A Nostalgic Look at The Banana Splits and Its Mind-Blowing Theme Song

Do you remember the old TV show The Banana Splits? If you're like many of us, the memories may be a bit fuzzy. But let's delve into the details and explore why this show stands out in the era of nostalgic TV programs.

Origins and Confusion

Was The Banana Splits a product of the same Sid and Marty Krofft that created the Hair Bear Bunch? While there is a distinct possibility, the elements of the show and the other characters mentioned are off. The Hair Bear Bunch, for instance, was a children's television program featuring a group of characters with unusual hair and were certainly not a band. Instead, The Banana Splits might be a product of the same visionary minds behind other whimsical and rather trippy shows of the era, such as H.R. Pufnstuf by the same producers.

Theme Song and Musical Elements

The show is perhaps best known for its catchy and trippy theme song. The theme starts with the repetitive and catchy "Tra la la tra la la tranya" and segues into a section that eerily sounds similar to Bob Marley's hit 'Buffalo Soldier'. The eerie similarity led many to wonder if Marley was a fan of The Banana Splits or if the producers were inspired by his music. The haunting theme isn't just a catchy ditty but a literally trippy melody that perfectly complements the show's symbiotic and surreal elements.

Visual Elements and Plotlines

Joining the cast of characters in the The Banana Splits were many zany and often surreal elements, like pies talking, sour grapes, and a 6-wheel buggy. One of the most bizarre segments included a parrot shouting “Piper Piper.” These visual elements are reminiscent of the psychedelic imagery of the 1960s and the drug culture of the era, suggesting that the show was not just a fun children's program but a reflection of a more altered and trippy mindset.

Impact and Syndication

The show was originally broadcast in syndication, meaning it wasn't a network staple but a hit in the middle of the day when families gathered for Saturday morning cartoons. Those who watched the show may only have caught a glimpse of it as it aired in the slot between other shows. The segments I watched from this anthology of shows might not have been part of the original package, suggesting a more playful and relaxed tone in the live segments involving The Banana Splits. Despite this, the live-action components, like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, brought a fun and goofy energy that could hold its own among the more surreal animations.

Conclusion

Of course, every viewer's memory is unique. What stands out is the mind-bending nature of the show and the echolalia of its theme song, making it a standout in the collection of 1960s and 1970s children's programming. While it may not have been a hit during its original run, The Banana Splits has certainly left a lasting impression, a mix of fun, surrealism, and psychedelic inspiration that makes it a beloved and memorable piece of 1970s media.