“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
I remember the first time I heard “Not That Funny” by Fleetwood Mac. It was during a road trip with friends, and we were swapping our favorite tracks from the legendary band. As soon as the quirky, almost offbeat rhythm started, we all looked at each other and laughed, realizing the irony of the song’s title. It wasn’t just the humor in the lyrics that struck us but the unique composition that made this track stand out in the band’s extensive repertoire.
About The Composition
- Title: Not That Funny
- Composer: Lindsey Buckingham
- Premiere Date: September 19, 1979
- Album: Tusk
- Genre: Rock
Background
“Not That Funny” was composed by Lindsey Buckingham and is part of Fleetwood Mac’s 1979 album, Tusk. This album marked a significant departure from their previous work, Rumours, with Buckingham pushing for a more experimental and less commercial sound. The inception of “Not That Funny” is rooted in Buckingham’s desire to break away from the band’s successful formula and explore more avant-garde musical territories. The song was initially met with mixed reviews but has since gained recognition for its innovative approach and distinct style within the album.
Musical Style
The musical elements of “Not That Funny” are characterized by its unusual structure and instrumentation. The song features a jarring, almost disjointed rhythm that creates a sense of unpredictability. Buckingham’s vocals are delivered with an exaggerated, almost comedic tone, which aligns with the song’s title and lyrics. The use of unconventional percussion and the playful, repetitive guitar riff further add to the song’s quirky and distinctive sound. This approach was a deliberate attempt by Buckingham to challenge the norms of rock music and introduce a fresh, experimental edge to Fleetwood Mac’s sound.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of “Not That Funny” are a playful critique of various aspects of life and human behavior. Buckingham employs a sarcastic tone, delivering lines that mock the trivialities people often find amusing. The recurring theme in the lyrics is the disconnect between what is considered funny and the actual impact of humor on reality. This thematic exploration is cleverly intertwined with the music, creating a cohesive piece that resonates on multiple levels.
Performance History
“Not That Funny” has been performed live by Fleetwood Mac on various occasions, most notably during their Tusk tour. The live performances often emphasize the song’s playful and experimental nature, with Buckingham bringing an added layer of theatricality to his delivery. Over time, the song has been appreciated for its bold departure from the mainstream sound and is considered a testament to Fleetwood Mac’s versatility and willingness to innovate.
Cultural Impact
While “Not That Funny” may not have achieved the commercial success of other Fleetwood Mac hits, its influence is notable in the way it challenged conventional rock music structures. The song’s experimental nature paved the way for other artists to explore unconventional sounds and themes. Additionally, its use in various media, including live performances and cover versions by other artists, highlights its enduring appeal and impact.
Legacy
“Not That Funny” remains a significant piece in Fleetwood Mac’s catalog, reflecting the band’s creative evolution and willingness to take risks. Its relevance today lies in its unique sound and the way it continues to challenge listeners’ expectations. The song serves as a reminder of the importance of artistic experimentation and the value of stepping outside of established norms to create something truly original.
Conclusion
Personally, “Not That Funny” stands out to me as a bold and innovative track that showcases Lindsey Buckingham’s creative genius. It’s a song that grows on you with each listen, revealing new layers of complexity and wit. I highly recommend diving into Fleetwood Mac’s Tusk album to fully appreciate this track, and for an exceptional experience, check out their live performances where the song truly comes alive.
Video
Lyrics
It’s not that funny, is it?
You don’t know what it is
But you can’t get enough of it
It’s not that funny, is it?
Don’t blame me
Please, please, please
I didn’t wanna bleed so
I didn’t wanna be this late
So don’t make me wait
No, that’s not that funny, is it?
No one to turn you on
All your hope is gone
‘Cause it’s not that funny, is it?
Yeah
So don’t blame me
Please, please, please
You’re here ’cause I say so
Didn’t wanna be this late
So don’t make me, don’t make me wait
Oh, goodbye
Goodbye
It’s not that funny, is it?
But you can’t get enough of it
It’s not that funny, is it?
Not that funny
Not funny
You can’t get enough of it
It’s not that funny, is it?
Not that funny, is it?
It’s not too funny, look
It’s not that funny, it’s not
Yeah
I said, yeah
Yeah, yeah
Yeah
Yeah