The world of music is filled with countless songs that have become ingrained in our culture, and one such song is “Coconut” by Harry Nilsson. However, there’s a common misconception that Harry Belafonte sang the famous line “put the lime in the coconut.” In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the song, its creation, and the artists involved to set the record straight.
Introduction to Harry Belafonte and Harry Nilsson
Before we dive into the specifics of the song, it’s essential to understand the backgrounds of the two artists in question. Harry Belafonte is a Jamaican-American singer, songwriter, actor, and social activist who rose to fame in the 1950s with his unique blend of calypso music and American pop. He’s known for his charismatic stage presence and hit songs like “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” and “Jump in the Line.”
On the other hand, Harry Nilsson was an American singer-songwriter who gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s with his eclectic and often humorous songs. Nilsson was known for his distinctive voice and hits like “Everybody’s Talkin'” and “Without You.”
The Creation of “Coconut”
“Coconut” is a song written and recorded by Harry Nilsson in 1971. The song’s lyrics are somewhat nonsensical, telling the story of a person who puts the lime in the coconut and drinks them both up. The song’s catchy melody and Nilsson’s distinctive vocals made it an instant hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
According to Nilsson, the idea for “Coconut” came to him while he was on vacation in the Philippines. He was inspired by the local culture and the sound of the tinny guitars played by street musicians. Nilsson has said in interviews that he wrote the song as a joke, but it ended up becoming one of his most popular and enduring songs.
Honest Mistake or Misremembering?
So, why do so many people think that Harry Belafonte sang “put the lime in the coconut”? One reason may be that Belafonte was already a well-established artist with a repertoire of calypso-inspired songs, which could have led people to associate him with the song’s tropical vibe. Additionally, Belafonte’s music often featured a mix of Caribbean rhythms and American pop, which might have led some to assume that he was the one singing about coconuts and limes.
Another possibility is that people simply misremember the song or confuse it with another song by Belafonte. This phenomenon is known as the “Mandela effect,” where large groups of people remember an event or detail differently than what is recorded in history books or other sources.
Setting the Record Straight
Despite the confusion, there’s no doubt that Harry Nilsson is the one who sang “put the lime in the coconut.” The song’s credits, as well as numerous interviews and accounts from Nilsson himself, confirm that he wrote and recorded the song.
To further clarify, let’s examine the evidence:
- Nilsson’s own testimony: In various interviews, Nilsson has consistently stated that he wrote and recorded “Coconut” as a humorous song.
- Song credits: The song’s credits, including the original 1971 release and subsequent re-releases, list Nilsson as the songwriter and performer.
Honoring the Legacy of Both Artists
While we’ve established that Harry Nilsson sang “put the lime in the coconut,” it’s essential to recognize the contributions of both Nilsson and Belafonte to the world of music. Both artists have left an indelible mark on the industry, and their music continues to inspire and entertain new generations of fans.
Belafonte’s influence on popular music is undeniable, and his music has had a lasting impact on the development of calypso and world music. Nilsson, on the other hand, was a true original, known for his quirky sense of humor and innovative approach to songwriting.
A Legacy of Innovation and Creativity
The story of “Coconut” serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and innovation in music. Nilsson’s willingness to take risks and push boundaries resulted in a song that has become a beloved classic, and his legacy continues to inspire artists and musicians to this day.
As we reflect on the careers of both Harry Belafonte and Harry Nilsson, we’re reminded of the importance of preserving and honoring the history of music. By setting the record straight and giving credit where credit is due, we can ensure that the contributions of these legendary artists are not forgotten.
In conclusion, while Harry Belafonte did not sing “put the lime in the coconut,” his music and legacy continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world. Meanwhile, Harry Nilsson’s “Coconut” remains a timeless classic, and its catchy melody and nonsensical lyrics continue to delight audiences to this day. The next time you find yourself singing along to “Coconut,” remember the true story behind the song and the talented artist who brought it to life.
