King Tut Steve Martin Song: A Hilarious Journey Back in Time

31 Mar 2024

kenneth in the (212): Song of the Day: 'King Tut' by Steve Martin

Remember the time when a banjo-playing comedian brought ancient Egypt to life on Saturday Night Live? No, we're not talking about a time-travel episode. We're talking about the one and only Steve Martin and his smash-hit novelty song "King Tut."

Released in 1978, "King Tut" wasn't just a song; it was a pop culture phenomenon. It catapulted Steve Martin to superstardom and became a hilarious yet strangely catchy exploration of Egyptomania, the West's fascination with all things ancient Egypt.

But "King Tut" was more than just a goofy song about an Egyptian pharaoh. It was a brilliant satire of consumerism, museum culture, and even rock star worship, cleverly disguised as a catchy tune. With lines like "Born in Arizona, moved to Babylonia," Martin poked fun at historical inaccuracies and the public's often-superficial understanding of the past.

The song's success can be attributed to its perfect comedic timing, Martin's undeniable stage presence (who could forget the "King Tut" dance moves?), and its ability to tap into a cultural moment. The late 1970s saw a renewed interest in ancient Egypt, fueled by the blockbuster exhibition of Tutankhamun's treasures that toured the world.

More than four decades later, "King Tut" remains a beloved comedy classic. It's a reminder of Steve Martin's comedic genius and the power of humor to make us think, even as we're laughing along to a song about a 3,000-year-old dead pharaoh.

While "King Tut" doesn't lend itself to a traditional step-by-step guide or checklist, its impact on comedy and popular culture is undeniable. Let's explore some of the key takeaways and lasting influences of this iconic song.

The Enduring Appeal of "King Tut": Advantages and Disadvantages

Like any cultural artifact, "King Tut" has its share of admirers and critics. Here's a look at some of the song's perceived advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages	Disadvantages
Introduced a generation to ancient Egypt (even if through a comedic lens)	Some argue its portrayal of Egyptian culture is stereotypical and insensitive.
Showcased Steve Martin's comedic brilliance and innovative approach to musical comedy.	Its popularity overshadowed some of Martin's other comedic work.
Remains a hilarious and memorable piece of pop culture history.	Its humor, rooted in the cultural context of the 1970s, might not resonate as strongly with contemporary audiences.

Despite some criticisms, "King Tut" remains a fascinating example of how comedy can intersect with history, culture, and social commentary. It's a song that sparked conversations, challenged perceptions, and, most importantly, made us laugh.

Exploring the Legacy of "King Tut": Common Questions

The enduring popularity of "King Tut" continues to generate questions and discussions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the song:

1. What inspired Steve Martin to write "King Tut"?

The song was inspired by the Tutankhamun exhibit that was touring the United States in the late 1970s. Martin saw an opportunity to satirize the hype surrounding the exhibit and the public's fascination with ancient Egypt.

2. Did "King Tut" reach number one on the charts?

While incredibly popular, the song peaked at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1978. However, its cultural impact far exceeded its chart performance.

3. Was Steve Martin concerned about cultural appropriation?

Cultural sensitivity wasn't as widely discussed in the 1970s as it is today. While some found the song's portrayal of Egyptian culture to be in good fun, others argued it relied on stereotypes.

4. Did Steve Martin write any other novelty songs?

"King Tut" wasn't a one-hit wonder. Martin released other comedic songs like "Grandmother's Song" and "Ramblin' Guy," often incorporating his signature banjo playing.

5. Is "King Tut" available to stream online?

Absolutely! The song is widely available on music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

6. Did Steve Martin perform "King Tut" live?

Yes, the song was a staple of Martin's stand-up comedy act in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He often performed it with elaborate costumes and backup dancers.

7. What is the legacy of "King Tut"?

The song is remembered as a classic example of musical comedy and a testament to Steve Martin's comedic genius. It also serves as a cultural time capsule, reflecting the trends and sensibilities of the 1970s.

8. Did "King Tut" influence other comedians?

Many comedians, especially those who blend music and comedy, cite "King Tut" as an influence. The song's success demonstrated that comedy could be both silly and thought-provoking.

"King Tut" might be over four decades old, but its impact on comedy and popular culture is undeniable. It reminds us that sometimes the best way to tackle complex or sensitive topics is through humor, even if it means taking a lighthearted jab at a 3,000-year-old pharaoh.

So, the next time you find yourself humming along to "King Tut," remember that you're not just enjoying a catchy tune. You're experiencing a piece of comedy history—a song that dared to be silly, satirical, and surprisingly insightful all at once.