"The Biggest Ball of Twine in Minnesota" by "Weird Al" Yankovic
Strong Songs
The Most Extensive Chord Progression Ever
Yankovic was constantly extending his phrases, adding new melodies and chord progressions to each verse. It's what makes the song so engaging when you listen to it, whether you realize that's happening or not. Kim Bullard synthesizers make their first appearance on "Weird Al" The choir-like backup vocals are beautifully performed by the Waters sisters.
It's time for a Strong Songs road trip, as Kirk unravels one of "Weird Al" Yankovic's most understated, grandiose songs. So come along, for a journey through long-form story songs, sea shanty refrains, synth feelings, and an unexpectedly grand finale. We'll stay until the security guards throw us out.
Album: UHF: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack and Other Stuff, 1989
Listen/Buy via Songwhip
Also Featured/Discussed:
- "Spam," "Money For Nothing/Beverly Hillbillies," "Hot Rocks Polka," "Attack of the Radioactive Hamsters from a Planet Near Mars," and "UHF," all from UHF: OMPSAOS, 1989
- "Polka Your Eyes Out" by various artists, arranged by Al Yankovic for Off The Deep End, 1992
- "Dare to be Stupid" by Al Yankovic from Dare to be Stupid, 1985
- "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" by Gordon LIghtfoot from Summertime Dream, 1976
- "30,000 Pounds of Bananas" by Harry Chapin from Verities & Balderdash, 1974
- "Lowlands Away," traditional, from Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag
- Audio from VH1 Behind The Music: "Weird Al" Yankovic, 1999
Outro Soloist: Casey Atkins
Casey is a Sydney-based musician who splits his time between gigging, guitar teaching, and school teaching. He plays and sings with various artists and shows, as well as with original bands The April Family and Fallon Cush. Find him online at caseyonguitar.com.
Update 10/21: Corrected the pronunciation of Harry Chapin's name and the location of the Boll Weevil Monument.
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