Randy Newman is such a brilliant satirist that it’s probably safe to say that any “bad” song he’s ever written was bad on purpose.
I suspect that is exactly the case with ‘Masterman and Baby J,’ his stab at a rap anthem. He had to mean this as a parody of some sort. And yet I don’t think that really matters… it’s still embarrassing.
Here’s an odd little song from Randy Newman’s 1988 album Land of Dreams.
This album, the only studio record Newman released between 1983 and 1999, is a bit of a mixed bag. It starts off with his most autobiographical work — several songs that describe his childhood in New Orleans.
Better known are the late-album tracks ‘It’s Money that Matters’ and ‘I Want You to Hurt Like I Do,’ each with Newman’s typical satirical edge. Also featured is ‘Masterman and Baby J,’ Newman’s ill-advised parody (I think) of a rap song.
Usually when I browse CDs in a used music shop, I marvel at all the great deals I could have had if I didn’t have so damn many CDs already.
I’ll see a great Elvis Costello album for $2 or a little-known indie gem for a buck-fifty and envy the people who might stumble upon it after me and enjoy the thrill of discovery bundled with the satisfaction of a real bargain.
Meet Me In Montauk 