do I still get to be the janitor?!" Best line ever. One of my favorite songs of his is Midnight Star, the original about a National Enquier-esq tabloid. He's so damn funny.
Remember hearing My Bologna on the Doctor Demento Show, circa 1980, and even with just the accordion and voice, it was a great parody that outclassed pretty much everything else in the good Doctor's stable of acts.
My favorite Weird Al story was how he got Nirvana to agree with his Teen Spirit parody. Unable to get in touch with them, his UHF co-star and friend Victoria Jackson got them on the phone when they guested on SNL. Kurt Cobain’s response “Well, is it going to be about food?”
I loved Victoria's 'I Am Not A Bimbo' sketch on SNL. She surprised me on Politically Incorrect with her conservative take... she was also correct. President Clinton should have resigned in 1998.
@ it annoys me that people today can’t separate art from the artist. Not everybody is going to agree with political views, but unless the person actually commits a crime, it’s not worth getting upset about and disliking them.
@@JeffTaggart-p6o Horseshit. If one of your political views is that some demographic groups deserve less rights than others, then you absolutely should dislike them for it.
Poll: What is the Greatest Music Video of the 80s or 90s?
You've got another thing coming Judas Priest
80's : A-ha - Take On Me
90's : Lisa Loeb - Stay
Best Video of All Time: The Correspondents - Fear and Delight
Take On Me or Criminal Mind , both were far different then everything else at the time
Centerfield - John Fogerty. It doesn't get any better than that if you are a baseball fan.
@@Sweet--Richard.4981 Love it.
One of my favorite memories was attending a spinal tap concert standing next to weird Al in the audience. I felt like I was in a hilarious twilight zone
Serious? When was this?
Well that is hilarious.
I love every word of this comment. What memory for you!
@@ProfessorofRock Do a april fools episode about spinal tap.
He sat four rows in front of me at a B52's concert And we were in the midsection. He could have been watching from backstage!
Weird Al NEEDS to be in the Rock and Roll HOF
They will NEVER PUT HIM IN! But I agree!
If rap is accepted which I don't get at all. Then Al definitely should.
Agreed@@AnnaTrail-xp8pr
Absolutely! Back in the day, when Weird Al first hit the airwaves at the end of the 70s, if we had been told he'd still be making us laugh almost 50 years down the road, none of us would have believed it. As much as we appreciated his humor & musical talent, i'm sure most of us thought he might be a bit more than a 1 hit wonder, but not much more than 2-3. I'm thrilled for him that he was able to forge a legit, lifelong career for himself. He definitely deserves the acknowledgement.
@AnnaTrail-xp8pr It's not about genre. It's about egos.
And I don't know how you don't get raps inclusion. They've been putting in every other popular genre since day 1.
I met Weird Al while he was shopping in a record store in 1990. He was super gracious. My best friend and I were so nervous to say hello that my friend’s girlfriend just walked over to him. He was grinning because she was a stunner, then she introduced us and walked away. To Al’s credit his smile didn’t fade and spoke to us for a while.
I have since become a pastor, and by coincidence, I just told that story in a sermon a few months ago.
Let's all thank Jesus for inventing rock and sticks......
Having one of your songs parodied by Weird Al is a greater HONOR than winning a Grammy or making the Top Ten. Statistically, it is much more difficult to achieve. Plus the parody gives your song a second life of its own!
Many have said as much!
Awards have become worthless.Weird Al covering your song is priceless !
@@Jd-zr8bs A trophy gathers dust. "Weird Al" gathers friends.
@@michaelfitzsimmons8393 Lol absolutely true.He just radiates good vibes,can actually see how genuine he is in interviews .Who doesn't like Weird Al ?
I would die to have Weird Al parody my song.
Weird Al and band are seriously underrated. They play every genre of music, and do it exceptionally well. Hard rock one minute, soul the next, dance, hip hop. And, the world's greatest accordion solos for icing. They deserve every paycheck, award they get
I agree. thank for watching Chris!
I agree. A big shoutout to his musicians!
Agree, took my kids to see him around the time the queen died, they ended the show with sex pistols god save the queen and it was outstanding
You left out polka.
Yes! And not even just parodies, they play outright covers of songs and do a damn good job at it. They are all great musicians.
