The Saga Begins

Where they were

"Weird Al" Yankovic was already an established figure in parody music by 1999, with this release marking his first single from the album 'Running with Scissors'. This period saw him transitioning to a more mainstream audience while maintaining his signature style, following the commercial success of previous albums like 'Bad Hair Day' in 1996.

Why it matters

The album's title track, "The Saga Begins," creatively parodies Don McLean's "American Pie" while narrating the plot of 'Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace'. It received critical acclaim for its clever lyrics and became a cultural touchstone within both the 'Star Wars' and comedy music communities, showcasing Yankovic's unique ability to blend pop culture with humor.

Essential tracks

• "The Saga Begins" — This track stands out for its witty retelling of a well-known film narrative through clever wordplay and thematic depth.