Silly Songs That Tickle Funny Bones

Silly songs that tickle funny bones? Zany singer-songwriter, Dan Crow, whose ditties about kissing cows, well-chewed bubble gum and a peace-nik named Yambo are a giggle, is a master at them. So is a truly wacky Canadian singer named Al Simmons, with wild and witty word play that delights a kid’s sense of the ridiculous.

Storytelling with a smile, served up by such accomplished humorists as Daniel Pinkwater and Bill Harley. Romps through the ups and downs of childhood by a slew of wonderful musical artists. Audio books that are read with just the right narrative touch to add an irresistible dimension to an author’s work.

Of course, a terrific family movie can be a blast for families to share, but entertainment that’s listened to, rather than watched, goes just about anywhere—during travel time, chore time, bedtime—and the best part is that the imagination supplies the pictures. Here are some releases that come with quality smile time.

No! and Here Come the ABCs
Ages: 2 & Up
Rounder Records Corporation, $17.98 (CD)

This Grammy-winning alt-pop duo’s first CD is off-the-wall wacky and as playful as all get out with songs that gleefully bend reality. Its second ABC’s release follows suit, and manages to be educational to boot.

Dan Crow Live: Songs and Comedy for Kids & Kin.
Ages: 4 - 6 yrs.
Performed By: Dan Crow
Allshouse Family Entertainment, $20.00 (CD)

Children’s music veteran Dan Crow, a pun-master and word-play wizard, is about as goofy as they come, yet nearly every one of his silly songs and shaggy dog stories has an educational aim. He just thinks that if kids are going to get acquainted with homophones and homonyms, vowel sounds and consonants, they might as well have a giggle doing it.

Beethoven’s Wig and Beethoven’s Wig 2: More Sing Along Symphonies
Ages: 4 & Up
Rounder Records Corporation, $12.98 (CD)

Richard Perlmutter’s witty, Grammy-nominated albums combine humor, satire and an infectious appreciation for classical music by adding lyrics to famous works by great composers.

The Town Around the Bend
Ages: 4 & Up
Round River Records, $15.00 (CD)

Humorist Bill Harley is in top form in this tall tale about the zany town he lives in, where pillows sing, belly buttons are not what you think, and it’s "Nighty Noodles" to all.

It’s a Puzzle
Ages: 5 - 12 yrs.
Producer: Trout Records, $14.98 (CD)

Inventive duo Trout Fishing in America melds musical sophistication with daffy lyrics in songs that fly far afield, from cafeteria lunches to a black bug looking for a belly rub.

The Moose Tales
Ages: 5 & Up
By: Daniel Pinkwater
Audio Literature, Check Your Local Stores or Library for Pricing & Availability

An oldie but goody, one of children’s book author Pinkwater’s all-time best for ages 5 and up and most definitely for adults, too. In this collection of hilarious tales, read by Pinkwater, a blue moose in the backwoods is hired as a waiter, becomes a best-selling author and a celebrity, then looks for a 50-foot moose monster with fangs.