I was the audio tech working monitors on stage with Weird Al and his band at Disney's Pleasure Island, in the mid-1990s on Halloween night, and he played a parody of McCartney's "Live and Let Die" and when the chorus came it was, "chicken pot pie!" And I about died laughing! I couldn't believe he didn't release this great parody. Turns out he didn't get permission to release it but he did get permission to play it live. That event was called "HalloWeird". Thanks Al, for such a great memory!
I was standing at that concert on my honeymoon. It was my first Weird Al concert.
McCartney and his wife were strict vegetarians. They didn't want this song to promote meat.
@@McKavian yes that is true
@@McKavianif only Al sang ‘Vegan Pot Pie’!!
Oh come on Paul.
"If i ever meet you, I'll Crtl Alt Delete you" is some of the hardest lyrics ever
Love Al
Couldn’t agree more 😂
It’s all about the pentiums baby
Weird Al is such a national gem
... I don't think you know what the word 'literally' means...
He truly is!
What's your favorite parody of his?
@@ProfessorofRock Amish Paradise is my favorite. The butter churn scene as well as the going backwards scene in the video make it the best.
@@ProfessorofRock probably Amish Paradise
Weird Al’s band doesn’t get enough recognition for how great of musicians they all are. And he’s had the same exact band his whole career. Weird Al’s musicianship and songwriting skills are at the same level as his humor. And he’s a genuine kind guy who’s looked the same age for the last 40 years. What’s not to love?
Same members? That's rare for even a 5 year old band
THE MAN TURNED 65 THIS YEAR!! HOW THE HELL DOES HE LOOK THIS GOOD AT 65?!
Much praise to Jim West, Steve Jay and Jon Bermudan Schwartz! As well as “newbie” (only been there since the ‘90s) Ruben!
Al is such a humble and gracious guy. I met him for an instant at San Diego Comic Con in 2006 after a panel by the Futurama/Animaniacs voice actors. I was trying to get closer to the stage to get some pictures when I spotted Al making his way to talk to the panelists. I walked over to him and said "Hey Al! I'm a big fan, can I get a picture?" He said "Sure, no problem!" And that was my brush with fame.
So a "Lame Claim to Fame"? Ha
@@jpblack7988 Ha! I'll take it.
@@jpblack7988noice
I loved reading that even though the Amish might not have the tech to listen to "Amish Paradise" people who worked driving buses for the Amish would play the song for them and the Amish thought it was hilarious! They loved it!😂
Ha ha!
I live in Lititz, PA half of the week. Believe me, the Amish DO have the tech to listen to it. Buggies pass my place all the time blasting music.
Ah they have the tech, I've seen courting Amish teenagers with a boombox in their buggy, listening to music as they traveled down a gravel backroad, wondering if the horse "lost a shoe" since running outta gas wasn't an option for being late getting her home
@@thomasgilkey9140clever. Boys will be boys. Horse losing a shoe is hilarious!
Haha!
“White and Nerdy” kills me every time. 😃
So good!
I STILL sing this song . . . because I relate. 😂
white and nerdy is one of my favorites
Same here! @@jayupstateny13650
It's my husband's theme song! "Do I Creep You Out" is mine.
Like A Surgeon and Smells Like Nirvana both cracked me up when I saw them on MTV. This man is a comedy genius.
Yes he is!
The one that cracked me up is Fat.
Such an all around down to earth, talented and humble guy. Grew up listening to him and he never disappointed.
And isn't there that meme floating around about how no scandal has followed him during his entire career? "Be more like Al." 🙂
Weird Al is a genius. His work is as meaningful and complex as anything written by “serious “ artists.
I cooked for Weird Al at the "KAHUNAVILLE" restaurant/dock bar, (Wilmington, DE) in 1998...after the show he came and spoke with several employees in the Break Room, I told him I had been a fan since his "Another One Rides the Bus" song , sadly the restaurant and bar are gone but memory remains.
That's my Weird Al experience. Very funny and cool guy.
Thanks for sharing!
That's an awesome experience, thanks for sharing!
I spent many a night at Kahunaville - saw Weird Al there as well. I miss that place. I was there in my silk shirt the night they opened. 😂
Super cool. I'm so jealous
No way. Ppl actually live in Delaware? Never came across one before. Delaware is such a mystery. You hardly ever hear about it. Whats there? Whats fun? Is it a part of America or Canada or some other planet entirely?
He is proof that the kid disturbing class can be huge in the future. Love the songs and the history he has.
That's a good comment!
Yup.
