Big Head

Album: Unbeatable Bygraves (1953)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • In his autobiography, Max Bygraves relates the genesis of this song. His initial forays into show business were as an impressionist, and he created a catch phrase "Big 'ead" while performing on the radio. This caught on, and the songwriter Jack Meadows came up with a song which he recorded on HMV. "Big Head" (Pronounced "Big 'ead") retailed for one shilling. But although it sold well, "a letter to a newspaper gave a different interpretation to the composition."

    He was he said "blamed for taking a rise from people afflicted with a deformity." Who says political correctness is a modern phenomenon? The result of that was that the song faded from view, although later in his career, Max would play up to the stereotype himself. It was also this experience he said that led to him writing his own material. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Alexander Baron - London, England

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

JJ Burnel of The Stranglers

JJ Burnel of The StranglersSongwriter Interviews

JJ talks about The Stranglers' signature sound - keyboard and bass - which isn't your typical strain of punk rock.

Frankie Valli

Frankie ValliSong Writing

An interview with Frankie Valli, who talks about why his songs - both solo and with The Four Seasons - have endured, and reflects on his time as Rusty Millio on The Sopranos.

James Williamson of Iggy & the Stooges

James Williamson of Iggy & the StoogesSongwriter Interviews

The Stooges guitarist (and producer of the Kill City album) talks about those early recordings and what really happened with David Bowie.

Tom Keifer of Cinderella

Tom Keifer of CinderellaSongwriter Interviews

Tom talks about the evolution of Cinderella's songs through their first three albums, and how he writes as a solo artist.

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About Transgenderism

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About TransgenderismSong Writing

A history of songs dealing with transgender issues, featuring Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Morrissey and Green Day.

Bob Dylan Lyric Quiz

Bob Dylan Lyric QuizMusic Quiz

Think you know your Bob Dylan lyrics? Take this quiz to find out.