This tune is as sweet and light as they come. Show your audiences you are a clever speller, as well as being wise in the ways of love.
Contest Uptunes
Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive
Brothers and sisters, are you ready to eliminate the negative? Then just latch on to this lively tune and help spread the word!
Across the Alley from the Alamo
This song is so much fun that it almost even makes sense. Think fondly of the Mills Brothers when you sing this tune.
After Dark
Power Play sang this lively update of the classic barbershop favorite. Have fun with the patter and the reverse patter.
Aging Superheroes Medley
Did you ever wish your quartet consisted of Superman, Batman, Spider-Man and, well… Mighty Mouse? Your wish can be granted with this clever batch of parodies. This piece goes very well in a set with the parody version of When I Lost You. Continue reading Aging Superheroes Medley
Alabama Jubilee
This lively uptune has a strong Dixie feel to it. Time to get happy in a Southern sort of way.
Alabama Medley
This collaboration with Ed Waesche pairs “Open Your Arms, My Alabamy” and “Alabama Jubilee.” The medley happily gathers energy as it goes along. Great for groups who naturally sing downbeat songs better than swing tunes.
Alarm Clock Blues
Do you hate to get up in the morning? Are you sometimes tempted to smash your alarm clock into a thousand tiny little bits? If so, this is the song for you—even in contest.
All Alone! (Von Tilzer)
This cute come-hither uptune is fine for both women and men. Hey, it is time for some billing and cooing in the parlor.
Animal Crackers
Do you share this secret vice? Are you just wild about this classic treat? Surely many of your audience members will be able to relate. Continue reading Animal Crackers
Anti-Marriage Medley
This medley has a, shall we say, certain point of view. A combination of 1912 songs “I Was Married Up in the Air” and “When You’re Married,” this piece takes a dim view of the institution of marriage and could serve as a light-hearted warning for men who are considering taking the plunge.
Anything Goes
No one else ever wrote lyrics quite like the great Cole Porter. In-rhymes, regular rhymes, irregular rhymes—Porter used the English language to enable performers to take their audiences on a delightful roller coaster ride. So hop on into the first car. . . .
Are You Havin’ Any Fun
Well, are you? This lively, cheery song is a reminder to us all to enjoy life. After all: “You ain’t gonna live forever. Before you’re old and gray, still O.K., have a little fun!”
Aussie Road Medley
Hit the road down under with three songs from the real land of Oz: “Waltzing Matilda” and “Along the Road to Gundagai,” along with the hauntingly beautiful “Never Never.”
Baby Song Medley
Here is a sweet, light combination of “Sing Me a Baby Song” and “Baby.” Have fun crooning to your sweetheart with this lovely medley. Continue reading Baby Song Medley
Banjo Medley
Lots of lively fun, this medley was sung by BHS medalist SRO. Time to plink and plunk your way to happiness. Continue reading Banjo Medley
Bare Necessities
From the animated musical “The Jungle Book,” this delightful tune will charm audiences and judges alike. Storm Front sang it until they decided to be unremittingly hilarious. Continue reading Bare Necessities
Beer Medley
There is lots of fun to be had with this foamy piece. The tunes included are, in order: “Fritz (Fritz, Bring Us Some Schlitz),” “Beer Barrel Polka,” “In Heaven There Is No Beer,” “Under the Anheuser Bush” and “The Night That She Cried in My Beer.” Wet enough for you?
Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing, The
What are these wonderful things that happen on the dance floor? Your can probably guess, and your audiences will love hearing about them.
Blackbird Parody
There are all sorts of goofy key changes and lyrics in this light-hearted spoof. Can be sung in contest. Hi-Fidelity was runner-up for the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America’s novelty song of the year award with this delightful number. Continue reading Blackbird Parody
Blue Skies
Written by Irving Berlin, this cheery tune was a last-minute addition to the Rodgers and Hart musical Betsy. The song was an immediate hit, with the audience on opening night demanding an astounding 24 encores from star Belle Baker! Would you settle for just one encore from your listeners?
Bourke Street on Saturday Night
Bourke Street is one of the main thoroughfares in Melbourne, Australia. It has traditionally been a downtown entertainment hub and is now also a popular tourist destination. Go out on the town with this contestable Aussie song.
Bring Back Those Wonderful Days
This is an old song about even older days. As such, it is really unique, not to mention fun.
Broadway on Opening Night
This uptune moves right along and is great for a Broadway show theme. Come to think of it, you could open any of your performancew with this lively number.
Bubble Wrap Medley
HotShots sang this unique conglomeration on the International stage, to the delight and disbelief of all. What could be more fun than popping bubble wrap? Well, popping bubble wrap to music!
