Weird Al” Yankovic's “Weird Al” Yankovic in 3-D (33 1/3)

Novelty records have topped charts for as long as charts have existed, but novelty artists rarely stay in the public memory. “Weird Al” Yankovic is the exception, building a showbiz career that’s lasted more than forty years.

Released in 1984, his second album “Weird Al” Yankovic In 3-D put a food-fixated parody of Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” front and centre. At the time, it looked like he might be remembered simply as the “Eat It” guy.

What makes this record endure is the craft. The wordplay lands, but the real hook is the sonic precision: parody cuts and comic originals alike are as enjoyable to hear again as any sharp pop album. MTV helped too, with the “Eat It” video brilliantly mirroring the original while twisting the details. In 3-D became the blueprint for Yankovic’s future and helped open the door for acts like The Lonely Island and Flight of the Conchords.