Strange Song Titles: A Journey Through Bizarre and Unique Titles in Hit Songs
The world of music is filled with hits that resonate with millions, but sometimes, it's the titles that stand out. From strange to bizarre, these unique song titles have left a lasting impact on listeners. Let's explore some of the most fascinatingly unorthodox song titles from classic hits and beyond.
Titular Traditions: A Sampler
Perhaps the most iconic hits with strange titles come from various eras and genres. These songs often defy the conventional expectations of what a song title should be, leaving listeners both perplexed and intrigued.
The Bellamy Brothers – “If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body Would You Hold It Against Me”
From the country music world, the Bellamy Brothers' hit from 1969, “If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body Would You Hold It Against Me (Inna Gada Da Vida),” doesn’t fit the typical hit song mold. The incorporation of the word “Inna Gada Da Vida” (meaning “I can't help it” in Japanese) in the title adds an interesting global twist.
Pink Floyd – “Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered in a Cave and Grooving on a Pict”
Known for their unconventional and cryptic titles, Pink Floyd’s 1969 song “Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered in a Cave and Grooving on a Pict” is a prime example. The nonsensical title makes it stand out from other mainstream hits, reflecting its cultural significance in the 1960s psychedelic scene.
The Beatles – “Ob La Di, Ob La Da”
From the Beatles’ 1968 album The White Album, the track “Ob La Di, Ob La Da” has a rhythm and rhyme to it but seems to have no immediate meaning. The playful title fits perfectly with the album's artistic and experimental nature.
Unforgettable Oddities: Non-Hit List
Here are some lesser-known hit songs with strange and quirky titles that might surprise you:
Rush – I Think I’m Going Bald Queen – I’m Going Slightly Mad Fountains of Wayne – Stacy’s Mom Train – 50 Ways to Say GoodbyeThese songs, while not necessarily mainstream hits, are nonetheless memorable due to their unique titles and catchy tunes.
More Experimental Titles
Some artists have taken the concept of unique titles to new heights:
Monte Video And The Cassettes – Shoop Shoop Diddy Wop Cumma Cumma Wang Dang Pink Floyd – Several Species of Small Furry Animals Gathered Together In A Cave And Grooving With A Pict The Police – De Do Do Do De Da Da Da Mark Knopfler – Every Time I Eat Vegetables It Makes Me Think Of YouThese titles are so creative that they might as well be challenges to remember, making the songs memorable even without their music alone.
Unsolvable Mysteries: No Title?
There are even songs that don’t come with titles at all:
Elton John – This Song Has No TitleThis title is a clever play on words and highlights the sophisticated yet baffling nature of some songwriting. It also invites curious listeners to focus on the music rather than the lyrics or title.
Conclusion: The Art of the Strange Title
From Fred Astair and Jane Powell’s “How Could You Believe Me When I Said I Loved You When You Know I’ve Been A Liar All My Life” to Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty’s “You’re the Reason Our Kids Are So Ugly,” these strange titles embody an artistic expression that challenges and captivates.
One Australian band, Primitive Radio Gods, added to the trivia pile with the hit song “Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth with Money in My Hand.” Its title is not only a mouthful but also a puzzle, inviting listeners to ponder its meaning.
Behind every strange and memorable title, there lies a story and a songwriter's vision. These titles contribute to the mystique of music and the enduring appeal of the songs that carry them.