Photo courtesy of “Weird Al” Yankovic.
This is SOUND ADVICE, a weekly destination for playlists curated by Interview’s friends, enemies, and lovers. Over the past few weeks, we’ve gathered playlists from Holly Humberstone, DJ Bloodcore, and Addison Rae. This week’s guest is none other than “Weird Al” Yankovic, a man who has spent more than a decade insisting that music can, and should be, funny. The universally beloved 64-year-old musician, comedian and actor hit his musical stride many moons ago when he started to parody a number of mainstream hits, subverting the lyrics to form his own twisted musicology. But now, he’s back to gift us with Polkamania!, a melody track that infuses some of the top charting songs of the past few years—including, but not limited to, “Flowers,” “Bad Guy,” and “Old Town Road.” Before the track and accompanying video drops tomorrow, the King of Weird was kind enough to share his playlist, social security number, and the most famous contact in his address book.
———
Where do you dance? Only on stage, where looking like an idiot is somewhat appropriate.
The world is ending. What are you wearing? Obviously not clean underwear.
L.A. or NY? I truly love NY, but L.A. is where I was born and raised. Or are you asking where to get the best bagels? In that case, probably NY.
What was the first record you ever bought? The single of “Classical Gas” by Mason Williams.
Best movie needle-drop: “Surfin’ Bird” in Pink Flamingos.
Which 80s fashion trend do you want to make a comeback? Parachute pants.
What song is playing in heaven? “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley.
What’s the worst vegan substitute? Veal.
Do you have any rules for life? Do unto others. And just keep doing it. Even if they beg you to stop.
Wired or bluetooth headphones? Wired for the laptop, bluetooth for the phone.
Go-to karaoke song? I avoid karaoke like the plague. But if I absolutely have to, I guess “Baby Shark.”
What’s something no one knows about “Weird Al” Yankovic? My social security number is 534-48-0126. I just always thought it was best not to make that kind of thing public.
What song on this playlist makes you smile? 65% of them. The rest of them just make me kinda smirk.
Drop your curly hair routine: The most important tip is, make absolutely sure you have the DNA required for curly hair.
Who’s the king of Polka? Frankie Yankovic (no relation).
Favorite sound effect? (eye poke)
After decades in the entertainment business, do you have any enemies? I never liked Hitler. I’m GLAD he’s dead.
Who’s the most famous contact in your phone? Depends who you ask, but I’m gonna say Eric Idle.
What makes someone weird? A number of things, but a lack of oxygen to the brain is a good one.