Name That Tune

Name That Tune

If your music were a game show, which one would it be?

Written By

Randy Nordschow

I have a new insomnia-fueled obsession: game shows. In truth, these televised diversions have always held a bit of fascination for me; I can remember watching The Price Is Right when I a was a little kid. But what’s the attraction? Is it the tacky sets? The overwrought music that fills in the gaps between the action? Or is it the actual testing of the I.Q. and playing along? Yes, it’s all of the above. After learning that John Cage funded his early years as a composer with game show winnings, now more than ever I’m tempted to try out for something, but what?

I can’t stand that stupid Deal or No Deal. I mean, you don’t even have to answer any general knowledge questions to win a million dollars. I’ve confessed that I’m lazy, but my need to show off the vast amount of useless information stored in my brain would simply feel too neglected when faced with those numbered briefcases. I also detest that Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?. I wouldn’t be able to tolerate being onstage with that annoying host long enough to win a jackpot. Alex Trebek seems much more amiable, but my lack of a Mensa membership would be a public embarrassment—so Jeopardy is a definite no-no.

I wish Who Wants to Be a Millionaire was still around in prime time and actively seeking contestants—I’d so audition. For some reason the show’s simplicity and intimacy create an entertaining balance. Like a good composition, the show creates drama, but not too much. It holds your attention, without throttling it. It has inevitability, but you don’t know exactly what’s going to happen. Music really is a lot like a game show. In fact, I’ll ask the question: If your music were a game show, which one would it be? I’ll go first. My music is probably more The Match Game—like back when Brett Somers and Charles Nelson Riley were regulars.