IFLTS: 'Short People,' Randy Newman

'Short People,' Randy Newman
From 1977's 'Little Criminals'

'Short People' rules. It sets the precedent for every piece of witty, acerbic pop music made for and by underdogs. The song is about the inherent absurdity of prejudice. It is a biting satire that is equally mean-spirited and joyous, as it presents an argument for the inferiority of the vertically challenged. The lyrics are only part of it, though. The vibe of this track is unbelievable. It was recorded with top L.A. session musicians at a time when they also were peddling soul. The recording speeds up a lot over its duration -- no one gets away with stuff like that now. I once saw Sara and Sean Watkins from Nickel Creek cover this song, and I fell in love with it all over again. I know a 5-year-old girl who makes her mum play this on repeat all the way to school each day. It works on all levels at once -- emotional, intellectual, visceral. And that is what music is supposed to do.

Hear the song after the jump.Ben Lee is a singer-songwriter from Sydney, Australia. His new album, 'Ripe,' which features collaborations with Mandy Moore and Good Charlotte's Benji Madden, among others, is in stores now.

Listen to 'Ripe'

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