Bo Burnham's What? Comedy Special: A Deep Dive

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into Bo Burnham's hilarious and thought-provoking comedy special, "What." Released in 2013, this performance showcases Burnham's unique blend of musical comedy, satire, and social commentary. If you're new to Bo Burnham, prepare to be amazed by his lyrical genius, sharp wit, and incredible stage presence. If you're already a fan, get ready for a nostalgic trip down memory lane as we dissect some of the standout tracks from this iconic show.

What Makes "What." So Special?

"What." isn't just a comedy special; it's a meticulously crafted piece of art. Bo Burnham takes on a variety of topics, from the mundane to the existential, all while maintaining a frenetic energy and a self-aware comedic persona. What sets him apart is his ability to deconstruct the very act of performing, often breaking the fourth wall to comment on his own jokes and the audience's reactions. This meta-commentary adds layers of complexity to his work, making it both hilarious and intellectually stimulating.

One of the key elements of "What." is its exploration of performance and authenticity. Burnham constantly questions the role of the entertainer and the expectations placed upon them. He challenges the audience to consider what is real and what is staged, blurring the lines between his on-stage persona and his true self. This theme resonates throughout the special, prompting viewers to reflect on their own identities and the masks they wear in everyday life. He even satirizes his own performances, preemptively addressing the criticisms he anticipates receiving, showcasing his self-awareness and control over his artistic narrative.

Musically, "What." is a tour de force. Burnham seamlessly blends various genres, from pop and hip-hop to country and musical theater, creating a diverse and dynamic soundscape. His lyrics are clever, often subversive, and always memorable. He uses music to amplify his comedic points, creating moments that are both laugh-out-loud funny and surprisingly insightful. For instance, he might use a catchy pop melody to deliver a biting critique of societal norms, or employ a dramatic ballad to explore the anxieties of modern life. This masterful combination of music and comedy is what makes Bo Burnham a true original in the world of entertainment.

Furthermore, Burnham's use of visual elements enhances the overall experience of "What." The staging is simple yet effective, with dynamic lighting and projections that complement his performance. He uses these elements to create a sense of intimacy and connection with the audience, even as he's delivering his most outlandish jokes. The visual gags and physical comedy add another layer of humor, making the special a multi-sensory experience that engages viewers on multiple levels. Burnham's attention to detail in every aspect of the production demonstrates his commitment to creating a truly exceptional piece of art.

Standout Songs from "What."

Let's break down some of the most memorable songs from "What.", shall we? Each track is a mini-masterpiece in its own right, showcasing Burnham's versatility and comedic brilliance.

1. "Words, Words, Words"

"Words, Words, Words" is a rapid-fire explosion of linguistic humor. In this song, Bo Burnham dissects the nature of language itself, playing with puns, rhymes, and absurd definitions. The sheer speed and complexity of the lyrics are impressive, demonstrating Burnham's incredible command of language. He satirizes academic jargon and philosophical debates, highlighting the often-meaningless nature of words. The song is a whirlwind of wit and wordplay, leaving the audience breathless with laughter.

The structure of "Words, Words, Words" is carefully crafted to build momentum and maintain comedic tension. Burnham starts with simple observations about language, gradually escalating into more complex and absurd scenarios. He uses repetition and rhythm to create a hypnotic effect, drawing the audience into his linguistic labyrinth. The song is a testament to Burnham's ability to find humor in the most unexpected places, transforming the mundane into the extraordinary. He attacks the notion of over-intellectualizing simple subjects, and the performance highlights the silliness of academic grandstanding with hilarious results.

The physical comedy in "Words, Words, Words" is also noteworthy. Burnham uses exaggerated gestures and facial expressions to emphasize his points, adding another layer of humor to the performance. He interacts with the microphone and keyboard in a playful way, creating a dynamic and engaging stage presence. The song is a complete sensory experience, combining linguistic humor with visual gags and physical comedy to create a truly unforgettable performance. It's a fan favorite because it perfectly encapsulates Burnham's unique brand of intellectual silliness, challenging audiences to think critically while simultaneously making them laugh uncontrollably.

2. "Left Brain, Right Brain"

"Left Brain, Right Brain" is a hilarious and insightful exploration of the two hemispheres of the brain. Burnham embodies both the logical, analytical left brain and the creative, emotional right brain, engaging in a comedic dialogue that highlights their contrasting perspectives. The song is a brilliant metaphor for the internal conflicts we all experience, as we try to balance reason and emotion in our lives. The catchy melody and clever lyrics make it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

In this song, Burnham uses distinct vocal styles and physical mannerisms to differentiate between the left and right brain. The left brain is portrayed as a fast-talking, hyper-rational character, while the right brain is more expressive and intuitive. The contrast between these two personalities creates a dynamic and engaging performance. Burnham explores the strengths and weaknesses of each hemisphere, highlighting the importance of both logic and creativity in human thought. The humor in the song comes from the absurd situations that arise as the two brains try to reconcile their differences.

The underlying message of "Left Brain, Right Brain" is that we need both logic and creativity to lead fulfilling lives. Burnham suggests that society often undervalues the right brain, prioritizing rationality and efficiency over emotion and imagination. He encourages the audience to embrace their inner artist and to find a balance between the two hemispheres. The song is a powerful reminder that we are all complex beings with a wide range of emotions and capabilities. This song not only entertains but also inspires self-reflection, prompting viewers to consider how they can better integrate their own left and right brain functions. It's a clever, relatable, and ultimately uplifting piece of comedic art.

3. "Repeat Stuff"

"Repeat Stuff" is a satirical commentary on the formulaic nature of pop music. Bo Burnham takes aim at the predictable lyrics, overused tropes, and manufactured images that dominate the music industry. The song is a scathing critique of commercialism and the pressure to conform to popular trends. With its catchy beat and deliberately cliché lyrics, "Repeat Stuff" is both hilarious and unsettling, exposing the emptiness behind much of what we consume in popular culture.

Burham sings about the ease of creating a commercially successful song by simply repeating popular themes and phrases. The lyrics highlight the shallowness of modern pop music, where substance is often sacrificed for catchy hooks and mass appeal. The song mocks the obsession with fame and fortune, suggesting that artists are often willing to compromise their integrity in order to achieve success. Burnham also parodies the stereotypical imagery and marketing tactics used to promote pop stars, exposing the artificiality of the entertainment industry.

Though hilarious, "Repeat Stuff" encourages listeners to be more critical of the media they consume and to seek out authentic and original voices in music. Burnham challenges the audience to question the values promoted by the entertainment industry and to resist the pressure to conform. The song is a call for greater artistic integrity and a more discerning approach to popular culture. By lampooning the repetitive nature of mainstream hits, Burham prompts listeners to appreciate genuine creativity and originality in music. It serves as a reminder to think critically about the messages being broadcast and to support artists who dare to break the mold.

The Enduring Legacy of "What."

"What." remains a relevant and influential comedy special, even years after its release. Bo Burnham's unique blend of humor, music, and social commentary continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. His willingness to challenge conventions and push boundaries has inspired a new generation of comedians and performers. "What." is a testament to the power of comedy to provoke thought, spark conversation, and ultimately, make the world a little bit brighter.

So, there you have it – a deep dive into the wonderful world of Bo Burnham's "What."! Hopefully, this has given you a new appreciation for this comedic masterpiece. Keep laughing, keep thinking, and never stop questioning the world around you!