Weird Al

This book is the first to address in a serious way the impact and meaning of the music of Weird Al Yankovic. Though everyone knows his name, Yankovic is often dismissed as a novelty. His music builds on a rich American tradition of parody song, with many levels of significationhumorous, insulting, political, often at the same time. His songs, including his original compositions, make us laugh but also have a point of view, be it on society, popular culture, food, or words themselves. Very few other artists have created music so dense in meaning and for so long, and its high time we recognize Yankovics cloyingly humorous appeal. Through original interviews with the man himself, Lily Hirsch addresses Yankovics relationship to past parody song as well as his unique approach to the art form. Focusing mainly on his fourteen studio albums, the book explores his music based on themes like insult, politics, race, and word abuse. It also discusses his reputation as one of the music industrys good guys. In todays age of incivility (political and otherwise), his nice-guy persona stands out and has helped win him fiercely loyal fans whove found in his music a certain acceptance and affirmation. This book is for those fans but also invites music enthusiasts of all stripes to consider and reconsider Yankovics music.