Sidetracked

Here’s something I never thought I’d write: Los Lobos is covering the Seven Dwarfs.

The band’s next album, “Los Lobos Goes Disney,” will feature the acclaimed band covering songs from classic animated movies. Among the songs covered are “Bare Necessities” (from “The Jungle Book”), “Oo-De-Lally” (”Robin Hood”) and “Heigh Ho,” the song the industrious little guys sang in “Snow White.” The band also sing songs from popular Disneyland rides, including the Haunted House.

So that was kind of interesting. But then I thought: We could run with this idea. Because while Disney songs were pretty good, let’s not forget the great songs of Warner Bros., Hanna-Barbera, etc.

So here are some songs for Los Lobos to cover on their next album:

 * “Crambo,” Jerry’s Uncle Pecos.

In “Tom & Jerry,” Jerry’s Uncle Pecos was a pretty good country singer — even if you couldn’t make out the words he was singing. And he strums his guitar so vigorously, he always breaks a string, requiring him to pluck Tom’s whiskers as replacements. Check out this video to read the awesome lyrics. Of course, some say the title of the song is “Crambone,” others say “Cranbow” or ”Kranbuhl.” But it’s actually a song called “Froggy Went a-courtin’.” Hear Tex Ritter sing it here.

* “Bugs Bunny & Tweety Show” Bugs Bunny and Daffy.

I wanted to include the Bugs Bunny song with the Chorus Boys (From “What’s Up, Doc?”) with the great lyrics: “Oh we’re the boys of the chorus / We hope you like our show / We know you’re rooting for us / but now we have to go.” But I couldn’t find the clip on YouTube. So this is the next best thing.

* “Hello My Baby,” Michigan J. Frog.

Man, this frog could sing — when he wanted to, that is. Pretty good dancer, too. But he will not be exploited.

* “Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t My Baby,” Tom Cat.

Tom doesn’t talk much, but he’s got a great voice. Here he does a tune Fats Waller must have appreciated.   

* “If You’re Ever Down in Texas,” Tom Cat.

Not only could he sing, but he could sing a variety of genres. Here he is doing a country number — again, while serenading a hot kitty — this time with cows backing him up. Of course, Jerry exposes him for pulling a Milli Vanilli.

* “Scooby-Doo Theme”

This is just a catchy song. Too bad it wasn’t covered by a more worthy band, like, I don’t know — the Monkees. But this kid does a pretty good job.

* “Hong Kong Phooey,” Hong Kong Phooey

The theme song for this short-lived classic was actually sung by the voice of the main character, Scatman Crothers. Apparently, I wasn’t the first to consider this for a cover. Check out Sublime’s cool cover here. I’d love to see the Red Hot Chili Peppers tackle this one.

* “The Flintstones Theme.”

Yabba-dabba doo! This song has been covered by Homer Simpson and these guys who play it with hand farts.

* Baby On Board,” The Be Sharps.

Speaking of “The Simpsons,” here’s one from Homer’s Barbershop Quartet. Great harmonies here. You’ve got to check out this guy, who does all the parts to this song by himself. Then check out his other a cappella covers.

Posted on October 15th, 2009 by Pat
Filed under: Music