Back in the late ’90s, a below-the-radar comedy duo called Scharpling & Wurster unleashed "Rock, Rot & Rule" on an unsuspecting public. The "skit" was originally broadcast on New Jersey’s WFMU. It’s been years since I’ve listened this little gem, but it’s still awesome.

The segment features one Ronald Thomas Clontle — supposed author of Rock, Rot & Rule: The Ultimate Argument Settler™ — chatting about his new book with host Tom Scharpling. Slow-burn hilarity ensues in the kind of meta-prank that would make Andy Kauffman proud.

According to Clontle, Chilliwack rule, while The Beatles merely rock. Neil Young rots. Suffice it to say, his statements generate more than a few phone calls from incredulous music fans. "Time will vindicate me" is Clontle’s answer to his critics.

This a big file, but definitely worth a download:

Sharpling & Wurster — "Rock, Rot & Rule"

If you like it, please buy a CD or something.

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About the author

Casey Rae-Hunter
Casey Rae-Hunter is a musician, public policy wonk and the editor/publisher of The Contrarian Media. An in-demand speaker, he gives frequent talks at conferences and campuses on issues at the intersection of creativity, technology, policy and law, and is a go-to source for major media outlets from NPR to the New York Times. Casey works alongside leaders in the music, arts and performance sectors to bolster understanding of and engagement in key policy and technology issues, and has written dozens of articles on the impact of technology on the creative community. Casey is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University and the Deputy Director for Future of Music Coalition. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Media & Democracy Coalition and the National Alliance for Media Arts and Culture. The Contrarian does not necessarily represent the views of the organizations to which he belongs.

1 Comment for The Ultimate Argument Settler™

colin

I love rock, rot and rule!

wurster’s in superchunk, too!

yow!
cc