He was shy in school. He kinda wasn't that class clown kid. At least not until he graduated as valedictorian of his high school (at age 16!) and gave a fairly manic speech about the environment and the icebergs melting. In 2006 he was the Grand Marshal of the Lynwood Christmas Parade and while he was in town he took the trouble to find and visit one of his high school math teachers, and gave him a copy of one of his gold records. I assume it was "Straight Outta Lynwood" but I don't know for sure.
I instantly became a fan of Weird Al when I heard My Bologna in Dr. Demento. I always made sure my kids were introduced my favorite artists. Well really they didn't have much of a choice in the back seat, but they loved Weird Al sang along lot's of the time. One of my proudest moments was walking into the kitchen and found my youngest son singing along to The Saga Begins as he fixed his lunch.
I have the Dr. Demento CD (still shrink-wrapped), and Al is represented on it with "Yoda" (parody of "Lola" by The Kinks). Of course, he would come back to Star Wars as a theme later in his career with "The Saga Begins" (parody of "American Pie" by Don McLean).
lol at "they didn't have much choice in the back seat"
I loved Dr. Demento. Every Sunday night it came on, I just had to listen to the show. Then switch over to Star Streams for the fantastic "space" music.
Great interview, Adam. Amish Paradise was a masterpiece that used a number of practical effects, that required incredible timing. Especially the barn raising scene. He had to stand in the exact spot or he would have been squashed. Plus he had to walk and sing backwards.
Al is so modest, but i want to tell him he never let us down. Everything he touched was gold! :)
I’m always impressed with Adams preparation and knowledge he has while interviewing various artists!
Thanks! Hope you enjoy it!
Indeed!
Yeah, this channel has become such a favorite that it's now on my Linktree along with all of my karaoke stuff. I love history in general, and doesn't *everyone* love a good story?
He's just like Weird Al and ducks!
@@boxerreb I love and mentally "collect" great stories! I'm not known as a "music guy" at all, I'm "car and machinery nerd". Even so, I'm finding this channel addictive.
As the story goes, when he called Kurt Cobain to ask permission for the parody, Kurt asked him "Uhhh, it's not about food, is it?" and Al replied "No, no, it's about how nobody can understand your lyrics". There was then a moment of silence until Kurt eventually said "Yeah ok, that sounds like fun!".
You got the story wrong lol Kurt wanted it to be about food lol he was bummed out when it wasn't
@@mattmaccay2351kurdt said he had already written penny royalties
@@mattmaccay2351that’s not true. Kurt sarcastically said what he said.
You know that you've made it in the entertainment industry when Weird Al parodies one of your songs.
I've heard that SO MANY TIMES!
And you know that you've made it in the parody industry when one of your songs entertains Weird Al.
That is so true.
He needs to be recognized he put on the rock ‘n’ roll Hall of Fame
I agree!
@@ProfessorofRock could it to Weird Al? Follow this work of music since his album,, Like some of songs if play backwards there like special words eggs or message. Like one its Natural to hell
_According to my inside source, he is being considered for it._
I think Weird Al’s career is one of the rarest in the industry… He had his initial success and went to higher highs, had a bit of a lol. And then another hit album. And that’s where the career would end for 99% of other musicians. They would be just doing farewell tours for the rest of their lives, and it would be enjoyable, but that would be it. I have been honestly shocked that from the 2000’s onward Weird Al basically went on into even greater success in sort of a transformative sense… his later works confirm that he can make comedy in every genre that even the musicians themselves enjoy and he can stay relevant far beyond even the songs he parodied
Put me in the "I love UHF" group! I still laugh at the characters, and sing to the songs! All the best Al! And thanks for the video Prof.!
"Don't you know the Dewey Decimal System?"
@@jlmww Yeah, they so stupid. Stupid!
"There is nothing in the box!"
I watched it with my kids a couple weeks ago. It was their first time and they loved it! Already have tickets to the 2025 tour.
I’m in that team also! I saw it on HBO a loong time ago, 35 years later every time I have the chance to see it I look at it and still laugh at the jokes, and after all this years I cannot teach my poodles to fly!
This interview felt like Adam and Al are just a couple of buddies talking about old times!
Great Job!
Fastest 20 minutes in UA-cam I've ever watched, felt more like 5.
Adam, you and Al really had a good time here in this interview and based on his reaction to talking with you, it really looks like any moment you want to have a chat with him again, he'd be totally cool with it. Al definitely had fun going through the timeline of his work.
