

584: No Such Thing As Drinking A Sock Full Of Custard
30 snips May 22, 2025
John Lloyd, the founder of QI and a British comedy legend, joins the discussion. The hosts dive into Picasso's quirky life, discussing his tumultuous relationships and legacy in modern culture. They explore the art of Foley, revealing the whimsical tales behind sound effects in storytelling. The conversation shifts to the conservation of gorillas in Rwanda, featuring the unique tradition of naming baby gorillas after celebrities. Finally, they reflect on ancient naming practices and their cultural significance, blending humor with insightful anecdotes.
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Picasso's Fiery Birth Revival
- Picasso was initially thought stillborn and revived by his uncle blowing cigar smoke into his face.
- He became a lifelong smoker but never inhaled cigarette smoke deeply.
Anthems Crafted from Afar
- The national song of St Helena was written by an American who never visited, inspired by a postcard.
- Guinea-Bissau's anthem music was also written by an outsider, showing unique anthem origins.
BBC's Ingenious Foley Studio
- The BBC Sound Department's Foley studio features a coat made of fabrics to imitate clothing sounds.
- Foley artists creatively recreate sounds live, like a zip becoming a perfect parcel opening noise.