12 Top Comedy Songs 1970s
The 1970s was a standout decade for music, with a diverse range of genres and exceptional performances. Amidst the rise of disco and the emergence of iconic artists, humorous songs also made their mark.
From the irreverent humor of Steve Martin’s “King Tut” to the quirky charm of Jimmy Buffet’s “Pencil Thin Mustache,” the 70s showcased a wealth of comedic talent that left an indelible mark on music history.
Here, we’ve listed some of our favorite comedy songs of the 1970s that you must check out. So, keep reading to appreciate the humor and creativity that the 70s had to offer us!
Best Novelty and Comedy Songs of the 1970s
Here are a few of the many comedy songs of the 1970s:
1. King Tut – Steve Martin
Steve Martin, a comedy icon, brought us more than just laughs on the screen. In the late ’70s, he wowed audiences with his musical comedy skills on Saturday Night Live, and one standout was “King Tut.”
This quirky tune, paired with Martin’s trademark goofy expressions, had viewers in stitches. Fast forward to today, and “King Tut” has found new life on platforms like TikTok, thanks to influencer royalty, Trisha Paytas.
The song’s lyrics are a playful jab at the extravagance of ancient Egyptian rulers. Lines like “Buried with a donkey (Funky Tut), He’s my favorite honky!” show Martin’s knack for clever wordplay and irreverent humor.
“King Tut” isn’t just a song; it’s a timeless comedic gem that continues to tickle funny bones across generations.
2. Rasputin – Boney M.
Boney M., a disco group formed in the 1970s, brought us some seriously fun tunes. With their flashy costumes and infectious beats, they were a hit on the dance floor. But one song that stands out is “Rasputin.”
This catchy 1978 track is a kitsch masterpiece that tells the wild story of the infamous Russian mystic, Rasputin. The lyrics, if you listen closely, are downright hilarious. Boney M. doesn’t hold back in poking fun at this historical figure, making for a song that’s as amusing as it is catchy.
Yet, “Rasputin” isn’t the only gem in Boney M.’s repertoire. They had a string of other hits, like “Daddy Cool” and “Ma Baker,” that kept the party going.
Even today, their songs remain popular, proving that Boney M. was more than just a 70s one-hit wonder—they were a musical force to be reckoned with.
3. Convoy – C.W. McCall
C.W. McCall, the mastermind behind “Convoy,” is a notable figure in the world of novelty songs. This chart-topping hit transcended genres, making waves on the country and pop charts.
“Convoy” spins the tale of a fictional trucker rebellion trekking from the West Coast to the East Coast of the United States without a single pit stop. With colorful characters like “Rubber Duck,” “Pig Pen,” and “Sodbuster,” the song is packed with humor and charm.
Beyond its comedic appeal, “Convoy” sparked a flurry of parodies, solidifying its status as a comedic classic. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and cultural impact.
C.W. McCall’s legacy extends beyond “Convoy,” but this song has undoubtedly secured its place among the best comedy tunes of the ’70s.
4. Run Joey Run – David Geddes
David Geddes crafted “Run Joey Run,” a ’70s gem that’s as amusing as it is melodramatic. The song unfolds like a mini-drama, with a plot centered around a young woman pleading with her lover, Joey, to run from her father who disapproves of their relationship.
What sets this song apart is its unique structure, featuring the voice of the distressed young woman, a choir, and Geddes’ narration. The juxtaposition creates a hilarious yet strangely captivating listening experience.
The music video encapsulates the essence of ’70s kitsch, with Geddes earnestly staring into the camera amidst random shots of “Julie,” the distressed lover.
As if that wasn’t enough, the song gained new comedic life with its cover on the show “Glee,” delivering one of the series’ most memorable moments.
5. My Ding-A-Ling – Chuck Berry
Chuck Berry’s “My Ding-A-Ling” is a playful novelty song that caused quite a stir upon its release. With its catchy melody and innocent-sounding title, the song is laden with innuendo and double entendre, centered around a euphemism for a certain male body part.
Despite its lighthearted nature, “My Ding-A-Ling” faced considerable backlash, with many radio stations refusing to play it and some even attempting to ban it altogether due to its suggestive content.
However, over time, the song has become a beloved classic, cherished for its cheeky humor and catchy tune. Today, we can listen to “My Ding-A-Ling” and chuckle at its playful antics, appreciating it as a quirky gem in Chuck Berry’s repertoire.
6. You’re the One That I Want – Grease
“You’re the One That I Want” from Grease is not just any popular song; it’s also a humorous one, thanks to the film’s playful approach to teen romance.
