Now That's What I Call Polka!

“Now That's What I Call Polka!” by “Weird Al” Yankovic is a delightful and humorous medley that combines some of the biggest pop hits of the early 2010s into a single, high-energy polka track. Known for his parodic style, Weird Al takes songs that were originally serious or dance-oriented and transforms them into a playful, accordion-driven romp. The medley includes snippets from songs like Miley Cyrus's “Wrecking Ball,” Foster the People's “Pumped Up Kicks,” and Psy's “Gangnam Style,” among others.

Weird Al's genius lies in his ability to juxtapose the original emotional weight or cultural significance of these songs with the light-hearted, bouncy nature of polka music. For instance, “Wrecking Ball” is a song about intense emotional turmoil and heartbreak, but when rendered in polka style, it becomes almost comically upbeat. Similarly, “Pumped Up Kicks,” a song with dark undertones about a troubled youth, is given a whimsical twist that contrasts sharply with its original message.

The medley also serves as a time capsule, capturing the essence of a specific era in pop music. Songs like “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen and “Get Lucky” by Daft Punk were ubiquitous during this period, and Weird Al's medley brings them together in a way that is both nostalgic and fresh. His ability to seamlessly blend these diverse tracks into a cohesive polka arrangement showcases his musical talent and deep understanding of pop culture. The result is a fun, engaging piece that invites listeners to both laugh and reminisce.