The two of you "gelled" perfectly, like two friends reliving their memories. These videos with Weird Al and you are some of my favorite interviews... definitely in the top five, for sure. Thank you so much!
King of Musical comedy ! Weird Al is the best friend we all wanted to have
Thanks Randy!
I Love Rocky Road, My Bologna, I Lost on Jeopardy - Classic Hits! And Greg Kihn was in Al's video.
That's right!
Yup. He was driving the car that Al was thrown into.
Greg seemed to really enjoy himself there.
I think his best song is Word Crimes. The lyrics and video are top notch. Second is White and Nerdy. Donny Osmond dancing in the background is too funny.
I absolutely hate the original song. But the lyrics of Word Crimes are so good that I love Al's version.
@@wavion2 Exactly! I didn't like the original either but Word Crimes lyrics are intelligent and witty. The graphics that illustrate the lyrics are equally brilliant. Hats off to J. M. Heather.
That’s my favorite too.
Best video would have to be Amish Paradise.
I love Word Crimes
First time I heard his song 'Dare to be stupid' was in 'The Transformers: The Movie' ('86 animated one)
"3-D" was one of the first cassettes I ever bought with my own money, took my son to see him on the "Straight Outta Lynnwood" tour, and love him to this day. Dude is definitely a big part of the soundtrack of my life, keep the Weird content coming!🤘
Very cool! Thanks for sharing!
Nature Trail to Hell in 3D still a favorite.
I always forget he’s from California too!
I didn't expect it, but personally i think the Weird Al interviews are the best you have ever done! Two guys who are willing to do the research to make something amazing. What a great guy!
I just love him. I can’t quite explain it.. it’s more than his talent, legendary kindness, and longevity. Hes a cultural touchstone and I miss those, ya know.
I STILL love "UHF" and watch it every time it pops up on my watchlist.
Came here to say this! Such a classic!
_A lot of people STILL love it._
Weird Al was the first person I ever saw in concert. He opened for the Monkees at Riverbend in Cincinnati in 1987. I just bought tickets to see him again in Huntsville, AL next July. Thanks Professor for all you do on this channel. So much great insight into the artists and their music!
I remember listening to Dr. Demento when I moved to California in the summer of 1982 and hearing Weird Al at his very beginnings.
Thanks for sharing!
Funny five lol
Mr Frump kills me to this day very day.
This is a funny interview. He researched ducks to write "I Want A New Duck ". Ducks are cute. The babies can swim the minute they hatch. 🐣🦆
Ha ha! Right?
Would Puddles, the Oregon Duck enjoy, I want a New Duck?
Quack quack quack. And at least he doesn’t say ducks cluck, unlike Rick Dees.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I like birds and ducks too.
Fun story-in college I dated a guy who not only bore a strong resemblance to Huey Lewis, but had met him and bought him a beer. And this particular guy had an affinity for ducks! My mom called him Duck Bill.
He is actually similar to Cole Porter who used humor and innuendo to create historically memorable songs. He is a national treasure.
Have you heard that Mimsy Starr
She got pinched in the Astor Bar
I wish Weird Al had talked about "You Don't Love Me Anymore" since it's one of my faves that is an original composition of his.
an underrated song for the ages
I saw UHF while visiting a friend in Florida. We looooved it. I do remember the theater was surprisingly empty. A lot of people missed out! SPATULA WORLD!
Love Spatula City!
Spatula City! LOL I haven't had my coffee yet.
Spatula!!!
@@BrandyStaples-d8lI am so pleased at least one of my kids can quote from the Spatula City segment. Said eldest kid also repeated "Badgers? We don't need no stinking badgers?" a few days ago.
My wife is the megafan, actually. She met him at the Central Washington State Fair some time in the early 90s. She found out his daughter is just about the same age as said kid.
I'm Sy Greenbaum, President of Spatula City. I liked their spatulas so much I bought the company.
I remember being so addicted to Dr. Dimento on the AM radio...he had this young guy with an accordion who did Slide Trombona and Another One Rides the Bus...I was hooked! Thanks for all the comedy and inspiration Weird Al. Now if you ever need our lyrics for Circle K (think purple rain)...
"🎶 Honey Mustard, Mustard, Mustard on the na - chos...
We gotta try for something new
That means you too
You say you wanna get something
But'cha can't seem to make up your mind...
You gotta take my hand
An' let me guide you
To the Circle K....🎶"
--My 5 minutes of inspired thought.
That's not fair , I worked at circle K and it wasn't funny....