Button Up Your Overcoat
As cute as they come, this tune is available in regular and senior-citizens’ versions. Chris Arnold has recorded learning tracks for both versions. Do give this happy tune a try.
Calendar Girl
Neil Sedaka wrote and sang this most fun tune. Now it is available for your group to sing in contest, even!
Can You Tame Wild Wimmen?
This version uses the composer’s original melody, so it is not as sung by the 139th St. Quartet. The punch line, especially, makes this piece big fun.
Can’t Buy Me Love
This classic from the Fab Four is not only lively and wise, it is contestable too (though perhaps not for SAI). But whether for contest or show, this song is a sure winner. “Everybody tells me so!” Tim Waurick’s tracks for women are purely great, and he now has them for men too. Continue reading Can’t Buy Me Love
Champion’s Knack
Written to the tune of “Ballin’ the Jack,” this parody pokes fun at the cliched stage-presence moves we barbershoppers are wont to make. Your audiences, especially barbershop ones, will love it.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang/In My Brand New Automobile
A tongue-twister that really rips along, this medley is great fun to sing. By the way, the second song was written and arranged by Al Rehkop, who won gold at tenor with both the Auto Towners and the Gentlemen’s Agreement.
Civil War Medley
This energetic collection of vintage songs captures the spirit of the early days of the war, when both sides figured they would be able to end matters in a few weeks and be home in time for plowing. Goes well in a contest package with Tell My Father or The Vacant Chair.
Clown Medley
There are more fun songs in this medley than you can shake a squirting flower at: “Make ‘Em Laugh,” “Be a Clown,” “That’s Entertainment” and “Send in the Clowns.” This barrel (or clown car?) of laughs is no longer exclusive to the MegaCity Chorus.
Consider Yourself
From the musical “Oliver,” this happy, lively tune can be sung in contest. International champ Power Play welcomed you to their family with this one.
Cotton Club Medley
Picture yourself at THE night club in 1930s Harlem. What might you hear? What would you see? They would be marvelous and exciting things, that is for sure. This medley is no longer exclusive to the Big Apple Chorus.
Crinoline Days
A good, old-fashioned song about good, old-fashioned times, this tune provides you and your audiences with some light fun. The incomparable Irving Berlin penned this song back in 1922.
Dancing Frankie Medley
The Frankenstein monster can surely raise cane—well, when he is Able—but you should see him dance. If you have seen the film “Young Frankenstein,” you will be able to figure out what the main song in this monster medley is. This piece of lunacy goes well with the “Fabricating Frankie Medley.” No longer exclusive to the Big Apple Chorus.
Dapper Dan/Two-Time Dan
A delightful scoundrel-type uptune medley, this song tell of a shady southern character.
Dentist Medley
How do sadists earn a living? Easy: They go into a certain field where causing pain is part of the game.
Dixie Kids Parade, The
As sung by the Scarborough Dukes, this is a happy, rollicking number. In its other incarnation, this song is available as “The Santa Claus Parade.”
Do You Hear the People Sing?
This rousing song is from the musical “Les Miserables.” Your audiences’ hearts and guts will be moved, and the song itself would even fly in contest, though this arrangement is better off used for shows.
Don’t Put a Tax on the Beautiful Girls
“Have a little pity, leave my pleasure alone!” So sings the put-upon taxpayer. By the way, this is not the version sung by the 139th St. Quartet.
Doo Wacka Doo
Ah, how much fun is it to sing a recently written tune about the songs and excitement of the Roaring ’20s? Big fun, that’s how much! This song will be exclusive to The Velvet Frogs until the fall of 2017, but you can start thinking right now about singing this delightful number.
Down By the O-Hi-O
A regional uptune about a girlfriend back home, this song is lots of innocent, old-fashioned fun.
Elvis Medley
Would you believe a contestable medley could be made of “Hound Dog,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Burning Love” and “Viva Las Vegas”? You will have a blast singing this piece, one that is fit for a—well, the one and only—King.
Enter Sandman
A tough one to explain, this Metallica hit was goofed on by a lounge-lizardy singer who calls himself Richard Cheese. The arranger further degraded the piece, resulting in a delightful, even marginally contestable, abomination.
Fabricating Frankie Medley
No, we are not talking about Mr. Sinatra here. Rather, this is about a certain monster that was created by a mad scientist with a German-sounding name. Pair it with the “Dancing Frankie Medley.” No longer exclusive to the Big Apple Chorus.
Fishy Medley
Midwest Vocal Express earned an International medley with this crazy concoction. Ask anyone who was there: Their performance was all-time funny, delightful, memorable and totally marvellous.
