When this editor was a kid, he was quite fond of "novelty records," including works by Homer and Jethro, Tom Lehrer, Stan Freberg and Spike Jones. And it turns out that he was born at just about the right time: Writer Steven Otfinoski, the author of The Golden Age of Novelty Songs dates the golden age of that genre from the mid 50s through the 60s.
Beginning in 1970, Barret Hansen took on the nom de ether of "Dr. Demento" and began practicing the craft of a radio DeeJay who specialized in novelty records. Between his long running radio program and his recorded collections, he help keep the music in the spotlight and helped some musicians in their careers, notably Weird Al Yankovick.
Sadly, this weekend marks the end of an era, the good Doctor drops his last needle and shelves his last single in the library.
There's much more to the story, including a very good image and video album in the Salon
