Weird Studies Episode 194: Animal Songs, with Meredith Michael
7 snips
Jul 23, 2025 
Meredith Michael, a musicologist and PhD candidate at Indiana University, joins to explore the enchanting world of animal songs. The conversation dives into the complex interplay between human music and animal communication, featuring pieces like The Beatles' and Björk's works. They ponder how songs reflect our relationship with animals and discuss the awe-inspiring sounds of whales that challenge our perception of intelligence. From inter-species connections to musical mythologies, this talk captivates with its blend of art, nature, and philosophy.
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Cat Ownership Reveals Animal Mystery
- J.F. Martel shares how living with a cat revealed the fundamental strangeness of human-animal relations.
- Unlike dogs, cats keep an enigmatic distance that sharpens awareness of animal otherness.
Monkey Symbolism Ambiguity
- The Beatles' song "Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey" has multiple interpretations for "monkey": addiction, Yoko Ono, or Buddhist monkey mind.
- This ambiguity shows how animals in music often create mystery rather than clarity.
Beatles' Vocal Edge Rooted in Rock
- The Beatles' vocal style incorporates a controlled vocal grit inspired by Little Richard's intense, almost shamanic singing.
- This new vocal approach added emotional power and complexity to their animal-themed songs.