Five Minutes More
Love needs just a little more sometimes. You are sure to enjoy this gentle tune. It is no longer exclusive to Fermata Nowhere, so get it while it’s warm and sweet! Continue reading Five Minutes More
Floatin’ Down to Cotton Town
A lively upper with a Southern theme, this song takes you back to a slower, mellower time.
Football Medley
“Mr. Touchdown USA” and “Football Hero” comprise this All-American medley. Show your spirit by adding this high-energy piece to your repertoire. Continue reading Football Medley
For Once in My Life
Stevie Wonder in barbershop? Absolutely! Indeed, this pop classic is even contestable.
Four Foot Two
If you have a short director or singer you would like to, um, honor, then this hilarious parody is for you.
French Medley
Here are two clever WWI novelty numbers, as sung by the great 139th St. Quartet. The first is “When Yankee Doodle Learns to Parlez Vous Francais,” followed by—take a really deep breath now—”Would You Rather Be a Colonel with an Eagle on Your Shoulder, or a Private with a Chicken on Your Knee.” Hey, this was big-time stuff in 1918. . . .
Gee, I Wish I Was Back in the Army
The great Irving Berlin composed this offbeat piece. Why in the world would a carefree civilian want to go back to the regimentation of the military? Irving tells you all about it in highly humorous fashion. Continue reading Gee, I Wish I Was Back in the Army
Get Me to the Church on Time
This tune from “My Fair Lady” is a sure hit with your audiences. International champ Power Play sang it delightfully, and it is now available to your group. Continue reading Get Me to the Church on Time
Get Me to the Girl Medley
An ultra-cool combination of Get Me to the Church on Time and The Girl That I Marry, this medley is both hip and loving. No longer exclusive to Alchemy.
Girl from Kodak Town, The
This song is about a girl from—you guessed it—Rochester, N.Y. Your audiences will enjoy learning about her old-fashioned self.
Golf Medley
These parodies will ring true to anyone with even a passing familiarity with this obsession, er, sport. Goes great with I’ve Been Workin’ on My Golf Game. A bonus is that all of the songs are in public domain, thus making copyright dealings a breeze.
Gonna Get a Girl
This uptune is about turning over a new leaf. Faint heart ne’er won fair maiden!
Good Enough for Now
Weird Al Yankovic penned and sang this highly, um, offbeat number. It probably sets a world’s record for backhanded compliments to one’s sweetie. Happily, this piece is contestable. Continue reading Good Enough for Now
Goodbye Medley
An enormously funny and interesting conglomeration, the arrangement is even contestable. This winner has been recorded by SAI queens the BUZZ. The medley bashes the opposite sex, well, just a little bit. Continue reading Goodbye Medley
Grandma’s Feather Bed
This lively, happy, nostalgic John Denver song is great fun for either sex to sing. Now available in contest and show versions. James Estes has recorded learning tracks for the contest chart.
Grease Medley
Revisit Danny and Sandy in a monster medley that is great for either contest or shows. The Hot Air Buffoons no longer have exclusive rights to the piece. Of course, their take on “grease” had to do with—what else?—food!
Harmony Joe
A happy tune that just rolls along, this song can be sung in backbeat or downbeat fashion. The men’s version is published by the Society.
Have a Nice Day
Very funny for contest or shows, as sung by Shenanigans. Just how many things can go wrong today?
Hell Froze Over
This unique tune, written by Lynn Hauldren, the inimitable bari of Chordiac Arrest, chronicles some highly unlikely barbershop happenings. No longer exclusive to Rumors.
Hello, Mary Lou
The lively Ricky Nelson song works just fine for contest or show. Audiences purely love this one.
Hey, Good Lookin’
This country classic is as lively and cheery as they come. I promise you this will be extra fun for you to sing, and for your audiences to hear. Continue reading Hey, Good Lookin’
Hey, Look Me Over
Lasting just a minute, with appropriate lyrics and a big tag, this tune is just right for opening shows.
Hey, Look Me Over/If My Friends Could See Me Now!
This contestable medley from the musical Wildcat was sung by Power Play. With lots of energy built in, this piece makes a fine show-opener. Continue reading Hey, Look Me Over/If My Friends Could See Me Now!
Honey Bun/Honey Pie
The old meets the new in this fun, lively medley. That’s right, we are talking South Pacific and the Beatles—for contest, no less!
Honey, That I Love So Well
This verse-only can easily be added to the old chestnut, the Honey/Little ‘Lize Medley.
How Are You Goin’ to Wet Your Whistle?
Half of the Prohibition novelty set, this tune pairs just right with Where Do They Go When They Row, Row, Row? So put on your zoot suit and get to singing!