Living With a Hernia is one of my favourites.
Yes! I FEEL BAD!!! 😂
Yup you could tell Al spent a lot of time watching/learning the dance moves of the GFoS to get it right for the video. So well done.
Weird Al is one of my first go to music to break a bad mood. Songs like Eat It, Fat, Christmas At Ground Zero, Smells Like Nirvana, Rye or the Kaiser, and Trash Day just to name a few of my favorites, always make me laugh and smile no matter how many times I've hear them in the past and counting on in the future. His comical genius reminds me that it's better to generate happiness and laughter wherever you go, so that people will always be glad you came, than grateful you left.
It sucks UHF missed at the time. Imagine how much better life would be had Al had a new movie every 3 or 4 years. UHF is a movie I still watch probably once a year. It got to introduce it to my children, my grand children. Its one of the funniest movies ever made.
True but he is in a lot of good company of great movies that just released at the wrong time or with a title people just couldn't remember that squashed box office numbers. Shawshank Redemption is just one of many that are like UHF in that they are cult classics that did better business post box office.
The Studios will decide which movies are hits or not. Sometimes a movie will defy all that, but usually... If it's meant to be a hit, it'll be a hit.
I got to see Weird Al on one of his last tours where he only did his original songs aside from a small medley of parodies at the end and he was awesome. Kudos to you for getting to interview him. I always appreciate your interviews because you know the right questions to ask and make your subjects feel comfortable and it shows. Keep up the good work Professor!
Weird Al has made this a better world to live in. He deserves a Nobel Prize... perhaps in physiology or medicine.
Literature
I remember when he had his own program on mtv called Al-tv when m-tv still played music videos.
That's right. Good memory! What's your favorite Music Video by Al?
Yes. I’ve heard that.
He also took over VH1 once or twice, after MTV had moved mostly away from, you know, music.
This is the best interview of Weird Al I have seen, and I was brimming with a smile thruout the interview. I was surprise that he is very well verse in music composition. A highly educated comedy musician. I love the nirvana parody with the army of kazoo players!
he's a college grad, graduated at 13 or some such, Harvard I think, degrees in music physics & math & something else I think getta goog it!
Proud to say I've been a Weird Al Fan since 6th grade, listening to my "Weird Al" Yankovic in 3-D" cassette over and over. I've now gotten my three nephews into him, and even dragged my wife to his sold out concert at the Hollywood Bowl in 2016. And now she is a fan! He's more than a gimmick- real musical genius, and a heck of a nice fellow.
Great interview, man! Good job not interrupting. I can't stand when interviewers constantly interject, interrupt, and rush their guests along. Nice chill vibe- good listening skills - more like a conversation than rushing through a set list of questions.
UHF is a fantastic movie! I've turned to it through some hard times and it always makes me laugh! And I've seen Al live a few times now, highly recommend!!
I was 12-13 when UHF came out, I thought it was amazing since day 1 ! I have re-told, re-acted, skits from it many times. In this interview to hear how Weird Al took such a deep look into an artist before covering them was amazing ! Much love !
It's amazing as I look back on that time just how important Weird Al was to us. At the time, I was like "he cracks me up!" and then a shrug and move on. Today, I'm like "he really did help to define my youth" LOL
No truer words were ever spoken!
As we get older, we become wiser!
Weird Al puts on a fantastic live show. Go if you can. You will not be disappointed. Great interview POR.
☕☕🎶🎵🎶
Did anybody else hear the Dr. signing off with "Stay Demented!" at the end of the video? Dr. Demento introduced Al and so many of my favorite tracks, mishaping my sense of humor for life!
Underneath the Smogberry trees...
Bedtime for me was right when Dr. Demento's show started, so I'd lie there in bed and listen to all these amazing and funny songs. If I found myself laughing too loud, my mom would burst in and yell at me to "GO TO SLEEP!!"
"any original song is not truly original because you are always inspired by somebody, its just how well you hide it"........ thats a helluva quote.
If you go to a comic con and he’s one of the guest, you gotta go to him because he’s one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet
I agree. He seemed like the neighbor coming over to borrow some eggs!
What’s the next comic con he will attend?
This is the type of interview where I'm smiling the whole time!! Excellent stuff.
Al is a genius.
I also love his Amish Paradise!
YEs!
Another great interview. Al puts in the work, a LOT of work, and it has paid him.
