Is the world a little less funny today? Has the master of parody, the sultan of satire, the accordion-wielding wonder finally taken his last bow? Absolutely not! Weird Al Yankovic is alive, kicking, and ready to polka his way through more musical mayhem.
Alfred Matthew "Weird Al" Yankovic, a name synonymous with musical comedy and clever lyrical twists, remains a vibrant force in American entertainment. For over four decades, he has delighted audiences with his uncanny ability to transform popular songs into hilarious, often insightful, parodies. His discography is a testament to his enduring appeal, boasting over 12 million albums sold in the United States alone, alongside a collection of five prestigious Grammy Awards that solidify his place as a comedic icon.
Weird Al Yankovic: Bio & Career Highlights | |
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Real Name | Alfred Matthew Yankovic |
Stage Name | "Weird Al" Yankovic |
Born | October 23, 1959 (age 64 years) |
Birth Place | Downey, California, U.S. |
Citizenship | United States |
Education | Lynwood High School, California Polytechnic State University (Bachelor of Architecture) |
Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Satirist, Musician, Actor, Director, Producer, Author |
Years Active | 1976present |
Genres | Comedy rock, novelty, polka, parody |
Instruments | Vocals, Accordion, Keyboards |
Labels | Scotti Bros., Volcano, RCA, Way Moby/self |
Associated Acts | Various (as a parodist) |
Spouse | Suzanne Yankovic (m. 2001) |
Children | One daughter, Nina Yankovic |
Net Worth (Estimate) | Approximately $20 million |
Awards | 5 Grammy Awards, 6 MTV Video Music Awards, numerous other accolades |
Key Career Milestones | |
Early Career | Began recording parodies on a cassette recorder as a teenager. Appeared on "The Dr. Demento Show." |
Breakthrough | "Another One Rides the Bus" (1981), a parody of Queen's "Another One Bites the Dust." |
First Album | "Weird Al Yankovic" (1983) |
Major Hits | "Eat It" (parody of Michael Jackson's "Beat It"), "Like a Surgeon" (parody of Madonna's "Like a Virgin"), "Amish Paradise" (parody of Coolio's "Gangsta's Paradise"), "White & Nerdy" (parody of Chamillionaire's "Ridin'"). |
Film & Television | Starred in "UHF" (1989), numerous television appearances, including his own "The Weird Al Show." Voice acting roles in animated series. |
Most Recent Album | "Mandatory Fun" (2014) - His first Billboard #1 album. |
Official Website | |
Weird Al Yankovic Official Website |