How Ya Gonna Keep ‘Em Down on the Farm?
Up and quite lively, this tune was very popular after WWI. The pace of life was picking up, and new (or newly widespread) inventions were changing everyday life. Automobiles, telephones, radios, victrolas, moving pictures—the world would never be the same.
Huckleberry Finn
An old-fashioned song about a carefree lad, this tune will take your audiences back in time to a slower, idealized era.
I Can’t Give You Anything but Love/Cuddle Up a Little Closer
A fresh, new take on both of these tunes, this medley is both energetic and loving.
I Don’t Care
The young woman in question is clearly going to live life her way, no matter what. And her way includes making it big on Broadway. Popularized by Harmony Inc. queen quartet Taken 4 Granite, this tune is lively, saucy and just plain fun!
I Don’t Know Enough About You/I Don’t Know Why
A contestable medley that is both slick and sweet, this piece was a hit for 2003 quartet champ Power Play. Hey, love is not always very easy to explain . . . Continue reading I Don’t Know Enough About You/I Don’t Know Why
I Got Rhythm
From the musical Girl Crazy, this swingy tune is a sure crowd-pleaser. But you had better have the rhythm in your soul if you want to pull it off.
I Had Someone Else Before I Had You/Who’s Sorry Now
You will have a lively chance to work out some of your love-related hostilities with this snappy medley. Continue reading I Had Someone Else Before I Had You/Who’s Sorry Now
I Love a Parade/Strike Up the Band
This lively, contestable march medley is sure to stir your audiences’ souls.
I Love My Baby (My Baby Loves Me)
Be young and in love again with this swingy, zippy tune. Try something new for contest.
I Never Miss the Sunshine (I’m So Used to the Rain)
Thumbing one’s nose at losing love never felt so good.
I Told Them All About You
The old Whippoorwill song has now been arranged with the correct melody and updated. Yo, it really rocks!
I Used to Call Her Baby
A most humorous tune, as sung by The New Tradition quartet. The men’s version of this arrangement is published by the BHS.
I Wanna Be like You
From the classic animated film The Jungle Book, this song is great fun to, um, monkey around with.
I Wanna Go Back to West Virginia
Your audiences will be almost in heaven when you sing this hearfelt song.
I Wanna Hear a Barbershop Song
Written by Cleveland barbershopper Al Voigt, this song is just what you would imagine it to be: sweet, sincere and happy!
I Wanna Marry Mary/Harry
Written for a Cape Town quartet by a famous South African composer, this tune was humorously inspired by his son Harry, age four.
I Was Married Up in the Air/When You’re Married
Sung by our 1985 international champion quartet, The New Tradition, this piece takes a radically dim view of marriage.
I’d Rather Be the Girl in Your Arms (Than the Girl in Your Dreams)
A cute, clever uptune for women, this song urges a reluctant man to take action—now!
I’ll Never Say “Never Again” Again
A lively swing number, this contestable tune was a hit for SAI medalist ReMix for the women and BHS medalist Metropolis for the men. We can’t really be sure about love, can we? Please specify whether you would like to preview the original ReMix version or Mo Field’s revision with intro by Jay Giallombardo—or both! Continue reading I’ll Never Say “Never Again” Again
I’m a Middle-Aged Man
Your audiences will howl at this novelty tune, composed by Joe Hunter and Tom and sung by Reveille. This may not be the best time of life for every man. Does he need to take Viagra? Depends…
I’m Beginning to Like It
This one is tough to explain. Think of a typical ’30s swing tune with modern lyrics like “hard-rock diet,” “in your face” and “MTV and AMC.” Way cool, and it is contestable too! Continue reading I’m Beginning to Like It
I’ve Been Workin’ on My Golf Game
Bet you can guess what song this parodies. Also bet you can guess how much success the poor duffer experiences after all his or her hard work. This tune goes great in a contest set with the “Golf Medley.”
If I Didn’t Have You
From the animated film Monsters Inc., this happy tune was sung as a duet by Billy Crystal and John Goodman. As a bonus, the arrangement is contestable. Continue reading If I Didn’t Have You
If I Stay Away Too Long from Carolina
The singer is worried that if he does that, he “may find somebody else with Caroline.” This arrangement was sung most cheerily by The Allies.
It’s Late
Remember the teenage angst of being out past your curfew—waaay past your curfew? Ricky Nelson sang about it back in 1958, but every word still applies today. And instead of feeling dread, your group, and your audiences, can have great fun with this tune. By the way, this song was arranged for the award-winning Cleveland Heights High School Men’s Barbershoppers.