Saw Weird Al in concert years ago and it was fantastic!What a great show he puts on.
love this interview Prof! It's like two long lost friends talking about the good times. That's why you're different from other interviewers! Keep up the great work!
I saw him in concert at the Kern County Fairgrounds sometime in the 90s. His stage performance to me was as fun as his videos.
Very cool!
My wife got his autograph at the Central Washington State Fair sometime in the early 90s.
One of your best interviews. Weird Al is so entertaining.
When I was a kid, I thought "I want a new duck" WAS the original 😂 My parents didn't play Huey Lewis at home, but my brother listened to weird Al on repeat, and I'd heard the parody on one of those primetime disney specials that we used to get so excited about, so when I did finally hear "I want a new drug," I thought it was a rip-off, and I was NOT impressed 🤣
Ha ha! Very cool!
Have you heard him and the band do straight covers? Holy schmoly, they've all got SERIOUS chops !
Haha!
Hahaha
_5:50__ is the timestamp._
This will always make me happy (seeing you interview Weird Al). I can't wait to see the next part. Also can't wait to see him at the upcoming tour!
Weitd Al for over four decades has made us laugh and no matter what age you are he will make you smile and brighten your day
Good call George!
My 10 year old is a huge fan.
He’s one for all generations.
@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 that he is and I've been a fan since the 80s those 80s albums are timeless and the humor of the parodies are still funny and also love his originals to which are excellent to
@ProfessorofRock-While watching, I couldn't help but notice how it got darker as the interview went on. Just goes to show the complexities involved with doing these. This is why I/we appreciate you so much, Professor. Thank you!
"Smells like Nirvana" was always one of my favorites. Him poking fun of the fact those lyrics were unintelligible **chefs kiss**. And the music video? Absolutely hilarious.
On the same album was my absolute favorite of his originals, "You Don't Love Me Anymore."
"I lost a little bit of self esteem, That time that you made it with the whole hockey team."
Still makes me giggle.
Great video. A friend purchased 2 tickets to attend a May 2022 tour /w meet & greet, and I was who he'd picked to go with / birthday present related thing. I am old enough to remember in elementary school, through classmantes, gaining awareness to Weird Al. I have a vague recollection of a music teacher changing up the lyrics of Beat It so that the students could learn to play various rhythms, and those of us who could ready music at an early age had various keyboard percussion instruments to play the melody. Never had cable growing up, so never had MTV. But, I have seen and enjoyed PBS Victor Borge & PDQ Bach who play around with classical music comically. Weird Al has been a favorite for decades :) - - - great video!
Weird Al is respectful of the original artist and adds new life and another dimension to the song.
This was a fantastic interview! Both of you were so at ease with each other and the stories were fun to hear!
White & Nerdy is my favorite, with Donny Osmond in the video! Cracks me up just thinking about it.
So good!
I remember the tweet he put out for the casting call. I oddly thought it was strange, that he'd have a staffer do it. Nah, he still does plenty of things himself.
What no Yoda?
Old Donny was just having fun.
And Seth Green!
Thanks for another Weird Al interview!! Keep them coming. He is so interesting.
More to come!
I for one loved UHF, had the vhs and now have the dvd. Love ya Al, you are the GOAT!
Yeah, but do you have the CD?
@@andyevans2336 Of course I do, how could I not?
Thanks for this interview. Weird Al has always been so entertaining!
Weird Al has always been my favorite comic rock singer and accordionist of the 80's & 90's and still is today great to him
again here have a great weekend and thank you Professor.
🎶🎤🎸🎸🎹🪗🥁🎶
Thanks Roger! What's your favorite song by him?
@ProfessorofRock all of his 80's songs especially those that were
shown on MTV like Eat It, Like a Surgeon and Amish Paradise as well
as UHF movie thank you Professor.🎶🎤🎸🎸🎹🪗🥁🎶
Who’s your second favorite comic rock singer and accordionist of the 80’s & 90’s? 😊
Love Weird Al...Great interview!!! I loved UHF when it came out and still love it to this day!!!
Absolutely love Weird Al!
When someone begs you to make fun of their song, you know you are admired. Music is better with Weird Al in it. 👍
Thanks Professor!
I hope everyone has a great weekend, and is appreciative to be here to enjoy it. ❤️
@@Sweet--Richard.4981
😂😂😂
Life is too short to hate. 👍
THanks Roger!
It truly is.
