The Internet is a vast and scary place, full of unseen faces and an ever-growing pile of jargon. One term commonly used by Internet cronies is “herp derp.” Don’t worry, we’ll break it down for you. The phrase is applied to a situation when somebody has done something stupid, idiotic, etc. The Online Slang Dictionary describes it as “an interjection in response to an unintelligent comment.” In other words, “you must be kidding me.” Here are some songs that inspire just such a reaction. (For those who are academically interested in the subject, you can currently major in herpetology, but not derpetology.)
“Never Gonna Give you Up” – Rick Astley
Ever thought you were about to behold the best Youtube video ever only to hear that all-consuming death knell? The over-synthed 1980s intro kicks in, and you’ve just been Rick-Rolled again. A disheartening experience to be sure, but at least you’re not Rick Astley. Oh, that hair.
“Ice Ice Baby” – Vanilla Ice
Few people are distinguished with as interesting a name as Robert Van Winkle. Somehow, he still managed to make his stage name sound even more Caucasian. Ever-brilliant, he continued his career by ripping off a Queen/David Bowie bass line.
“I Am Glad, ‘cause I’m Finally Returning Back Home” a.k.a. Trololo – Eduard Khil
Sometimes referred to as the Russian Rick-Roll, this song composed of complete gibberish has become something of an anthem for Internet pranksters and, well—trolls. If you’ve already heard the original, check out the dubstep remix for some extra derpage.
“Loser” – Beck
This song started as Beck making fun of his own inability to rap, and was never meant to be recorded. Eventually though, his record label “Bong Load” convinced him to release it. Overall a brilliant piece of nonsensical imagery that’s like drugs for your ears.
“Red Solo Cup” – Toby Keith
Quite possibly the worst song of 2012. Toby Keith has given up on his controversial political statements (i.e. We’ll stick a boot up your ass, it’s the American way) and instead reverted to a simpler and more innocent state of worshipping pieces of flimsy red plastic.
“The Ballad of Buckethead” – Buckethead
Guest vocals from Les Claypool of Primus make this song a work of creepy genius. It tells the life story of the guitarist known as Buckethead, who actually wears a KFC bucket and Michael Meyers-esque mask on his head when performing. As the story goes, he was raised by chickens before burning down the coop out of teenage rage. Then he did puppet shows on street corners until he could afford a guitar, and the rest it history.
“Scream and Shout” – will.i.am and Britney Spears
It’s always sad to see one sold-out artist drag another one down into the depths—and we all know what winds up in the depths will soon be washed up. Full of shameless advertising, tasteless lyrics and a message that’s sure to leave you head scratching, they really must have been messin’ with us.