Picture John Travolta’s infectious laugh as Danny Zuko, coupled with Olivia Newton-John’s daring leather pants—these elements add a layer of hilarity to the iconic song.
Moreover, the movie’s climax, where Danny and Sandy literally soar into the sky in their car, epitomizes the film’s whimsical take on love.
From catchy tunes like “Summer Nights” to the electrifying energy of “You’re the One That I Want,” Grease’s soundtrack is a comedic masterpiece that perfectly complements the movie’s humorous portrayal of young love.
7. The Streaks – Ray Stevens
Ray Stevens’ “The Streak” is a hilarious novelty song that captures the zany spirit of the 1970s streaking craze.
Stevens, known for his witty and satirical songs, hit the mark with this track, poking fun at the bizarre trend of streaking, where people would suddenly strip naked and run through public places.
The lyrics of “The Streak” are both witty and absurd, perfectly encapsulating the absurdity of the streaking phenomenon. Despite its tongue-in-cheek nature, the song received mixed reception upon its release, with some finding it uproariously funny and others deeming it too risqué
8. Ben – Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Ben” might seem like an unusual addition to a list of comedy songs, but that’s precisely what makes it comedy gold. The R&B legend serenading about his affection for his pet rat is certainly unexpected and quirky.
Despite the unconventional subject, Jackson’s undeniable talent shines through in the song, which became a commercial hit. In fact, “Ben” even earned Jackson a Golden Globe for Best Song, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1973, “Ben” remains a testament to Michael Jackson’s ability to captivate audiences with his emotive vocals, even when singing about a furry friend.
9. Telephone Man – Meri Wilson
Meri Wilson, a novelty singer from the ’70s, brought us the hilariously catchy “Telephone Man.” With its upbeat tempo and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, the song tells the story of a woman’s flirtatious encounter with a telephone repairman.
Wilson’s playful delivery and witty wordplay make “Telephone Man” a delightful comedic gem that perfectly captures the whimsical spirit of the era.
Despite being relatively unknown, Wilson’s contribution to the world of novelty songs is undeniable, with “Telephone Man” earning its spot as a memorable and humorous tune from the ’70s.
10. Sweet Transvestite – The Rocky Horror Picture Show
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a quirky, offbeat movie that has achieved cult status over the years. Known for its unconventional storyline and outlandish characters, the film’s soundtrack is filled with catchy tunes, with “Sweet Transvestite” being a standout.
While not a novelty song in the traditional sense, “Sweet Transvestite” is comedic gold, thanks to its witty lyrics and the exquisite performance by actor Tim Curry. Curry’s portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, complete with glamorous attire and sassy demeanor, adds to the song’s charm and humor.
Despite its unconventional nature, “Sweet Transvestite” has become a beloved anthem among fans of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, cementing its place as a memorable and entertaining song from the cult classic film.
11. Pencil Thin Mustache – Jimmy Buffet
Jimmy Buffet, the renowned singer-songwriter known for his laid-back style and tropical tunes, delivered the witty and satirical “Pencil Thin Mustache.”
This nostalgic song reminisces about the cultural icons of the ’50s and ’60s, from Hollywood stars to pop singers, all while poking fun at the trend of pencil-thin mustaches.
Buffet’s clever lyrics and charming delivery make “Pencil Thin Mustache” a humorous and nostalgic trip down memory lane.
12. Mr. Jaws – Dickie Goodman
In “Mr. Jaws” by Dickie Goodman, the novelty song takes a hilarious turn as Goodman interviews a shark, parodying the iconic movie Jaws.
With cleverly inserted snippets of popular songs and witty banter, Goodman creates a whimsical dialogue that captures the absurdity of the premise.
The song’s playful take on the blockbuster film adds to its charm, making “Mr. Jaws” a comedic gem that’s sure to leave listeners laughing.
Final Thoughts
The 1970s was a decade for music brimming with laughter and innovation, as evidenced by the wealth of humorous songs that emerged during this era.
For example, the infectious humor of Steve Martin’s “King Tut” and the whimsical charm of Dickie Goodman’s “Mr. Jaws” just capture the spirit of the times with their wit and irreverence.
The era’s iconic artists, from Jimmy Buffet to Michael Jackson, demonstrated their comedic prowess through unforgettable tunes that continue to entertain audiences to this day.
So, here’s to the comedy songs of the 1970s—a delightful reminder of a bygone era filled with humor, creativity, and unforgettable melodies.