@@rogerdeahl9629❤
Man, bits of Polkas on 45 are still on high rotation on my ear worm playlist all these years later. I can’t hear Hendrix or the Stones without Al’s medley chiming in. I love that guy, the man’s a genuine treasure! ❤❤❤
First exposure to Weird Al: "Another One Rides the Bus," and maybe because he was unknown at the time, a couple DJs were taking credit for it when I heard it.
Obviously, got past that, and have thoroughly enjoyed his career since. "White and Nerdy" still sends me rolling. I revel in his original ones, too. "One More Minute" is a nonpareil humor piece, and "Bob" is simply epic.
I've loved Weird Al for 40 years! "Dare To Be Stupid" was the first cassette tape I ever bought and listened to front to back! I can't wait to see him this summer
Weird Al has played our county fair so many times. They gave him a key to the city.
The way he kept thinking his career was over reminded me of a quote from an old episode of Ducktales, "He's had more comebacks than the boomerang."
That summer UHF came out... Best. Movie. Ever. (comedy)
Years ago now when my daughter and I were doing some yard work together (back when she always wanted to help and wasn't too cool for me yet) and she was thirsty. So what do I say?
"YOU GET TO DRINK FROM THE FIRE HOSE!"
... I still sometimes see that kid getting blasted and laugh my ass off like it's the first time I saw it. Love that film.
Al is such a treasure. I remember him from my childhood and still to this day he remains fresh and understanding of music today. He is beyond a satirist or parody genius. He is a unique genius of interpretation and mimicry to a degree I just don't think anyone else has shown similar ability in the music industry.
Weird Al and DEVO need to do a world tour together. It'd be epic, and a little weird.
Hence, his name😂
I agree. That would BE EPIC!
@ProfessorofRock - Faith No More on the tour, too?
@@georgeharris6851thats a great idea, itd be like a musical kings of comedy!!
@@georgeharris6851😂
Al has been in my earholes since 1984... Haven't seen him live in forever, but the 2025 tour brings him to Vegas. Taking my oldest son, whose first concert was Al at a county fair. Looking forward to seeing the genius in person again!
I love love love like a surgeon! It totally brings back memories!
For sure! Did you have the album?
@@ProfessorofRock, no, I didn't. I would get singles. So I know there are a lot of great ones I probably haven't heard.
Weird Al is just a nice, down to earth, genuine dude.
I was a chubby, awkward, nerdy kid, and in an odd way, "Weird Al' Yankovic helped me find my tribe.
Thanks for sharing that!
Weird Al seems like the best guy to interview. Genuine, funny, and engaged. Meeting him in person would be amazing! I got started on 'Alapalooza' and haven't quit listening! Favouite songs - Tacky, Smells Like Nirvana, White and Nerdy and especially All About The Pentiums'
I always wanted to see Al do Alice in Chains, Man in a Box. Theres... a Jack... in the Box...
Gotta love Weird Al. Every so often in a virtual reality game I play, where I DJ, I do a parody set with the original song then the parody. It goes over very well. Kudos and props to Al!!
Loved this video and love Weird Al!!! I loved the UHF movie too. "Wait a minute. Do I still get to be the janitor?!" Best line ever. One of my favorite songs of his is Midnight Star, the original about a National Enquier-esq tabloid. He's so damn funny.
Remember hearing My Bologna on the Doctor Demento Show, circa 1980, and even with just the accordion and voice, it was a great parody that outclassed pretty much everything else in the good Doctor's stable of acts.
m m m m my balona!!
thank you for doing this interview. weird al was a staple in my house. i had all the cassettes. weird al is the best. he's so humble and chill.
My favorite Weird Al story was how he got Nirvana to agree with his Teen Spirit parody. Unable to get in touch with them, his UHF co-star and friend Victoria Jackson got them on the phone when they guested on SNL. Kurt Cobain’s response “Well, is it going to be about food?”
He told me about this!
When AL told him it was going to be about nobody being able to understand what Kurt was saying, Kurt thought it was hilarious.
I loved Victoria's 'I Am Not A Bimbo' sketch on SNL. She surprised me on Politically Incorrect with her conservative take... she was also correct. President Clinton should have resigned in 1998.
@ it annoys me that people today can’t separate art from the artist. Not everybody is going to agree with political views, but unless the person actually commits a crime, it’s not worth getting upset about and disliking them.
@@JeffTaggart-p6o Horseshit. If one of your political views is that some demographic groups deserve less rights than others, then you absolutely should dislike them for it.