The Banana Splits We Re The Banana Splits
Introduction
The Banana Splits was a popular children's television show that aired from 1968 to 1970. It featured four costumed animal characters - Fleegle the beagle, Bingo the gorilla, Drooper the lion, and Snorky the elephant - who played rock music and participated in various skits and games. The show was a hit with kids and adults alike and remains a beloved pop culture icon to this day. In this article, we'll take a closer look at The Banana Splits and why it's still worth watching today.
The Origins of The Banana Splits
The Banana Splits was created by Hanna-Barbera Productions, a famous animation studio known for producing hit shows like The Flintstones, Yogi Bear, and Scooby-Doo. The show was originally conceived as a way to compete with The Monkees, a popular rock band that starred in their own TV series. Hanna-Barbera wanted to create a similar show that would appeal to kids and showcase their own musical talents.
The show's format was inspired by The Beatles' film A Hard Day's Night, which featured the band in a series of comedic and musical skits. The Banana Splits would feature a similar mix of music, comedy, and adventure, with the titular characters serving as the band and the stars of the show.
The Format of The Banana Splits
The Banana Splits was a half-hour show that aired on Saturday mornings. Each episode featured a mix of live-action and animated segments, with the Banana Splits performing a variety of musical styles including rock, pop, and country. The show also featured comedy sketches, game shows, and animated shorts.
One of the show's most memorable segments was the "Tra La La" song, which became the show's signature tune. The catchy tune was composed by musician Ritchie Adams and originally released as a single in 1968. It went on to become a hit, reaching No. 96 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The Legacy of The Banana Splits
Although The Banana Splits only aired for two seasons, it remains a beloved part of pop culture history. The show has been referenced and parodied in countless TV shows, movies, and music videos. The Banana Splits have even made a comeback in recent years, with a new horror movie featuring the characters released in 2019.
Part of the reason for The Banana Splits' enduring popularity is its unique blend of music and comedy. The show's catchy tunes and colorful characters made it a hit with kids, while its clever humor and pop culture references appealed to older viewers. The show also paved the way for other children's shows that incorporated music, such as The Wiggles and Yo Gabba Gabba!
Why The Banana Splits is Still Worth Watching Today
So why should you watch The Banana Splits today, over 50 years after its original airing? For one, the show is a fun and nostalgic trip back to the 1960s. It's a great way to introduce kids to classic TV shows and music, and to share a bit of your childhood with them.
But The Banana Splits is also worth watching for its enduring charm and wit. The show's musical performances are still catchy and entertaining, while its comedy sketches are clever and often hilarious. And even though the show was created for a young audience, it's full of enough references and nods to pop culture to keep older viewers engaged as well.
Conclusion
The Banana Splits was a unique and beloved children's show that remains a cultural touchstone to this day. Its blend of music, comedy, and adventure made it a hit with kids and adults alike, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of fans. If you haven't seen The Banana Splits before, give it a watch - you might just find yourself singing "Tra La La" by the end.