Wonders: Bobby McFerrin

Switched on Pop

Vox Media Podcast Network

Music Interviews, Music History, Music, Music Commentary

4.6 • 2.7K Ratings

🗓️ 31 January 2023

⏱️ 35 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

In 1988, Bobby McFerrin recorded a song a cappella with a simple message: not to worry, and just enjoy life. That song, aptly titled “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” topped the charts and become one of the most well known one-hit wonders of all time. In doing so, it also propelled McFerrin into the spotlight, winning him three Grammy awards and an eternal place in pop culture. His career, though, is more than just the Big Mouth Billy Bass: a deep dive reveals an incredible career in jazz, folk, and classical music as well as a remarkable command of his own voice. This episode of Switched on Pop, we explore the history behind "Don't Worry, Be Happy" and the ensuing legacy of Bobby McFerrin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcript

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0:00.0	You're finally at that hot new spot.
0:02.8	The one your friends keep raving about.
0:05.0	Sitting across from your date.
0:06.5	It's going...
0:07.5	Another round?
0:08.5	Really well.
0:09.5	And that dish you've been dying to try?
0:11.5	Oh, it's headed your way.
0:13.2	You can smell it.
0:14.2	You're it sizzling fresh off that skillet as it comes closer, closer, and served.
0:20.1	Go ahead.
0:21.1	Enjoy.
0:22.1	After your phone sneaks a bite first.
0:23.8	When you're with AMACs, it's not if it's going to happen.
0:26.4	But when? American Express. Don't live life without it.
0:43.8	Welcome to Switched On Pop. I'm a musicologist Nate Sloan.
0:47.5	And I'm producer, Rianna Cruz.
0:49.5	Okay. Rianna, I want you to take a look at something for me.
0:55.5	I got you.
0:57.5	Okay.
0:58.5	What do you see?
0:59.5	Oh, man.
	...

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