It’s the Girl
Is it the moonlight that makes love happen? This jumpin’ tune tells you where it’s at. Metropolis had big fun with this one, as will you and your audiences.
Joint Is Jumpin’/Truckin’
A most lively dance number, this medley is great for contest. Of course, the potential for energetic choreography is limitless.
Knight School Medley
Two brave lads are almost ready to slay dragons, rescue fair damsels, drink mass quantities of mead, and the like. Will they make the grade or . . . ?
Knighthood Quest Medley
This nutty compilation contains So Long, Mother; Back in the Old Routine; Side by Side; I Love a Parade; Chattanooga Choo Choo; Bright Was the Night; and (I’m Afraid) The Masquerade Is Over. Crazy enough for you? Check out the medley below.
Knighthood Rhythm Medley
And its partner piece is composed of these tunes: I Got Rhythm, Soft Shoe Song, Tonight, By the Light of the Silvery Moon and The Hokey Pokey. All these, and you get to wear swell costumes as well!
Last Night on the Back Porch
Always a fun uptune, this song makes for lively, old-fashioned fun.
Lazy River (Up a)
Fine for either contest or show, this cheerful song helped Marquis win gold at the 1995 International, in Miami Beach. Though a bit rangy, this piece pretty much sings itself. Continue reading Lazy River (Up a)
Leader of the German Band
From way back in 1905, this tune is lots of old-fashioned fun. So come join Schmidt, Schmaltz, Heiny, Jake and Heinz in some crowd-pleasing antics. This song is published by the BHS.
Let It Rain, Let It Pour
This toe-tapping song of the sunny South is sure to put a smile on your audiences’ faces. Nothing bothers you, for you will be home “in Virginia in the morning.”
Let’s All Go Down to the Old Barber Shop
Barbershopper Danny Mills wrote this nostalgic number. Take a pleasant journey to a slower time. . .
Let’s Do It Again
This uptune about the good old days helped the Grand Tradition win a medal back in the day. It can be sung in a driving way or as an easy-beat. Though it sounds pretty old, this happy piece was actually written in the 1950s.
Let’s Go to the Movies
Tickets: check! Popcorn: check! Candy: check! Drinks: check! Come on in and grab the best seat in the house. The lights have been dimmed, the commercials and trailers are done, and now it is time for the main feature. Roll ’em! And you will be able to roll ’em too—as soon as the Scioto Valley Chorus has ended its run.
Let’s Sing Again Medley
How is this for a great combination: Let’s Sing Again, I Feel a Song Comin’ On and It’s Time to Sing “Sweet Adeline” Again? This medley makes a great contest number for the ladies.
Lunatic’s Lullaby, The
The totally nonsensical lyrics of this tune make for lots of laughs. It is way, way silly.
Mammy o’ Mine
A song of love for mother is always sure to please. Indeed, do feel free to substitute the word “Mother.”
Margie
Everyone likes this popular standard. Love and marriage, anyone?
Mary Poppins Medley
It is always a jolly ‘oliday when you sing this delightful piece. It contains Jolly Holiday, Chim Chim Cher-ee, Step in Time and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. This medley pairs very well with the lovely ballad Feed the Birds.
Mein Bruder macht im Tonfilm die Geräusche
Partly in English and partly in German, this song is, well . . . what it is, is . . . different—and great fun! The English title is “My Brother Makes the Sound Effects for Movies.” The sounds included are a mix of vocal, electronic and mechanical effects. And the piece is contestable too. It could be redone for your group to be all in one language or the other.
Mexicali Rose
This C&W classic harmonizes just fine for barbershop and has multi-cultural appeal. A Spanish translation of the chorus is included. Sing both choruses to please a wide audience, even in contest.
Michigan Rag
This energetic uptune was arranged, and partially composed, for Michigan Jake. It was sung in a cartoon by the one and only Michigan J. Frog, for whom that gold-medal quartet is named. If your lead(s) can handle a disjunct melody, this lively number is for you!
Mischief Medley
For some solid barbershop fun, check out this combination of Freckles and Peck’s Bad Boy. Both lads are just that little bit wicked. Take your audiences back in time with these two tunes from circa 1920.
Moon Medley
This old-time medley contains Bright Was the Night, Moonlight Bay and By the Light of the Silvery Moon. How is that for some vintage classics?
Moving Picture Hero of My Heart, The
This cute novelty number is for women only. The old-fashioned references make for great fun.
Music, Magic and Harmony
Written by barbershopper Anne Danforth, this lovely song celebrates our music and the friends we sing it with.
