The Banana Splits Theme Song – CliqueClack Flashback

Fruit Loops at the ready, still in pajamas, bedhead hair in evidence, it was time for one of my favorite innocuous programs of Saturday mornings, The Banana Splits Adventure Hour. We all know weekends are for kids — no school … the day ahead of you … monkey business beckons. But first, a little bit of Fleegle, Bingo, Drooper and Snorky.

In all honesty, I don’t remember much of the show itself, but I hold dear the infectious theme, “The Tra La La Song.” Besides the tune, I do remember the voice of Fleegle (head Banana Split) being prevalent in tons of things over the airwaves and on the screen. And, in fact, it was. Paul Winchell was the voice of tons of characters. (Most famously, he’s known for Tigger of Winnie The Pooh.)

But the music … ah, the music in that Saturday morning show. A bevy of notable notables were on board for the live action segments. Most were studio professionals: Joey Levine, Barry White, Gene Pitney and Jimmy Radcliffe, not to mention the great Al Kooper (who, among other things, was responsible for putting together Blood, Sweat and Tears).

But it’s the Banana Splits’ iconic intro that’s best remembered, “The Tra La La Song (One Banana Two Banana).” Released in 1968, was so popular it even reached The Billboard Top 100 at the start of the following year. Imagine that: a kid’s cartoon song placing on such a lofty publication. The tune was purportedly written by Nelson Brock Winkless, Jr., but there is some confusion surrounding this claim. Contractual agreements pointed to credit being given to one Ritchie Adams and Steve Kincannon (of the rock groups Cream and the Allman Brothers). Writer Winkless was credited as co-author along with Hoyt Curtin who was the primary musical director for the Hanna-Barbera animation studio at the time.

Today, “The Tra La La Song” is still a toe-tapping favorite. It’s even been covered by the likes of Liz Phair and Material Issue (video below) and is a fan favorite of audiences attending shows by The Dickies, who had a Top Ten single with it in the U.K. Flip it on (if you can find it) and you’ll be caught up doing butt wiggles right there in your seat. Happen upon it while toodling down the highway driving in your car and it’s practically a given you’ll be subject to singing at least some of the words merrily.

This is the stuff that is in our Saturday morning genes … in that cavity-causing cereal … in the hazy, lazy, crazy daze of a weekend morning.

Go ahead: Try and sit still while you listen to the original restored and grainy (but complete!) offering below. I double dog dare you.

Clacked by Michael Noble
on May 12, 2010 @ 14:00 EST5EDT