Boots Randolph (1927-2007)

Boots Randolph, the man responsible for "Yakety Sax" (aka the "Benny Hill" song, aka "that song that makes anything funny") passed away Tuesday at the age of 80.

With a career spanning over 50 years, Randolph was featured in numerous big-name hits, including Roy Orbison's "Oh, Pretty Woman." "Little Queenie" by REO Speedwagon, and "Rockin' 'Round The Christmas Tree." He was also featured in "Elvis is Back!", Elvis Presley's first album after his time in the Army. He would also perform on the soundtracks for several of Presley's movies.

Despite a pedigree like that, Randolph will always be remembered most for his 1963 hit that has become synonymous with Benny Hill. Randolph was content with that.

RIP, Boots.



(And I wasn't kidding when I said "Yakety Sax" makes anything funny.)



-TM

i just read this....i have a few of his albums kickin' around, i'll have to throw one on...

I heard this yesterday. I've always known of him, but never realized the extent of his output. Very sad.

Sad news.

But that 2nd video is just awesome

Wow. I love Boots. I used to do a guitar arrangement for Yakety Sax (Yakety Axe) I stole from Chet Atkins, who stole it (along with lyrics) from Merle Travis.

I'll have to play it next show.

I recommend this album for anyone interested in checking him out.

Cacklin' Sax is (at the moment, at least) my favourite.

Much as I love guitarists "Chicken Pickin'," I Love equally a sax player imitating chickens & roosters, sounding like he's . . . well . . . choking a chicken.

He was so well-versed in music from so many genres (I Love his takes on Hank Williams Sr. tunes).

I am sad to learn of his passing.

yakketty sax

Man oh man, I loves that "Yakety Sax".

OK. that second vid is the funniest shit I've seen all week.