My Brother Makes the Sound Effects for Movies
Partly in English and partly in German, this song is, well . . . what it is, is . . . different—and great fun! The sounds included are a mix of vocal, electronic and mechanical effects. And it is contestable too. It could be redone for your group to be all in one language or the other. The German title is “Mein Bruder macht im Tonfilm die Geräusche.”
My Fraternity Pin
A novelty song about the travels of a token of love, this tune is large fun. The men’s version of this arrangement is published by the BHS.
My Wife Is on a Diet
This witty song is popular with high school boys for some reason. Go figure. Of course, grownups like this Cincinnati Kids’ song even more.
No One Loves You Any Better Than Your M-A-Double M-Y
There is no need to obtain this song from Tom – both the BHS and SAI stock the arrangement – but it is listed just because it is such a classic.
Nobody’s Sweetheart
Both the Interstate Rivals and the Alexandria Harmonizers won gold with this arrangement, which tells of a fast girl who ended up a lonely woman. The men’s version of this arrangement is published by the BHS.
Nowhere to Go but Up
From the movie Mary Poppins Returns, this delightful song will take you on a natural high. You won’t be flying a kite—you will soar over the town, maybe even heading to the moon. This arrangement is fine for contests using the BHS judging system but might be more suitable for shows in the Sweet Adelines world.
Oliver Medley
What do you call a medley of Consider Yourself; Food, Glorious Food; and Who Will Buy? Big fun, that’s what! This high-energy contest piece is no longer exclusive to the Brothers in Harmony.
Orange Colored Sky
This one is way fun and makes a great opener or closer. It is available in both contest and show versions. Continue reading Orange Colored Sky
Paging Mister Sousa
No longer exclusive to the Spirit of Phoenix, this rousing tune grabs our barbershop audiences right from the start.
Peter Pan Medley
Have a look at this delightful combination of You Can Fly!, I Won’t Grow Up, Captain Hook’s Waltz and The Chase. We have here a unique mix of humor and heart that the child in you will purely love. Sing it in contest along with the lovely ballad Second Star to the Right, which comes from the animated film Peter Pan.
Plain
Be sure to include this parody in your next Amish package. You will be doing an Amish package, right?
Popeye Medley
Olive Oyl, Swee’ Pea, Wimpy, Bluto and the Sailor Man himself are all featured in this parody melange. Suitable for contest, this medley would also make a great centerpiece for a fun show theme.
Pray for Sunshine
. . . but always be prepared for rain, cautions this lively uptune. It is great to be optimistic, but don’t be siimply foolish.
Pretty Baby
This fun meter parody is quite contestable. The lovable quartet Shenanigans had a hit with it, and so could your quartet or chorus.
Prison Medley
Parodies on well-known songs tell of each quartet member’s upcoming stint in Alcatraz, Sing Sing, Marion and Leavenworth. No longer exclusive to Rumors, this piece will really, uh, capture your audiences’ attention.
Professional Pirate
A yo-ho-ho and a bottle of Captain Morgan’s, ye scurvy landlubbers! This clever song from the film Muppet Treasure Island will shiver your timbers for sure.
Razzapple Medley
This high-energy mix of Razzle Dazzle and Applause is no longer exclusive to the Phoenicians. Start off your performances with a Broadway flair!
Razzle Dazzle
From the hit musical and movie Chicago, this fast-paced song is quite lively and clever. So it’s time for you to “hypnotizzy” your audiences. . . . Continue reading Razzle Dazzle
Redneck Kind of Guy
The wall-to-well redneck jokes will have your audience swallowing their chawin’ tobaccy. No longer exclusive to Overture.
Rocky Top
This tune is high-energy, recognizable and just plain fun. On top of that, the arrangement is fine for contest. So what are you waiting for? Have a sip of moonshine and give it a try!
Rose Medley
Three flowery songs for women comprise this medley: When You Wore a Tulip; A Robin and a Rainbow and a Red, Red Rose; and Looking at the World Through Rose Colored Glasses. Do give this fragrant medley a try.
Royal Garden Blues
Contestable, substantial and lively, this tune was sung by Power Play. See if your group too can make that “trombone moan.”
Santa Claus Parade, The
Here is a fun march your group can sing all year round. It makes a wonderful costume piece and can be combined with an appropriate ballad—for example, Why Doesn’t Santa Claus Go Next Door or The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot—in a memorable contest set.
Sea Medley
Well, this medley is, um, hard to explain. The theme is a crew appealing to the captain for shore leave. And there are lots and lots of songs in it. For sure, it is funny. It would make a great contest piece for an ambitious group, or sing it on a show.
See Saw
This waltzy tune of childhood pleasures is sure to bring out the happy kid in everyone.