What is the song “Put the Lime in the Coconut” and who originally sang it?
The song “Put the Lime in the Coconut” is a popular novelty song that has been a subject of debate regarding its original performer. The song’s catchy melody and quirky lyrics have made it a beloved tune for many music enthusiasts. It is often attributed to Harry Belafonte, a renowned calypso singer, but this attribution has been disputed over the years. Despite the uncertainty surrounding its original performer, the song remains a timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences.
The song’s origins can be traced back to the 1970s, when it was first recorded by Harry Nilsson, an American singer-songwriter. Nilsson’s version of the song, which was released in 1971, features his distinctive vocals and a lively instrumental arrangement. While Harry Belafonte was indeed a prominent figure in the calypso music scene, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that he sang “Put the Lime in the Coconut.” In fact, most credible sources attribute the song to Harry Nilsson, putting the debate to rest. Nilsson’s version of the song has become the most well-known and widely recognized, and it continues to be enjoyed by music fans of all ages.
Why do people often attribute “Put the Lime in the Coconut” to Harry Belafonte?
The attribution of “Put the Lime in the Coconut” to Harry Belafonte can be explained by his immense popularity as a calypso singer during the 1950s and 1960s. Belafonte was known for his charismatic stage presence and hit songs like “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” and “Jamaica Farewell.” His music often featured a mix of calypso, folk, and pop elements, which may have led some people to associate him with the song. Additionally, Belafonte’s music was widely popularized through his live performances and television appearances, which may have contributed to the misconception that he sang “Put the Lime in the Coconut.”
Despite the lack of evidence supporting Belafonte’s involvement with the song, the misconception has persisted over the years. This can be attributed to the fact that Belafonte’s music was often categorized as calypso or island music, which may have led some people to assume that he sang any song that fit within this genre. However, it is essential to rely on credible sources and historical records to determine the accurate origins of a song. In the case of “Put the Lime in the Coconut,” the evidence points to Harry Nilsson as the original performer, putting the debate to rest and giving credit to the correct artist.
What is the significance of “Put the Lime in the Coconut” in popular culture?
“Put the Lime in the Coconut” has become a cultural phenomenon, with its catchy melody and quirky lyrics making it a staple in popular culture. The song has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, often used to evoke a sense of nostalgia or playfulness. Its significance extends beyond its musical value, as it has become a cultural reference point that is instantly recognizable to many people. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the power of music to evoke emotions and memories.
The song’s impact on popular culture can be seen in its numerous covers and parodies over the years. Many artists have recorded their own versions of the song, putting their unique spin on the classic tune. Additionally, the song has been referenced in various forms of media, from films and television shows to advertisements and memes. The song’s versatility and catchy melody have made it a favorite among music enthusiasts and creators alike, ensuring its continued relevance and popularity in modern times. Whether used in a nostalgic context or as a humorous reference, “Put the Lime in the Coconut” remains a beloved song that continues to entertain and inspire new generations of music fans.
How did Harry Nilsson’s version of “Put the Lime in the Coconut” become so popular?
Harry Nilsson’s version of “Put the Lime in the Coconut” became a huge success due to its unique blend of folk, rock, and pop elements. The song’s catchy melody, combined with Nilsson’s distinctive vocals and the song’s quirky lyrics, made it an instant hit with audiences. The song’s release in 1971 coincided with a growing interest in novelty songs and comedy music, which helped to fuel its popularity. Additionally, Nilsson’s reputation as a talented singer-songwriter and his previous hits, such as “Everybody’s Talkin’,” contributed to the song’s success.
The song’s popularity was further amplified by its inclusion on Nilsson’s album “Nilsson Schmilsson,” which featured a mix of original songs and covers. The album received critical acclaim and commercial success, with “Put the Lime in the Coconut” being one of its standout tracks. The song’s popularity has endured long after its initial release, with it remaining a fan favorite and a staple of 1970s music. Nilsson’s version of the song has been widely praised for its infectious energy and catchy melody, making it a timeless classic that continues to entertain audiences to this day. The song’s success can be attributed to a combination of its unique sound, Nilsson’s talent, and the cultural context in which it was released.
