Born in Downey, California, and raised in the town of Lynwood, Alfred Matthew Yankovic singer, comedian, satirist, parodist - and accordionist - is known for his songs that make light of popular culture by parodying hit songs.
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Beginning in 1976, when Al was only 17 years-old, he has sold more than 12 million albums - more than any other comedy act in history. He has recorded more than 150 parody and original songs, and has performed in over 1,000 live shows. Yankovic's success comes in part from music videos that parody the song's original artist, and the original music videos.
He has been awarded three Grammy Awards among nine nominations, four gold records, and six platinum records in the United States. Yankovic's first top ten Billboard album (Straight Outta Lynwood) and single ("White & Nerdy") were both released in 2006 - 30 years after his first one.
He directed later videos himself and went on to direct for other artists including Ben Folds, Hanson, Black Crowes, and The Presidents of the United States of America. Yankovic also wrote and starred in the film, UHF, and television show, The Weird Al Show. He has also made guest appearances on many television shows, in addition to starring in Al TV specials on MTV.
Prince has refused Yankovic permission to record parodies of his songs. Yankovic has stated in interviews that he has "approached him every few years [to] see if he's lightened up."
Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page - a self-proclaimed Yankovic fan - refused Al request to to create a polka medley of Led Zeppelin songs. Likewise, Paul McCartney - another fan- refused Yankovic permission to record a parody of Wings' "Live and Let Die," entitled "Chicken Pot Pie," because McCartney, who is a vegetarian - found the parody to be distasteful.
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