h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I should look that up.

Johann Strauss Jr wrote a tic tak polka
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTsLciHDRCU

Is that the same piece?

Nope. The tune was composed by Gaetano Lama of Naples (1886-1950).

http://www.findagrave.com/memorial/168971449/gaetano-lama

I have a feeling S Gusk and RJ Martino, who wrote the lyrics, took liberties with this classical composer.

The song was recorded by Frankie Yankovic. Frankie Yankovic was a big polka guy. He was not related to Weird Al, but he WAS the reason Weird Al became an accordionist.

According to what I read, Weird Al's parents had to decide between buying a guitar or an accordion for his 6th birthday. They decided the world needed another accordionist named Yankovic.

Frankie's band:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMA2VdiC4SM

Oh, I found the Gaetano Lama song. It's not better. But it is in Italian.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pod3Y4l-5So

This is all fascinating, Dmitri. Have I ever complained about the video links that you provide? No. Not once. Nor do I ever plan to.

As I've mentioned before, my mother was a huge Lawrence Welk fan (I won't get into the question of Mr. Welk's actual talent, just the obvious fact that his fans enjoyed hearing him). Was it any surprise that when I was a teenager she arranged for me to have accordian lessons? Did become much good at playing it? Who cares? It was fun while it lasted.

What matters is doing what you love, and trying to minimize any inconvenience that this causes to friends and family.


So, play polkas to your hearts content, Dmitri . There probably aren't *enough* polka videos on youtube. Play piano, organ, even melodica (I once had a melodica which was my pride and joy until it melted in the interior of my father's care in Elko, Nevada once Summer. That story will not likely see light at this site).

Three cheers for people who are doing things they are passionate about. It's far better than being passive.

Amen to that!