What is the historical context of “Put the Lime in the Coconut,” and how does it reflect the musical trends of its time?
The historical context of “Put the Lime in the Coconut” is rooted in the musical trends of the 1970s, a time of great creative experimentation and diversity in popular music. The song’s release in 1971 coincided with a growing interest in folk rock, singer-songwriter music, and novelty songs. The song’s unique blend of folk, rock, and pop elements reflects the eclectic nature of 1970s music, which often featured artists experimenting with different styles and genres. The song’s quirky lyrics and catchy melody also reflect the lighthearted and humorous tone that characterized much of the music of the era.
The song’s historical context is also reflected in its production quality and instrumentation. The song features a mix of acoustic and electric instruments, including guitars, keyboards, and percussion, which was typical of the era’s folk rock sound. The song’s production is also notable for its use of multitrack recording and other studio techniques, which were becoming increasingly popular in the early 1970s. The song’s sound is distinctly retro, with a warm and analog quality that is reminiscent of the era’s music. Overall, “Put the Lime in the Coconut” is a product of its time, reflecting the musical trends and cultural attitudes of the early 1970s in a way that continues to delight and entertain audiences today.
How has “Put the Lime in the Coconut” been covered and parodied over the years?
“Put the Lime in the Coconut” has been covered and parodied by numerous artists over the years, with each version putting a unique spin on the classic song. The song’s catchy melody and quirky lyrics have made it a favorite among musicians and comedians, who often use it as a vehicle for their own creative expression. Some notable covers of the song include versions by Jimmy Buffett, Barenaked Ladies, and They Might Be Giants, each of which brings a unique energy and style to the song. The song has also been parodied and referenced in various forms of media, from films and television shows to advertisements and memes.
The song’s versatility and catchy melody have made it a popular choice for covers and parodies, with many artists using it as a way to showcase their creativity and humor. The song’s parodies often play on its quirky lyrics and catchy melody, using them as a starting point for their own comedic creations. The song’s covers, on the other hand, often seek to reinterpret the song in a new and interesting way, whether through a change in genre, instrumentation, or vocal style. Overall, the numerous covers and parodies of “Put the Lime in the Coconut” are a testament to the song’s enduring popularity and its ability to inspire creativity and humor in others. Whether used as a vehicle for comedy or as a way to pay tribute to the original, the song remains a beloved classic that continues to entertain and delight audiences.
What is Harry Nilsson’s legacy, and how does “Put the Lime in the Coconut” fit into his overall body of work?
Harry Nilsson’s legacy is that of a highly influential and innovative singer-songwriter, known for his unique vocal style and eclectic approach to music. Nilsson’s body of work spans multiple genres, including folk, rock, pop, and children’s music, and features a wide range of songs that showcase his creativity and talent. “Put the Lime in the Coconut” is just one example of Nilsson’s ability to craft catchy and memorable songs that have become ingrained in popular culture. The song’s success is a testament to Nilsson’s skill as a songwriter and his ability to connect with audiences through his music.
Nilsson’s legacy extends far beyond “Put the Lime in the Coconut,” with a body of work that includes numerous classic songs and albums. Some of his most notable works include the songs “Everybody’s Talkin'” and “Without You,” as well as the albums “Nilsson Schmilsson” and “Son of Schmilsson.” Nilsson’s music has been widely praised for its originality and creativity, and he is often cited as an influence by other artists. Despite his passing in 1994, Nilsson’s music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world, with “Put the Lime in the Coconut” remaining one of his most beloved and enduring songs. The song’s inclusion in his overall body of work is a testament to Nilsson’s innovative spirit and his ability to craft songs that are both timeless and unforgettable.