South Park's theme song recording process by the band Primus unveiled in a surprising revelation
The South Park theme song, with its distinctive driving twang, has become a fan favourite among Primus fans and an iconic part of the show's subversive comedy. But did you know that the slower, original version of the theme song was the first and only one recorded by Primus?
According to an interview with Les Claypool, Primus' fearless leader, the slower version was the original and only recording, specifically by Les himself. Trey Parker and Matt Stone had approached Les during a Primus show to record the vocals for the theme song, and that slower, more plodding version was actually intended to be the opening theme [1]. However, Comedy Central felt the theme was too slow for an opening.
In a practical solution to the timing and scheduling constraints, Claypool suggested they speed up the tape of the original recording to create the familiar faster opening theme version used in the show [1]. This process resulted in the South Park theme known today, a testament to the unique collaboration between the show and the band.
The theme song for South Park Season 27 features Claypool's vocals once again, a nod to the symbiotic relationship between the show and the band. The interview with Claypool about the recording of the South Park theme song was conducted by YouTuber Rick Beato, and a part of the interview has been released as a YouTube short [2].
Primus was chosen to do the South Park theme song because Parker and Stone were both fans of the band. The unique sound of Primus fits the vibe of South Park and its outrageous episodes. Interestingly, the version of the theme song that plays at the beginning of each episode is a sped-up version of the original recording.
As for the slower version of the theme song, it can still be heard as the end credits. This slower version, with its original plodding rhythm, adds a different dimension to the theme and showcases the raw talent of Primus.
After a short break, South Park is back with more from its latest season. The South Park theme song, with its quirky and off-kilter vibe, continues to be a perfect fit for the show. It's a testament to the creative collaboration between the show and Primus, and a reminder that sometimes, the most iconic creations come from practical solutions and unique partnerships.
[1] Beato, R. (n.d.). Les Claypool Interview: Primus, South Park, and the Story Behind the Theme Song. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wMJNXHn_t8
[2] Beato, R. (2021, September 2). Les Claypool Interview: Primus, South Park, and the Story Behind the Theme Song (Part 2). [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u86tEUJC84Q
The interview with Les Claypool reveals that the original, slower version of the South Park theme song was the first and only recording by Primus, contrary to the faster version used in the show. This slower version can still be heard as the end credits of each episode, showcasing the raw talent of Primus and adding a different dimension to the theme.