Seventy Six Percent
Does your quartet want to make the cut for International? If so, pleading with the judges might just help you pull it off. This piece is exclusive to Boardwalk right now, but maybe someday. . . .
Seventy Six Trombones
What could be more barbershop than strutting around that stage to this tune from The Music Man? Time for energetic fun!
Shop-Vac
A wildly creative commentary on lonely life in the suburbs, this song can be sung in contest. You need to experience this offbeat tune at least one in your life.
Side by Side
Some surprise harmonies flavor this arrangement of the classic barbershop song. Power Play won gold with this upbeat, lively tune. Continue reading Side by Side
Song’s Gotta Come from the Heart
Ya gotta have heart, and this lively Power Play tune lets your audience know that you do. There is energy galore in this tune.
Spaceman Medley
Performed by Germany’s Erster Koelner Barbershop Chor, this unique medley allows for lots of costuming, action and just plain fun. Goes well as a contest set with the ballad parody If the Rest of the Worlds Don’t Want You.
Standing/Leaning Medley
A charming mix of Standing on the Corner and Leaning on a Lamp-Post, this medley is about watching all the girls go by—or waiting for just that special one.
Steam Heat
From the 1954 Broadway musical The Pajama Game, this tune is hot. No, it’s hotter than hot! The Cleveland Heights High School Women Barbershoppers will be debuting this sultry song at the Midwinter Convention, so do keep an eye out for them. The piece is probably not suitable for SAI contests, but it is great for shows. And don’t forget to wear your black derbies. . . .
Sugartime
What could be sweeter than singing this McGuire Sisters’ piece of confection? Your quartet or chorus will find out you definitely have not bitten off more than you can chew. Continue reading Sugartime
Sunday Night in Sydney
Happy and romantic, this tune is sort of a Down Under version of A Foggy Day in London Town.
Sweet She (He) Ain’t
Ever wonder what would happen if your group reversed its standing position? A barbershop classic might well come out backward, to highly funny effect. This tune is a sure audience-grabber. It fits both men and women just fine.
Taboo (Tabu)
This is an offbeat, fun, potentially contestable list of forbidden things. The original was in German, but the piece is available in English as well.
Take Me Out to the Ball Game
This is the classic fun version, the one where the notes and words somehow become one notch off. All’s well that ends well, though.
That Charlie Chaplin Walk
A cute tune about the great comedian, this song was arranged for 1985 quartet champ The New Tradition.
That’s My Weakness Now/That Certain Party
Swing Street on the ladies’ side and SRO for the men sang this energetic love medley. Pick up on this proven winner for your group. Continue reading That’s My Weakness Now/That Certain Party
There Is Only One of You
An ode to uniqueness, this tune makes for plenty of weird fun.
There’ll Be No New Tunes on This Old Piano
Ragtime Joe may be just a little bit obstinate, but his taste in music is outstanding. Your audiences are sure to love this barbershop classic.
They Call It Dancing
Even back in 1921 the older folks thought the young ones’ dances were just too racy. In the middle of this Irving Berlin song is an eclectic mix of Blame It on the Bossa Nova, La Bamba, Put Your Head on My Shoulder and Hernando’s Hideaway. You too can put your dancing shoes on now that the Granite Statesmen have debuted this piece at International.
They Go Wild, Simply Wild over Me
This arrogantly fun uptune was debuted by our 1984 champs, The Rapscallions, and revived in most humorous fashion by popular medalist quartet Metropolis.
Those Old-Time Sing-Along Songs
I wrote and arranged the setting for this medley of sing-along standards: She’ll Be Comin’ ‘Round The Mountain, I’ve Been Workin’ on the Railroad and My Bonnie Lies over the Ocean. Your audiences will enjoy participating rather than simply listening.
Three Birds Medley
This parody of the “Three Girls Medley” is plenty of fun. Here are the three tunes included: “My Little Magpie,” “No, No, Nuthatch” and “Robin, My Breast Is Throbbin’.”So if you sing in a bird-brained group. . . .
To Morrow
Well, this is sure a unique song. Written way, way back in 1898, this novelty tune was covered by the Kingston Trio in the late 1950s. The fellow tells the agent wants to take a train to Morrow, well, today. Confusion ensues, which will lead to merriment for you and your audiences!
Tomorrow
A peppy Dixie uptune, this song is a solid choice for contest. Hey, you will be home . . . tomorrow.
Too Marvelous
This clever love song is just too marvelous not to sing. Hey, that is what international medalist State Line Grocery thought. How about you?
Tough Broads Medley
Here are three quite interesting songs about, um, unique women. Would you believe Sob Sister Sadie, Hard Boiled Rose and Dangerous Nan McGrew?
Triplets
This quite humorous song, which I also wrote, was a hit for international medalist Riptide.
Twenties Dance Medley
Composed of three very lively tunes, this medley has great choreographic possibilities for a chorus. Hey, it’s time for you to do the Charleston, Varsity Drag and Black Bottom.
Ukulele Lady
Here is some gentle, sweet, lighthearted fun for you and your audiences. Mm, can’t you just feel the warm breeze and taste the drink with the little umbrella in it.. . . . The highly entertaining quartet Boardwalk can.
Uncle Watt’s Original Fantascinatin’ Roadside Stand
Funny and wordy, as sung by Joker’s Wild, this piece could be made contestable. You will not believe the rapid-fire list of roadside attractions included in this clever song.
VMbarrassment
Has your envy of the fabulous Vocal Majority ever caused you to want to poke a little fun at them? Now is your chance. This parody will spice up any barbershop performance.
Waltz Me Around Again Willie
Here is some old-fashioned fun in 3/4 time. It is the happy tale of Madeline Mooney, “who’d rather be dancing than eat.”
Way You Look Tonight, The
And now for something completely different. This jazzy version of a song usually heard as a barbershop ballad is patterned after Frank Sinatra’s interpretation. If you have some swing in your soul, give this one a look and a listen. Continue reading Way You Look Tonight, The
We’re on Our Way
Barbershopper Fred Tremper wrote this piece about Broadway stardom. Hey, perhaps this tune can send you on your way as well.
Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Swing
A Cab Calloway tune that really swings, this witty song has something for everyone. It is no longer exclusive to Sweden’s Dalton Bros., so do give it a shot.
What Do You Do with Your Arms?
A witty conundrum for us singers, this tune was arranged for the Cleveland Heights High School Men’s Barbershoppers. The funny, clever piece, with lots of built-in movement ideas, would be great for adult men too (and could be put into women’s voicing).
What Ever Happened to the Old Songs
Here is a new twist on an all-time favorite of us barbershoppers. Various popular oldies are referenced within this piece.
When a Boy from Alabama (Meets a Girl from Gundagai)
A lonesome doughboy on R&R in Australia finds that those initials just might stand for Romance & Relationship. This tune offers plenty of light fun.
When I Get You Alone Tonight
A fun song about billing and cooing, this lively tune paints vivid picture of innocent romance.
When I Just Wear My Smile
Ready to thumb your nose at fashion snobbery? With its ever-so-mildly risque lyrics, this Mama Cass tune is bound to be hit, whether on the contest stage or in a show. Continue reading When I Just Wear My Smile
When I’m Sixty-Four
This Beatles’ song is always a kick, for singers and audience members alike. The men’s version of this arrangement is published by the BHS. Of course, you can vary the lyrics to reference any age that ends in a four. Continue reading When I’m Sixty-Four
When the Red, Red Robin Comes Bob-Bob-Bobbin’ Along
This uptune is a favorite with all audiences. They know it, they love it; so give it a look-see.
When They’re Old Enough to Know Better
. . . it’s better to leave them alone, says this novelty tune. This is not the version sung by the 139th St. Quartet, by the way, but it is still great fun.
Where Did Robinson Crusoe Go with Friday on Saturday Night
This cute novelty tune tells of the wild things that can happen on a faraway island.
Where Do They Go When They Row-Row-Row?
This clever number combines very well with How Are You Goin’ to Wet Your Whistle in a Prohibition novelty set. Did Joe send you?
Where Is Your Heart At
This energetic song is a pure delight. If you figure out what the words mean, do let me know.
Who’s Gonna Love You When I’m Gone?
Did you ever have the feeling that you just should not leave home? Hey, when the cat’s away, the kitten just may play.
Who’s in the Strawberry Patch with Sally
This is the cute pop hit popularized by Tony Orlando & Dawn. Suspicion seems to be going around, eh?
Who’s Sorry Now?
This tune is available in both the typical uptune version and a new cool/hot treatment. The latter is quite unique, so do yourself a favor and give it a try.
You Can’t Get a Man with a Gun
The great Irving Berlin makes some of his best word plays in this delightful song. From the musical Annie Get Your Gun, this contestable tune is for women only. Continue reading You Can’t Get a Man with a Gun
You’ve Got to See Mamma Every Night
This is a highly cute song that lays down the law about fidelity. For sure it is for women only, and the ladies know how to sing it! Continue reading You’ve Got to See Mamma Every Night
Your Tattoo
Love does not always last forever, but some things do. This humorous song is just fine for contest, so do give it a whirl.